What Type of Thread Do I Need?

You can’t exactly choose what you don’t know anything about, right? The same goes for threads.

When you don’t know the different types of thread available, it would be impossible to choose.

The truth is, there are many threads out there, and sometimes I find it overwhelming too, so you aren’t alone. But the trick to knowing the type of thread you need is to select the right thickness and fiber for your project.

There is the “all-purpose polyester thread,” and it works for almost all types of sewing, but you need to be creative once in a while.

With that in mind, let’s look at the different types of thread for your sewing projects.

The Famous All-Purpose Thread

The famous isn’t exactly attached to the name; I love to call it that because it’s the most common of threads. And it’s not even difficult to see why. This thread can be used for 98% of the when doing any sewing project because it works well with almost all fabrics.

The texture of this thread is between the thickness of “heavy duty thread” and “light embroidery thread.” I will explain more on both types of thread.

The all-purpose thread is perfect for quilting, edge stitching; you name it. However, there is a “but,” I don’t use this thread for heavy denim or sheer fabrics. Sewing projects that would need to withstand direct sunlight regularly do not require this type of thread.

Heavy Duty Thread

Just like the name implies, you can use this thread for sewing projects that would withstand direct sunlight, intense heat or tension regularly. It comes in different weights and finishes, and your pick would depend on what you want to sew.

For instance, when sewing heavyweight fabrics such as canvas, you should go for a heavy-duty thread, which can withstand high tension better than other threads.

Embroidery Thread

Embroidery thread is made from different fabrics, but the most common of them is “rayon,” due to its affordability and sheen. However, “polyester embroidery thread” is currently stronger and more colorfast than rayon, so you may need to think twice about which to go for. There are other embroidery thread fabrics that you can use as well, such as cotton and silk.

When sewing lightweight projects, you should either use silk or rayon embroidery and for heavyweight sewing projects, polyester embroidery thread works best.

Jean Thread

When sewing jeans or denim, you might want to use the “all purpose thread,” but do you know that the jean thread is slightly thicker and would be a better option?

To make the work easier for you, use a jean needle with classic gold hues, and get the perfect look.

Quilting Thread

Quilting thread is either made of polyester or cotton and in sometimes a blend of cotton and polyester. It is treated with sodium hydroxide to increase its luster and affinity to dye.

Quilting thread should be used primarily for quilting because it doesn’t damage the fabric when it passes through it. And you can also make use of machine quilting thread to do hand quilting.

Clear Thread

You may know this type of thread as a continuous filament thread. It looks very similar to the fishing line, and if you are looking to achieve the invisible look, then you should go for this. When doing upholstery or quilting, you can use the clear thread, but keep in mind the weight of the fabric you are using.

A quick tip: When sewing on light fabrics, use a clear thread, and for dark fabrics, a tinted continuous filament thread would be best. If you decide to use your machine with a clear fabric, make use of a metallic needle and thread net.

Elastic Thread

Due to its high elasticity and rebound, it is perfect if you want to gather and shirr your fabric. To get it done professionally and give a more stretch look, hover your steam iron across the already sewn elastic thread, but be careful not to touch it directly with the iron. This would cause the thread to shrink and, as a result, form more gathers without losing its elasticity.

Read more on our different thread finishes here.