When you think about sewing, the first thing you need is thread. Without thread it impossible to sew. You can sew without a sewing machine but without a thread, you can’t. Whether it’s a traditional sewing machine or hand sewing machine or hand sewing project, sewing thread and the sewing needle are the must needed things.
Now the question is how to choose the best thread for sewing machine. There are multiple types of sewing threads available, which in the end confuse you. As a sewist you should have a basic knowledge of various types of threads. So that you can decide which thread to use for a particular fabric. if you have a proper knowledge on different types of threads, it will be easy for you to buy your required thread. So, before the the start, you must know the types of commonly used sewing threads.
Types Of Sewing Machine thread
Different threads are made from different types of materials. So, they are made according to that. The materials present in the thread gives it the strength, elasticity and other properties. There are also universal threads which can be used in most cases. So, lets see some most commonly used thread types.
1. Polyester Threads
Polyester threads are simply made up of polyester. There are also different types of polyester threads in the market. Polyester threads are the most commonly used sewing threads. It works in all sewing machine. It is very easy to work with polyester threads. These threads are strong and smooth. This thread is het resistant, recovers after extension and absorb very little moisture.
The polyester thread is long lasting. It doesn’t shrink after washing for a long time. Polyester threads can be used to sew any type of fabric including silk, upholstery etc. Polyester thread is like the all purpose sewing thread. One demerit of polyester thread is, it doesn’t take colour. You can’t dye the product after sewing. You have to choose the desired colour before sewing.
2. Cotton Threads
Cotton thread is made up of cotton. It is best thread for making delicate projects. It has very little stretch. So, it can not be used for stretching fabrics. The cotton threads goes through mercerization. Which changes the look and feel of the cotton fiber. After the cotton is mercerized, it becomes more lustrous and brighter in colour. So, this makes the cotton less resistant to frequent wash. Cotton threads are mostly used in quilting and patchwork.
3. Silk Thread
As the name speaks, silk thread is manufactured from silk. Silk thread is used for sewing silk. Silk can also be sewn by polyester threads. But if you want to dye a costume after sewing then silk thread will be a better choice than polyester thread. Polyester thread can’t retain dye at all.
Silk thread is smooth in texture and can retain vibrant color for long time, Silk thread is best for hand sewing and embroidery projects. It is mostly used in hand sewing projects. But you can also use it in machine sewing.
4. Linen Thread
Linen thread is made from linen. It is used in thicker fabrics because of its heavyweight. This thread is also extremely strong and is resistant to friction. So, it is best suited for things that will be under lot of stress. Linen thread is used for making bobbin lace, sewing lace, attaching bag straps, sewing buttons, leather accessories.
5. Rayon Thread
Rayon thread is manufactured using regenerated cellulose. Rayon threads have vibrant colors. It is best for machine embroidery.
6. Extra Strong Thread
Extra strong threads are made of polyester or sometimes from a mixture of polyester and cotton. It is like a heavier duty version of a general purpose sewing thread. If you are making something which will undergo extreme stress, then this extra strong thread is must to use. It is best for sewing heavy denim, cushion covers, upholstery, heavy tote bags etc.
7. Extra Fine Thread
Extra fine thread is made of a polyester. It is very thin and smooth yet very strong. It is used in hemming thin, delicate fabrics like cotton.
8. Elastic Thread
Elastic threads are made of polymer. These are thicker than normal thread and has more stretching capacity. It is also strong and durable. These types of threads are used in stretchy fabrics like jersy cotton, elastic waistband.
9. Metallic Thread
Metallic thread looks like metal because of its structure. This metallic thread is used for decorative sewing and embroidery. While using in machines you have to change the needle.
10. Serger Thread
Serger threads especially super strong and lightweight . These are specifically designed to withstand the tension and highspeed. Which will in turn protect the thread from breaking. They are smooth enough to move freely at such a high speed. These can be either in polyester or nylon.
How To Choose The Thread
After knowing the different types commonly used thread, now turn is to choose the correct thread. You can choose the thread on the basis of colour and thickness.
Choose the Thread According to Thickness
The sewing threads are of different weight and thickness. You can use thicker threads to sew thicker fabrics. The seams will be stronger. If the costume will undergo more stress and strain then thicker threads are better.
But if you are sewing using a sewing machine then you have to adjust the tension every time you change the thickness of the thread. Also for thicker fabrics, you need needle with bigger eye.
Choose The Thread According To colour
Another way to choose the thread is by matching the colour of the thread with fabric. Sometimes it will be difficult to get the exact colour, because not all fabric have an exact color match. If you fabric is having mixed colour with different types of pattern then you have to select that color which is more accurate.
Always take the fabric to the shop shop while buying the thread. It is not advisable to guess the colour. Also check the fabric in day light and match the color.
You will also find difference in color artificial light and day light.
If you find two different threads having similar color then always choose the darker thread as it will be less visible and will blend into the seam.
Choose The Thread According To The Material Of Construction Of Fabric
Polyester threads are “all purpose threads”. These are durable and can be used in almost all types of fabrics.
Cotton thread is good for the fabric made from cotton and linen. It can’t be used in synthetic fabric.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article helped you learn how to choose the best thread for a sewing machine. It is essential to maintain your thread by storing it appropriately. Keep your thread out of the dust and harsh sunshine to maintain quality. Breakage in your thread is likely to occur if it is outdated, lacks moisture, and is brittle. If you put the thread in the freezer for a few days, the moisture from the freezer should work its way back into the thread, rendering it more useful.
