Sewing Threads

Sewing Threads – Understanding the Different Types and Applications 

Whether you are sewing clothing for yourself, draperies for your home or making a quilt, the right thread makes all the difference. Consider the thread as the foundation or “skeleton” for your body of work. Without the right support (thread), your work will not withstand the rigors of repeated use.

Three Basic Types of Threads

Three types of sewing thread are available for your various sewing project needs – natural, regenerated and man-made. Natural fiber threads consist of materials harvested from vegetables and animals. For instance, wool, silk and hair like angora come from animals while jute, cotton and flax are derived from plants.

Regenerated materials for thread are primarily cellulose-based materials from wood or plant by-products that are re-worked by man. Rayon is a prime example of regenerated cellulose. While the initial components are natural, the extensive processing to turn the materials into thread and fabric are what keep them from being classified as natural.

Man-made materials consist primarily of mineral based threads and synthetic options. Mineral threads like glass and metal are primarily used for artwork, textiles and other specialty applications. However, synthetic choices like polyester, nylon, acrylic, polypropylene and polyurethane are mainstream. For instance, acrylic is popular if you want to imitate the look or feel of soft materials like cashmere in your sewing while nylon is a popular substitution for silk. Polyurethane-based materials like spandex are popular for stretchy fabrics like swimsuits and other body-conforming clothing. Polypropylene is primarily used for heavy-duty applications like rugs, draperies, upholstery and various outdoor projects.

How to Choose your Sewing Threads

The fabric you use for your sewing project will dictate the type of thread you choose. Match the type of fabric material with the thread material when possible, although you can use complementary materials too. For example, cotton material would warrant cotton thread although polyester would work as well.

Lightweight fabrics like chiffon and other sheer fabrics require a lightweight thread. General purpose thread is the most popular “weight” size and can be used for a variety of fabrics from cotton, silk, chambray and gingham to broadcloth, satin, linen and corduroy. A heavy duty thread may be necessary for heavier, thicker fabrics like denim, leather, felt, fake fur and upholstery material.

Choosing the color of the sewing thread is an important part of your project too. You do not want to pick a thread color that contrasts too greatly with your fabric, unless your intention is deliberate or part of the design. If the project uses a patterned fabric, there is typically either a background color or a color that is predominant in the material’s design. Select a thread color that closely matches that principle color. When an exact match is not available, the rule of thumb is to choose thread color that is the closest, only a shade or two darker.

Remember, the sewing thread you use can be the most important part of any project. It is the foundation for any clothing, curtains, quilts and other sewing-based work you produce. Choose the wrong kind of thread and you can not only compromise the integrity of the project but also alter its appearance.