Introduction
Throughout history, embroidery thread has been used for a variety of purposes. However, when it comes to sewing, many people think they can use embroidery thread for sewing. Can it withstand the same tensions and stresses? Will it hold up against wear and tear?
You will find all the information we have gathered after testing and research in this article to help you decide whether embroidery thread can be used successfully for sewing projects.
This article is highly recommended if you want to get your answers.
Embroidery Thread Types And Uses
Two of the most commonly used types of embroidery thread for sewing are cotton and silk. Cotton threads are a popular choice due to their strength and versatility. They come in different weights, ranging from lightweight 60-wt to heavyweight 8-wt. Lightweight cotton threads are perfect for delicate designs and finer fabrics, while heavyweight threads work well for bold, thick stitches on heavy materials like denim or canvas.
However, silk threads are known for their luxurious look and feel. They add a touch of beauty to any embroidery project, whether it is a delicate floral design or detailed patterns on formal wear. Silk threads have a natural shine that reflects light beautifully; this makes them ideal for adding dimension and richness to methods that require extra attention to detail.
Many companies prefer using cotton embroidery thread for its reliability and affordability. It offers excellent color retention, so your embroidered designs maintain their vibrant hues even after multiple washes. It is also easy to find the right shade for your project because cotton thread comes in so many colors.
However, silk threads also have their place in specific industries, such as high-end fashion or custom-made garments, where quality is a priority. These industries commonly rely on silk due to its characteristic smoothness and lustrous appearance, which other threads cannot easily replicate.
I want to share more information with you about them.
General Embroidery Threads
General embroidery threads are often considered the most versatile thread for various stitching techniques. They are commonly made of 100% cotton, which gives them a soft and breathable texture. The great thing about general embroidery threads is that they come in different thicknesses, colors, lengths, and thread counts for the best smoothness.
The variety of thicknesses allows embroiderers to create different effects and textures. Thicker threads can be used for bold outlines or filling large areas, while thinner threads are perfect for intricate details or delicate stitches. A wide range of colors ensures a thread suitable for every project and creative vision.
Longer lengths of general embroidery threads make them particularly convenient as they reduce the need to change or join thread during stitching frequently. That not only saves time but also ensures smoother and neater embroidery work. The higher filament counts contribute to the overall quality of the thread by making it stronger and more resistant to fraying.
Satin Thread
Satin thread is renowned for its softness and silky-smooth texture. This type of thread is an absolute dream to work with. Whether you are a skilled seamstress or just starting, the satin thread is perfect for general stitching. It glides effortlessly through the fabric without causing any resistance, resulting in beautifully neat and precise stitches.
Its ability to create elegant and refined finishes sets satin thread apart. Its slight sheen adds a touch of glamour to any project, making it ideal for decorative stitching on evening gowns, bridal wear, or even home decor items like curtains or cushions. The delicate nature of organza or satin fibers used in its production also ensures that your stitches will have an elevated look and feel.
Embroidery Silk Thread
If you are a dedicated embroidery fan looking for longevity in your projects, silk thread is a must-have item. It is renowned for its superior durability over other types of embroidery thread. Silk thread remains stronger and thicker over time than traditional cotton or polyester thread, which is more likely to fray and break easily. This incredible durability guarantees that your beautifully crafted embroidery designs will last years.
A unique characteristic of silk thread is its thickness compared to other types. Thicker silk threads add dimension and texture to your embroidery and allow you to create bold and vivid designs. Adding weight to the thread creates depth and makes it stand out on fabrics, an effect difficult to achieve with thinner threads. If you design clothing, create wall art, or design decorative pieces, using thicker silk thread can take your embroidery work from ordinary to extraordinary.
Can You Use Embroidery Thread For Sewing?
Embroidery thread is mostly used for hand and machine embroidery but can also be used for sewing. The main difference between embroidery thread and regular sewing thread is the thickness and type of thread. Embroidery threads are typically made of cotton or rayon and shine higher than regular sewing threads.
Remember that it may be weaker than regular sewing thread when you use embroidery thread for sewing clothes or other fabric projects. Due to this, it is important to consider the weight and type of fabric. For heavy-duty fabrics like denim or canvas, I recommend using a stronger polyester or nylon sewing thread.
If you work on lighter fabrics like silk or chiffon, embroidery thread can add a beautiful decorative touch to your stitches. There are many vibrant colors available, and it is ideal for hems, seams, or decorative elements like buttons and zippers.
Try embroidery thread next time when starting a new sewing project. In your sewing journey, embroidery thread opens up endless creative possibilities, whether you want to add decorative stitches or pops of color to your seams. Just remember to adjust the tension settings on your machine accordingly and test the strength of the stitches before starting any major DIY tasks.
Can You Use Embroidery Thread For Quilting?
