You’ve chosen the fabric, and you’re ready to start stitching but check to see if you have the right thread for the job before you do. When sewing, it’s important to choose the right thread since it can greatly affect the finished result. So, how to choose the best thread for a sewing machine?
In this article, we will talk about sewing threads and how to select the type of thread that is most suited for the project you are working on at the moment.
It could be challenging to select the thread for sewing machines that would be optimal for your project due to the abundance of different kinds of threads now available on the market. It is not sufficient to select a color that goes well with the fabric; you will also need to consider the fabric’s properties, such as its weight or flexibility.
It is well worth your time to select the best thread for sewing because doing so will significantly affect both the pleasure of stitching and the outcome of the work you are doing. If you take the time to do so, the appropriate thread will significantly affect both the pleasure of stitching and the outcome.
Picking the right thread
The general rule is to use the same type of thread as the fabric if you are working with a slightly different fabric, such as a stretch or heavyweight fabric. Even though an all-purpose thread for sewing machine will work well on most materials, the general rule is to use the same thread type as the fabric, even though an all-purpose polyester thread will perform admirably on most materials.
Therefore, if you are sewing with one hundred percent cotton fabric, you should use thread that is likewise made of cotton that is one hundred percent, and you should match the weight of the thread to the weight of the fabric. There will be times when your instructions or sewing pattern will offer you advice on the type of thread that you should use. One example of this would be when you are stitching a buttonhole.
Choose perfect thread for sewing machine that is one to two shades darker than the cloth if you cannot find a thread that is a perfect color match for the fabric. This is because a lighter thread will be more obvious unless you try to draw attention to it.
Look at your spool
It is common practice to indicate both the weight of the thread and the number of piles, which refers to the number of strands twisted together on the end of the thread spool. This information is essential if you need an additional thread at a later point and decide to go out and get some.
This is often denoted with two numbers: the first number denotes the fineness of the thread, while the second number specifies the thickness of the thread. This is another key point on how to choose best thread for a sewing machine.
How to choose which color of thread will work best for your project.
When working with a fabric of a single color, choosing the appropriate thread color is quite simple. You only need to choose a color that will go well with the color of the cloth you are using.
The general guideline is to choose a color darker than the cloth. If you select a shade lighter or brighter shade, the stitches will be more noticeable against the cloth. That is not what you desire at all.
But what if it’s a patterned fabric with several colors, like plaids, tweeds, or prints? In that case, what do you do? Determine the hue by seeing what is located close to the seams. You can select a thread that either matches the fabric’s background color if that color is dominant in the fabric or the color of the pattern that is the most prominent in the cloth. Learning about the different types of threads will help you find the perfect thread for the sewing machine.
If you do not want the opposing color to be noticeable on the patterned fabric, you might need to select different thread colors for the various regions of the cloth. When you buy the thread, make sure to have the cloth with you.
Sometimes a thread in a color that contrasts with the cloth you’re working with is required. A contrasting colored thread is typically utilized when topstitching to create a visually interesting appearance. To have an appealing appearance, a complementary hue is also utilized.
What kind of thread should be wound onto the bobbin?
In most cases, one will use the same thread for both the top thread and the thread in the bobbin. For machine embroidery, on the other hand, we have the option of using a specific bobbin thread of lighter weight to prevent a thick stitch from forming on the bottom of the work, which is especially important when working with fragile, thin textiles.
Because the two pieces of cloth that are being sewn together will typically be of the same color, the color of the thread that is used in the bobbin will almost always be the same as the color of the top thread. This is because of how sewing works and why you need to learn how to choose the best thread for a sewing machine.
If, on the other hand, we are combining materials of varying colors, we will select to spin the bobbin in a color that is complementary to the fabric that is on the underside. The top thread will be on the side of the cloth that is facing away from you, and the bobbin thread will be on the side that is underneath.
You will need to take into consideration the fact that a tiny portion of the thread that is wound around the bobbin will be visible from the top on the right side, particularly if the contrast between the colors of the cloth is particularly strong.
It is important to match the thread to the type of fabric. Fabric made of cotton paired with thread made of cotton; synthetic fabric paired with thread made of synthetic material, etc.
If you are about to begin a large sewing project, it is imperative that you remember to fill out a number of bobbins with the matching thread. It is not recommended that you pause the flow of your stitching to wind bobbins.
Different types of thread for sewing
There are many kinds of thread, and you can categorize them in various ways depending on the materials used to make them. Within each of these categories, you’ll find a variety of thicknesses and strengths.
Cotton-based filaments or threads
Cotton thread does not stretch much, making it the best thread for sewing machine for delicate craft projects, particularly when combined with cotton fabrics or sheers. On the other hand, its inability to maintain its shape should not be utilized while working with elastic materials.
The vast majority of cotton thread is mercerized, which denotes that it has been treated with a series of chemical treatments that improve the sheen of the thread and make it more absorbent of both water and color. Because of this, there is now a lower chance that it will run.
A mixture of polyester and nylon woven threads
These are strong, and yet they have a degree of flexibility to them as well. They typically contain a wax or silicone coating, which lowers the amount of friction the thread experiences as it moves through the fabric. This is accomplished by the thread’s ability to glide more easily.
This thread is versatile enough for knits and synthetics, both of which are elastic fabrics. In addition, cotton-wrapped polyester thread is suitable for use with the vast majority of different kinds of cloth.
Special threads
Again, the thread content of your fabric should be matched to the thread content of the various materials from which the thread is manufactured, such as silk. This will ensure that the fabric has the desired appearance.
