When you’re selecting thread for a sewing or embroidery project, it’s important to pick the right type for the job. Sewing thread and embroidery thread are designed for different purposes, and using the wrong type can cause problems like weak seams, thread breakage, and skipped stitches. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain the differences between sewing thread and embroidery thread so you can choose the right option for your project.
Types of Thread
Thread is made of spun fibers, which can be either natural or synthetic. Natural fibers include cotton, linen, wool, and silk. Synthetic fibers include acrylic, polyester, and rayon. Cotton, polyester, and rayon are the most common types of thread used in sewing and embroidery.
Sewing Thread
Sewing thread is designed to be used on a sewing machine to join two pieces of fabric together with a stitch. It’s usually made of polyester, although cotton and rayon are also used. Sewing thread is usually sold in spools, cones, or pre-wound bobbins. Polyester sewing thread is strong and durable, and it can stand up to washing and dry cleaning without shrinking or fading. It’s also resistant to UV light, which makes it a great choice for outdoor projects.
The thickness of sewing thread is measured in weight, which is expressed in a unit called a “denier.” The higher the denier, the thicker and stronger the thread. Sewing thread ranges in denier from the very light (about 10 denier) to very heavy (about 80 denier).
Embroidery Thread
Embroidery thread is usually made of rayon or polyester, although some specialty threads are made from other materials such as silk or metallic. It’s designed to be used with a hand-held embroidery needle or an embroidery machine. Unlike sewing thread, embroidery thread is usually sold in skeins, which are bundles of thread that are twisted together. It’s also sometimes sold in spools, cones, or pre-wound bobbins.
The thickness of embroidery thread is measured in a unit called a “tex,” which is a measurement of the thread’s linear density. The higher the tex, the thicker the thread. Embroidery thread typically ranges in tex from the very light (about 15 tex) to the very heavy (about 120 tex).
Differences Between Sewing and Embroidery Thread
The primary difference between sewing thread and embroidery thread is the weight. Sewing thread is usually heavier than embroidery thread, with a higher denier or tex. This is because sewing thread needs to be strong enough to hold two pieces of fabric together securely, while embroidery thread only needs to be strong enough to be stitched through fabric without breaking.
Sewing thread also has a higher twist than embroidery thread, which means it has more fibers twisted together in each length of thread. This makes it stronger and less prone to fraying. Embroidery thread, on the other hand, has a lower twist, which means it’s smoother and less likely to create bulk when stitching.
Another difference between the two threads is the finish. Sewing thread is usually finished with a wax or silicone, which helps it slide through the fabric more smoothly and reduces friction. Embroidery thread, on the other hand, is usually finished with a dye, which helps the thread retain its color. This is important for embroidery, as the thread needs to be colorfast so it doesn’t fade or bleed.
Choosing the Right Thread for Your Project
When selecting thread for a sewing or embroidery project, it’s important to consider the weight, twist, and finish of the thread. Sewing thread is usually heavier, with a higher denier or tex, and it has a higher twist and a wax or silicone finish. Embroidery thread is usually lighter, with a lower denier or tex, and it has a lower twist and a dye finish. For best results, choose the right thread for your project.