Is Embroidery Thread As Strong As Sewing Thread?
There are many similarities between embroidery thread and sewing thread, but their strength differs significantly.
Sewing thread is specifically designed to handle the stress and tension of machine sewing and can easily handle heavy-duty projects. Due to its decorative purpose, embroidery thread is generally finer and more delicate than other threads.
While embroidery thread may not be as strong as sewing thread, it still has its strengths that make it perfect for specific applications. Fine embroidery thread, for example, allows for detailed designs and fine details that can not be achieved with thicker sewing threads. The variety of colors and finishes available with embroidery thread enhances a project’s depth and dimension.
Combining embroidery and sewing threads might be the best option if you are working on a project that requires both strength and decorative elements. By combining their unique qualities, you can ensure both durability and aesthetics in your final product.
While embroidery thread may not have the same strength as sewing thread for heavy-duty projects or machine-sewn items, it offers greater creativity in decorative stitching. The type of thread you choose will ultimately depend on your specific project needs. You may choose one or both threads depending on desired finished look, durability requirements, or personal preference.
How Do I Tell The Difference Between Sewing And Embroidery Thread?
Sewing and embroidery are two different techniques of working with fabrics. While both require thread use, there are several differences between sewing thread and embroidery thread. A major difference between threads is their thickness or weight. Sewing thread is designed to be thinner and lighter, ideal for stitching together fabric pieces or creating seams. On the other hand, embroidery thread is often thicker and heavier, allowing for more detailed designs on top of fabrics.
A second difference is the composition of the threads. Threads used in everyday sewing are typically cotton or cotton polyester blends, which are strong and durable. For complex styles, embroidery threads are usually made from silk or rayon fibers to achieve a more luxurious look.
Last but not least, there are color options. Sewing threads usually come in a wide range of neutral colors that can match various fabrics nicely. Embroidery threads go beyond basic colors; they come in vibrant shades with metallic finishes, which allow them to make bold statements while adding dimension and texture to any design.
Both sewing and embroidery threads share some features due to their common purpose of working with fabric. Still, their weight, composition materials, and color variations set them apart. Understanding these differences is crucial if you’re stitching fabric pieces together or adding personalized touches to your creations.
Drawbacks of Using Embroidery Thread For Sewing
The following are a few reasons why you should not use embroidery thread for sewing:
1. Limited color options: Though embroidery thread is available in a wide range of shades, it still has the limitations of regular sewing thread color options. If you need precise color matching or want to experiment with unique shades, that can be a problem.
2. Tendency to unravel: Embroidery thread is generally thinner than standard sewing thread, which makes it more exposed to breaking during the sewing process. It can result in annoying snags and tangles, which save time and energy.
3. Less resilience: Sewing thread is more resilient than embroidery thread. It may break more quickly, especially when exposed to tension or strain, while delicately stitching heavy fabrics. It can be frustrating to replace broken threads because of this fragility constantly.
4. Limited availability in local stores: As it is common information that embroidery threads are easily accessible in online markets and specialty stores, finding them locally can prove quite challenging. Most craft and fabric retailers commonly stock standard sewing treads. Embroidered threads, on the other hand, need additional visits or shopping costs.
5. Limited applications: The limited strength and thickness capabilities of embroidery thread means that it may only be suitable for some sewing tasks, even though it adds beautiful decorative touches and complex patterns to specific projects such as embroidering pillows or clothing decorations.
Tips for Using Embroidery Thread for Sewing
1. Choose the right thread weight: Embroidery thread has different weights. Different projects require different thread weights, so choosing the correct thickness for your sewing needs is important. For bold and decorative stitches, thicker threads work better, while thinner threads work better for delicate and detailed stitches.
2. Use quality thread: The quality of your embroidery thread can make a big difference in the final result of your project. You may experience frustration and poor results using cheap threads that break or fray easily. High-quality threads will make your finished product look professional and last longer.
3. Testing Colors: Before starting any embroidery project, testing different embroidery thread colors on a small scrap piece of fabric is always a good idea. I will give you an idea of how each color looks on your fabric and helps you avoid any disappointments later on. You can determine which combinations work best for your design by testing different stitches with different colors.
t4. Preparing the thread: It is important to prepare your embroidery thread properly before stitching. If you want to reduce tangling and improve the strength of your sewing thread, run it through beeswax or a conditioner before sewing. If you are working with metallic or rayon threads that tend to twist or curl easily, keep them flat using a press cloth when ironing.
5. Proper Storage: It is very important to store your embroidery thread properly to ensure it stays in great condition. Thread can get tangled easily if not stored correctly, so consider storing them on bobbins or using plastic thread organizers to keep them neat and organized. Store your threads in a cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight to save them from fading.
