The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for operating a thread-processing machine having a thread-cutting device. In order to provide a method and a corresponding apparatus for operating a thread-processing machine having a thread-cutting device, which achieves improved results with increased operational reliability in comparison with known apparatuses and methods, it is proposed that the processed product (3) is covered with an articulated or flexible protective element to protect the surface of the sewn product in a region around a thread (2) which is to be severed only after the thread-processing operation is ended, and the thread-cutting device (4) is moved onto a cutting point and is positioned for cutting relative to the protective element.