Nahtende

Nahtende is a term used in textile crafts to denote the termination point of a seam—the location where stitching ends and the fabric is finished to prevent unraveling. The word is derived from German Naht, meaning “seam,” and Ende, meaning “end,” and it appears in German-language sewing manuals and patterns. In English-language sewing contexts, the concept is commonly described as the seam end, seam termination, or finish at the end of a seam.

In practice, the Nahtende is secured to lock the stitching in place. Typical methods include backstitching a few stitches at the start and end of the seam, or using an equivalent tie-off technique. Some projects employ a reinforcing stitch inside the seam allowance or a short securing stitch on the seam line. Finishing at the Nahtende may also involve overcasting the raw edge, applying a small zigzag, or trimming and finishing the edge to reduce bulk, depending on fabric type and construction.

Variations in handling the Nahtende arise from fabric type (woven versus knit) and the intended stress on the seam (garment joints, hems, or decorative seams). In some historical or couture contexts, the end of a seam may be concealed within the seam allowance or finished with additional bindings to achieve a clean appearance.

See also: seam, seam allowance, backstitch, overcasting, serging, finishing techniques.