The A-Z Guide to Sewing Machines: Threads

The selection of different types and makes of threads available can be rather confusing. However, most threads fall into one of the following categories:

Basic types

• 100% Polyester thread Widely acclaimed, this was introduced as a ‘sew all’ fabrics thread, but since then some of the old favorites (such as cotton and silk) have been reintroduced.

• 100% Cotton thread For stitching pure cotton.

• Silk thread For silk fabrics. It is surprising how thick this thread looks.

• Cotton polyester thread Another useful thread which can be used on mixture fabrics, e.g. polycotton.

Special purpose threads

• Machine embroidery thread Some makes are still numbered and some give you a choice of thickness in each colour — the lower the number the thicker the thread.

• Rayon and viscose threads -- These are suitable for embroidery and give a lovely shiny finish to the stitch. Some makes of thread come in multicolor, one colour merging into another colour on the same reel. Other reels have dark shades flowing into lighter shades of the same colour.

• Metallic threads -- These can be used on the machine, but I would choose a smooth thread in preference as they break and fray less easily. When using metallic thread on a garment wind normal thread on the bobbin. If you have problems with metallic threads breaking, try winding the metallic thread on the bobbin and sewing the work upside down.

The numbers denoting the thickness of the thread have, in general, been dropped as threads have become thinner and stronger, purpose made for fast machining. There is, however, a strong thick thread still produced for quilting and top stitching.

Cheaper threads of good quality are now coming onto the market from the Far East and the US — yet despite their price they generally sew well on the machine.

NOTE: When using metallic thread on a garment wind normal thread on the bobbin, because metallic threads can irritate the skin.