Are you curious about the types of sewing threads? This article will educate you about the kinds of threads used in sewing. Every thread is used for specific fabrics. Using of thread depends on the variety of projects.
There are many sewing threads on market. All these threads are not used in every project. Some sewers don’t know which thread they should use in their project. Here we will cover some types of threads and inform you where to use them according to the project.
Types of Threads According to Projects
Here we come with some types of sewing threads with their usage. These types are given below.
- Cotton Thread
- Silk Thread
- Rayon Thread
- General-purpose Thread
- Wooly Nylon
- Polyester
- Extra Fine
- Bobbin fill Thread
1. Cotton Thread
Cotton thread is made from spun cotton. Usually, cotton is a kind of fiber that is obtained from plants. It is durable and doesn’t break easily. But it is not strong as polyester. This thread is used for crafting projects if these projects don’t go under stress.
Where should you use it?
You should use it for the following purposes.
- Loose-fitting garments or accessories
- Machine quilting, for a more rustic, matte look.
- Sewing a cotton fabric that you plan to tie-dye.
- Clothing Construction.
2. Silk Thread
Silk thread comes from cocoons of silk moths. It is used in hand sewing machines without creating any hassle. It can be used for many projects due to its vibrant color and lustrous nature. Using silk thread is the better option for sewing.
Where should you use it?
Silk is the better option for sewing and you use it for the following;
- Hand embroidery and thread painting.
- Machine sewing delicate silk fabrics like gauze or chiffon.
- Hand or machine quilting (in both the top and bobbin).
- Any hand-finishing – buttonholes, hand-sewn hems, and whip-stitched seams.
3. Rayon Thread
Rayon is commonly used in embroidery machines for embellishing projects. It is manufactured from viscose filament. It has an appearance similar to silk. Some types of rayon thread are expensive. It is used for designing.
Where should you use it?
Rayon silk is used for the following purposes;
- Not suitable for construction seams.
- Machine embroidery.
- Decorative stitching on pockets or hems.
- Quilting projects that need a decorative shine.
- It can be used as a less expensive alternative to silk thread.
4. General-purpose Thread
General thread is commonly used in hand sewing machines for general sewing. General thread is 100% polyester and you can buy it in every color. It is durable and easily flexible. It is easily available in the market.
Where should you use it?
General thread is used for many purposes;
- Sewing construction seams on garments or quilt tops.
- Fabrics from silk gauze through to denim or mid-weight canvas.
- Hand sewing machine.
5. Wooly Nylon
Wooly thread in textured nylon which has some stretches. It is used for all kinds of knits. Wooly thread is made of multiple threads holding them together. It is the best choice for overedge seams. Wooly nylon threads are of many types.
Where should you use it?
Wooly thread is used for projects;
- Swimwear and baby clothes
- Flatlock seams for active-wear
- Needle and bobbin thread in a regular sewing machine for knits
6. Polyester Thread
Polyester is usually a general-purpose thread. But polyester has many kinds. It is the best option for most machines and hand sewing projects. It is used for decoration and designing and works well on stretchy fabrics.
Where should you use it?
Polyester is used in these projects;
- Machine embroidery.
- Decorative stitching or embellishment.
- Embellishing children’s clothes with decorations that need to be durable.
7. Extra Fine Thread
Extrafine thread is 100% polyester that is very strong, smooth, and thin. It is the best option for quilting and its types. It runs well on fabrics during sewing and designing.
Where should you use it?
The extra-fine thread which is polyester used in many projects;
- Delicate, lightweight fabrics like chiffon or gauze
- Buttonholes, seam finishes, and decoration on lightweight fabrics.
- Topstitch lightweight blouses and shirts
- Piecing, applique, and quilting
8. Bobbin fill Thread
It is very similar to an extra-fine thread and a lightweight stitch that uses for decorative stitches. It is durable and strong. Bobbin thread is very thinner than general-purpose thread.
Where should you use it?
- Machine embroidery or quilting, only in the bobbin
- Sewing delicate, lightweight garments, in both needle and bobbin
- In the loopers of your overlocker for a finer, more delicate-looking finish
Tips for using Thread in Sewing Machine
There are some valuable tips that assist you in using thread in machines. These tips prevent the machines from thread jamming.
- First, you should use suitable threads.
- Always trim the end of the thread.
- Highlight the eye of the needle to assist you in inserting the thread.
- Hold the thread so close that it increases the chance of inserting.
- Don’t allow those who don’t know how to insert.
- Use better quality that doesn’t break during sewing.
- Keep an automatic needle threader that helps you in an emergency when the machine needle does not work.
Conclusion
There are numerous types of sewing threads. All these threads in the market confused the sewers. Using thread in a sewing machine is necessary. Every sewing project requires a specific type of thread. Some of the threads are not good for sewing as a result they break during sewing and create a hassle for sewers. All these tips and threads we have mentioned above assist you in choosing a better thread.
