Replies

1. 
   barbara_gordon | Sep 07, 2001 09:08pm | #1

   *
   Great idea for a science project, Jenny.

   In my experience, silk thread is supposed to be the strongest, rayon the least strong. As for polyester thread, cotton thread, or poly/cotton thread, well, I'd be interested in the results of your research.

   How are you planning to conduct the test? What method will you use to determine the strength? When you're finished, can you post your results here?

   Thanks and good luck!

   Barbara

1. 
   silkscape_ | Sep 11, 2001 04:50am | #2

   *Ths is very interesting, jenny! I have never used silk thread. Polyester is definitely harder to break with your hands! It also has more stretch than cotton which can mean stronger seams since it'll stretch farther before snapping.Let us know what you find out. There are magnified images of different kinds of threads on the following site if you are interested:http://sewing.about.com/library/weekly/aa102100a.htm?once=true&

1. 
   Frances_Kavanagh | Oct 02, 2001 11:13pm | #3

   *Hi jennyCotton is a natural fibre. natural fibres have a different breaking point to man made fibres such as polyester. This is why you should never sew man made fabrics with cotton thread. The fibres in the fabric stretch with your movements but the cotton thread will reach its breaking point before the manmade fibre is fully stretched and the seams will just burst - it can be quite dramatic. I remember in the early 1960's when lots of new manmade fibres became available factories produced clothing from the fabric without developing new thread to sew it with. I bought several items which literally fell to pieces after one or two wearings - a whole seam would disintegrate and the garment had to be returned. Needless to say new polyester threads were developed pretty quicklyI hope this helps and good luck with your project.