How to Wind Thread on a Spool For Embroidery
Embroidery floss, or embroidery thread, comes in a looped shape known as a skein. Floss generally comes with six strands wound into one thread. Many embroiderers prefer to use only three strands for a more subtle look to their needlework, and once the floss has been separated into two parts, it must be wound onto a spool so that it won't become tangled. Winding the floss onto a spool makes it easier to work with as well as easier to store.
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Instructions
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Remove the labels from the skein of floss. Keep the labels as you will need the numbers on them for reference.
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Cut the floss into 12-inch lengths. Embroidery floss is easier to work with if it is shorter, so 12 inches is an ideal length to work with.
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Grasp the end of one cut length of floss. Roll the floss in your fingers until the strands begin to separate. Separate the strands into two sets of three, and begin to pull them apart. The floss may begin to curl up, but it will let go once you have pulled the ends to the point where it begins to curl. Set the two strands aside when they are completely separated.
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Use a pen or fine-tipped marker to mark the color number on the end of a floss spool. The spools are flat pieces of cardboard shaped like a fat dog bone. There is room on either end designed for writing color and project notes.
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Hold the floss spool in your left hand. Place one end of the floss over the middle of the spool. Hold the floss securely with your left thumb. Use your right hand to wind the floss length around and around the middle of the spool until the length is completely wrapped. Wind the second strand of floss around the spool in the same manner as the first.
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Continue separating strands and winding them on spools until you have finished the skein. The strands that you wrap later will cover and keep secure the loose ends from earlier-wrapped strands.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have more than a few spools of embroidery floss, you may purchase a case designed to hold dozens of these flat spools.
Some projects may specify one or two threads in the strand instead of three. Read your pattern directions before winding the entire spool.
References
- DMC-USA: Getting Started: Embroidery
- Brenda Quandt, 35 year embroiderer, Lincoln Park, MI
