Choosing Machine-Embroidery Threads

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Threads Magazine, editor

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Metallic thread gives these dragonflies their glitter.

David Page Coffin

Rayon embroidery thread comes in a wide range of solid and variegated colors,

David Page Coffin

Polyester embroider thread won't shrink, fade, or bleed.

David Page Coffin

Metallic thread gives these dragonflies their glitter.

Photo: David Page Coffin

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	Polyester thread.

Polyester embroidery thread—Popular and economical for embroidery, polyester thread provides an effect similar to rayon and comes in various colors. It won't shrink, fade, or bleed, so it's great for children's clothes. Rayon thread has a slightly higher sheen than polyester thread, but the two are interchangeable and perform similarly without breaking or fraying. When they're combined in a single design, it's hard to tell the difference.

Polyester thread is economical and colorfast, even holding up to chlorine bleach. Brands include Coats America Sylko, Isacord, Janome (acrylic), Madeira Neon, Mettler Poly Sheen, Robison-Anton Polyester, Sulky Poly-Deco, and YLI Ultrasheen (acrylic).

	Cotton thread.

Cotton embroidery thread—Cotton thread is often overlooked for use in automatic embroidery machines. However, it performs beautifully and has a lovely, soft sheen. It's available in weights up to a very fine 100, which is considered heirloom quality. But finer threads tend to be weaker, so 30- or 50-wt. cotton thread is more appropriate for machine embroidery because it's stronger and provides better coverage.

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Comments (4)

moogiemaw writes: just ordered brother P770 .This sight is very helpful in trying to decide what kinds of thread to ues. I have been sewing for over thirty years but never had an embroidery machine. I am very excited about this new adwenture. So much to learn!!!!

Posted: 5:31 pm on January 4th

Tajba writes: can anyone comment on rayon ameth embroidery thead?
Thank you
Posted: 4:15 pm on August 25th

leslieinlewes writes: I am brand new to embroidery. I just purchased the Brother SE 400 and will get it in about a week. I already have projects lined up. I love the dragonflies at the beginning of this forum. Can you tell me where I can get the design?

Thanks!
Posted: 10:49 am on March 30th

Mcat1227 writes: I have been doing machine embroidery for a long time...this article is a great refresher since there are so many more beautiful thread options out there. Thank you!
Posted: 10:19 pm on September 3rd

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