Choosing Machine-Embroidery Threads

comments (4) November 2nd, 2008 in tools & supplies, embroidery

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Special-effect embroidery thread—There are numerous special-effect threads, from a fuzzy acrylic/wool-based variety, which creates an old-fashioned crewel-like effect, to fluorescent neon threads. Some threads change colors when exposed to sunlight, and others glow in the dark. If you have performance problems with any of these threads, follow the special handling techniques discussed next.

Brands to consider include Madeira Fluorescent Neon, Madeira Hologram, Superior Threads NiteLite, Superior Threads Sunspot, YLI Glo-Bug, YLI Monet (acrylic-wool), YLI Reflections, and UV Threads.

Mail-order sources for machine-embroidery threads

Fabric Loft of New England PO Box 43 East Hampton, CT 06424 860-365-0102

Herrschners Company 2800 Hoover Rd. Stevens Point, WI 54481 800-328-3894 www.threadsnow.com

Joanne's Creative Notions Plus PO Box 44030 370 Main St. North Brampton, ON L6V 4H5 Canada 800-811-6611 www.joannescreativenotions.com

Nancy's Notions 333 Beichl Ave. PO Box 683 Beaver Dam, WI 53916 800-833-0690 www.nancysnotions.com

Web of Thread 1410 Broadway Paducah, KY 42001 800-955-8185 www.webofthread.com

Special handling tips
Some embroidery threads have a reputation for being difficult to work with. Breakage during stitching is a common problem, and it's tempting to blame the thread. But, more likely, a few slight adjustments to your sewing machine can make a big difference. Of course, sewing machines vary, but these handling tips should help you deal with most stitching problems.

First, let's talk about tension. Whenever you try a new thread, check your machine's upper tension by sewing a 3-in.-long row of zigzag stitches on a scrap of the same fabric you plan to embroider, stabilizing and hooping it properly (for details on stabilizing and hooping, see Machine Embroidery: A Marriage of Fabric and Design by Lindee Goodall). The correct tension for machine embroidery should be slightly unbalanced, with a tighter bobbin tension, so the needle thread only shows on the surface, pulling slightly to the underside. If the needle thread totally covers the bobbin thread on the wrong side, the needle tension is too loose.

posted in: tools & supplies, embroidery, embroidery, thread

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