The Best Kind of Sewing Thread to Use

The best thread for the job depends on the fabric being used.

A wide variety of threads is available on the market. Each thread is designed with a specific use in mind. To decide which type of thread will work best for your sewing project, first determine the type of fabric being used. Knowing which threads work best with which fabrics is the first step toward determining the best thread for your project.

General Purpose

For sewing with light- to medium-weight cotton, rayon and linen fabrics, a medium-thickness cotton thread is the best option.

For sewing on silk and wool fabrics, a fine silk thread is a good choice. The elasticity of the silk thread makes it the best choice for knit materials as well.

The strength of nylon threads works best on light-to-medium synthetic fabrics, including nylon tricot. For an all-around thread that is suitable for most fabric types, the all-purpose polyester thread will often do the job.

Heavy Duty

The coarseness of cotton, polyester and cotton-wrapped polyester threads make them ideal choices for sewing on heavier fabrics, such as heavy vinyl and leather coating. These types of threads are also a good choice when using upholstery fabrics.

References

• The Artful Crafter: Choosing the Right Thread for Your Sewing Project