Number of times you pierced the thread when threading for saddle stitch?

[caressofsteel]

I do one piercing. I have tried more but not found any benefit to it. I use 1.8mm chisels, 0.6 to 1mm tiger thread and significant tension, so if I do not pierce the thread, the needle will slide right off the thread before I get ten stitches in.

[Outfitr]

I hand stitch a LOT and use tiger thread almost exclusively. I pierce once about 3/4" up from the end pull it down to the eye and stitch away.