Rayon Vs. Polyester Thread

Rayon and polyester thread are used in embroidery.

Crafters can choose from rayon and polyester thread to use in their sewing projects. For both machine and hand-embroidered projects, rayon and polyester thread each have different advantages and purposes.

Appearance

Rayon thread has a high sheen and appears shiny without looking metallic. It comes in many colors, including solid and multicolored varieties. However, rayon thread does not hold color as well as polyester thread after repeated washings and time. Polyester thread comes in flat but bright colors and keeps the same color even after multiple machine washings and heavy use.

Strength

Although rayon thread has a soft texture, the smoothness does not detract much from its strength, and it rarely breaks in a sewing machine. It comes in a wider variety of weights, or thicknesses, than polyester thread. Polyester thread has more tensile strength than rayon because it is slightly elastic. This makes polyester thread a common choice in highly used and laundered garments.

Uses

Since polyester thread holds up better under chemicals, heavy use and multiple machine washings, crafters use it for everyday projects such as swimsuits, uniforms and other garments. The shine and smooth texture of rayon thread make it the choice for home décor projects and fine garments.

References

• Red Rock Threads: Embroidery Thread
• Threads: Choosing Machine-Embroidery Threads
• All Stitch: "Knock Down, Drag Out... Emroidery Thread Co-Existence"