Sew-all thread made of polyester
This thread made of 100 percent polyester may be used for various projects, is offered in a broad variety of color options, and is readily available. It may be stitched by hand or on a sewing machine, and it is compatible with most types of cloth. Because of its durability and elasticity, knit textiles can benefit greatly from using this material. Needle size: 70-90.
Repurposed thread
This ecologically friendly thread is crafted from one hundred percent recycled polyester, as shown in the central image. Because it is just as robust as polyester thread and has the same amount of elasticity, it is suitable for the same tasks. It makes it one of the best thread for sewing machines. It is made from recycled PET bottles, and one bottle yields around one kilometer of material. Needle size: 70-90.
Topstitching thread
Thread for working topstitching This thread is made of 100 percent polyester and is ideal for working topstitching since it is very durable and can be used to create a beautiful finish. It stretches well and has a glossy appearance that is reminiscent of silk. Because this polyester thread is thicker than regular polyester thread, you will need a larger needle to work with it. Needle size: 100-120.
Extra-strong threads
When it comes to sewing upholstery and other soft products, the heavy-duty polyester thread is the ideal choice. In addition to being able to withstand ripping and abrasion, it may also be used with materials that have a densely woven structure, such as leather. Knowing about different fabrics will help you know how to choose best thread for a sewing machine. It is also perfect for seams that will be put under a large amount of pressure, such as those seen on work pants or jeans, and this type of seam may be found in both garments. Needle size: 70-100.
Cotton 30
Cotton thread is available in a wide range of weights depending on the manufacturer. Cotton 30, which has a little higher thread count than regular cotton, is an ideal choice for machine quilting. This is because it is somewhat more substantial. It is commonly applied in machine embroidery because it produces a unique stitching line. You may get it in solid colors or in hues that fluctuate from one another for decorative effects. Both options are available for purchase. Needle size: 80-90.
Cotton 50
It is one of the most common sizes and also one of the best thread for sewing machine. Because it is cotton with a medium thickness, it can be used to manufacture a wide variety of textiles, ranging from lightweight and medium cotton to heavier linens. This is because of cotton’s versatility as a material. Although it is a delicate and elastic thread, you cannot use it for knitting or stretching textiles since it has little give. Needle size: 60-80.
Silk threads
Silk thread, which is both fine and strong, works very well for sewing on both silk and wool. Silk threads are great for tailoring because of their smooth and delicate nature, preventing them from creating holes in the fabric they sew through. This makes them particularly useful for stitching seams. It also makes an ideal option for ornamental topstitching due to its gloss. Needle size: 80.
Jeans thread
This is a heavier-weight thread for sewing denim and producing or mending jeans by hand or machine. It may also be used for mending jeans. The thread is also very durable and is one of the best all-purpose threads for a sewing machine. You should be able to locate it at any place selling sewing supplies. Depending on how you employ it, you may overlock seams, create straight seams, or topstitch them. It all depends on how you utilize it. It comes in jean hues, and a bicolor thread can also be used, which blends in nicely with the denim. Both of these options are accessible. Needle size: 80-100.
Metallic threads
Metallic threads are typically utilized in the process of decorative machine embroidery. You could use metallic threads if you wanted to. The majority of the time, they are made utilizing a mixture of polyester and other forms of artificial fibers, such as polyamide. Because they come in such a broad range of colors and finishes, ornamental stitching may benefit greatly from their use. Needle size: 100-110.
Elastic thread
Elastic thread is also known as shirring thread because it is used for collecting or “shirring” cloth. Elastic thread is also known as shirring thread. Although it is available in various colors, the thread is only utilized in the bobbin. To get the desired tension, it must be wound by hand. Since the elastic thread will be seen on the reverse side of the cloth, it should be coordinated with the fabric’s color.
Invisible threads
This is a fine and flexible thread that is soft, strong, and smooth, and it does not melt when ironed. It is among the best all-purpose thread. It is positioned above the center. It is perfect for projects in which the stitching has to be strong but hidden, and it is available in both dark and light colors so that it may be matched to any type of cloth. It is possible to use it as either the top thread, the bobbin thread, or both. Needle size: 60.
Overlock threads
Because overlocking requires more thread than regular seam stitching on a sewing machine, they are coiled on huge cones before usage. There is also a type of thread known as translucent thread, a thinner semi-transparent color thread frequently used for blind hemming. Needle size: 60-80.
When choosing the thread for your sewing machine, it is important to keep the following in mind:
- For the best results with your sewing job, you should steer clear of the discounted thread sold at the nearby store and go for a branded, high-quality option instead. A seam that is not strong should not be present in your clothing.
- When you go shopping for thread, you should always have a large sample of the fabric with you, and this is especially important if the cloth has a pattern or design.
- Purchase an adequate amount of thread to finish your sewing job. One spool of thread is often sufficient for most shirts and skirts. You may need two for dresses and maybe even more for gowns with intricate details.
- Always have a thread on hand, and keep it in simple colors. It is more practical to purchase these colors on larger spools. As discussed previously, wound numerous bobbins in the color you desire before starting to stitch to minimize interruptions.
- Before beginning to sew, check to see that the thread has been correctly threaded through the machine. If you don’t do it, you’ll end up with a broken thread and frustration.
- When choosing thread, the sort of cloth you’re working with is one of the most crucial aspects to consider. When working with sheer or fragile textiles, use a thread with a finer diameter, such as silk or embroidery. For other purposes, you can use general-purpose threads or different sorts of threads.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article helped you learn how to choose the best thread for a sewing machine. It is essential to maintain your thread by storing it appropriately. Keep your thread out of the dust and harsh sunshine to maintain quality. Breakage in your thread is likely to occur if it is outdated, lacks moisture, and is brittle. If you put the thread in the freezer for a few days, the moisture from the freezer should work its way back into the thread, rendering it more useful.