Types of Hosiery Thread

Threads make up all forms of hosiery.

Hosiery is any garment that's worn on the feet or legs. These garments are sometimes referred to as leg wear. Hosiery garments include socks, stockings, pantyhose, tights and knee-highs. There are many threads used when making hosiery items. The type of thread used depends on the type of garment being made.

Cotton

Cotton is used for making socks and tights. It's a soft fiber that's heat-resistant. Cotton is used in yarn and in thread form during the sock-making process. It was one of the first threads used in garment making and has been used for thousands of years, the Hosiery Association reports. Cotton thread is easily washed, durable and lasts a long time. Most socks on the market are made from cotton or a mix of cotton and other fabrics.

Wool

Wool is also used for making socks. It comes from the wool fibers from sheep, goats and llamas. Wool is woven into yarn and thread. Soft to the touch, wool socks help keep feet insulated and warm on a cold day. This type of sock also helps prevent the feet from sweating on a hot day. Outdoors equipment retailer REI reports some types of wool even help reduce foot odor that is caused by sweating.

Nylon

Nylon thread is used in the production of pantyhose and knee high stockings. It is a man-made fiber that was introduced in 1938, according to the Hosiery Association. Nylon was the first synthetic fiber, and is made by combining water, coal and air. Garments made with nylon thread don't cause abrasions when they are repeatedly rubbed against the skin. Nylon thread is durable, easily washed, quick-drying and can stretch far without breaking.

Polyester

Polyester threads are used when making boy's and men's dress socks. It's used for stitching the seams of the sock and any decorative designs. Polyester is durable, easy to wash and fast to dry. It doesn't leave abrasions on the skin. Polyester thread can be easily dyed.

Elastic

Elastic thread is used during the production of some hosiery garments, including socks. The elastic is thin and long. It usually has a rubber core. The elastic threads are woven through the cuff of the sock. This is the area where the foot is inserted into the sock. The elastic thread helps the sock keep its shape and fit snug around the ankle or leg. When the elastic breaks, the sock loses its shape.

References

• The Hosiery Association: Glossary of Terms
• REI.com: How to Choose Wool Clothing