6. Mixing Threads: Combine different colors or types of embroidery thread for various looks. Try combining metallic threads with regular threads for added shine and texture, or create unique shading effects by blending shades in one stitch line.
7. Use a Thread Stand or Spool Cap: You may need help using large spools of embroidery thread on your sewing machine’s spool holder if you use a large spool of embroidery thread. If you are sewing with an oversized spool, attach a spool cap, or a separate thread stand to avoid tangling and to achieve smooth thread flow.
8. Mind Your Bobbin Thread: There is nothing wrong with using extra bobbin thread for embroidery projects, but it is best to avoid doing so. Using lightweight yet durable bobbin thread for embroidery is ideal since the tension requirements are different from regular sewing. It will make your stitching consistent and eliminate issues like puckering and bunching.
9. Adjust Tension Settings: Adjust your sewing machine’s tension settings before beginning embroidery. Experiment with different tensions until you find the sweet spot where both upper and bobbin threads come together without appearing too loose or tight.
What Is The Best Embroidery Thread To Use?
Can You Use Polyester Embroidery Thread For Regular Sewing?
Polyester embroidery thread is typically thicker and stronger than regular sewing thread, so it may not work well for delicate fabrics or lightweight garments. The shine and texture of polyester embroidery thread may be more noticeable in regular sewing than in embroidery. That could be a factor to consider if you prefer a more refined finish.
Polyester embroidery thread can be used for regular sewing. Compared to other thread types, it is more resistant to fading and shrinking. That makes it ideal for items requiring frequent washing or sunlight exposure, such as outdoor cushions or children’s clothing.
It is possible to use polyester embroidery thread for regular sewing projects, but you must consider the thread’s thickness and shine. While it’s a great option for durable items or those needing extra strength, it is unsuitable for delicate fabrics.
Can Embroidery Thread Be Used For Hemming Pants?
It is possible to hem pants with embroidery thread. Embroidery thread adds a decorative and unique touch to garments, so many prefer it for hemming. Most embroidery thread is made from polyester or rayon, a durable, strong material. That means that it is perfectly capable of holding up the weight of a hem.
Hemming can be done with embroidery thread because it is available in various colors and options. It is easy to match the color of your pants or create a bold fashion statement by choosing a contrasting shade from the array of colors at your fingertips. Depending on the fabric and the desired look, embroidery thread comes in different thicknesses and weights.
To hem pants correctly with embroidery thread, ensure your sewing machine’s needle size and stitch tension are set appropriately, or adjust your hand-sewing technique accordingly. Remember that since embroidery thread is thicker than regular sewing threads, you may need to make adjustments to deal with this difference. By using embroidery thread when hemming pants, you can add an artistic touch and durability that will add style to any pair.
Can You Use Regular Sewing Thread For Embroidery?
Most crafters and DIY fans are curious if they can use regular sewing thread for embroidery. Before using what you have available, you should consider some important factors. Regular sewing thread is typically thin and less strong than embroidery thread, specially designed to stitch decorative designs. That can affect the finished look of your embroidery and the durability of the stitches.
Embroidery thread is made from multiple combined fibers, resulting in a thicker and more sturdy thread. Adding thickness to the thread allows details and complicated shapes to be stitched without compromising strength. On the other hand, regular sewing thread may not hold up as well under the stress of repetitive stitching or tension adjustments.
When deciding whether to use regular sewing thread for embroidery, consider the variety of colors available. With embroidery threads, you can add depth and dimension to your project with a wide range of vibrant colors. Regular sewing thread might limit your color options and produce a less visually appealing finished product.
Suppose you are planning to display or wear your embroidered piece. In that case, you should invest in high-quality embroidery thread whether you want professional-looking results or want to experiment with new techniques.
How Do You Sew With Embroidery Thread?
The following tips and techniques will help you achieve stunning results when sewing with embroidery thread. First, it is important to select the right type of embroidery thread for your project. Various options include cotton, rayon, silk, and metallic threads. Each thread has unique characteristics and is suited for different projects. For example, cotton thread is ideal for traditional embroidery designs on fabrics like linen or cotton.
After choosing your thread, select your sewing machine’s stitch length and tension. Embroidery stitches typically require a slightly longer stitch length than regular sewing stitches. Doing this allows you to create more defined designs and keep the fabric from puckering or pulling. You may need to adjust the tension for smooth stitching with embroidery thread.
If you are sewing with embroidery thread, use an appropriate needle size to prevent breaking or damaging the delicate threads. A smaller needle size (75/11 and 90/14) is commonly recommended for most embroidery projects. Use a sharp needle rather than a ballpoint one, as sharper needles will easily pass through the fabric.
How Do You Sew With Polyester Thread?
The polyester thread may not be the best choice for sewing clothing, but it has advantages. The fabric is resistant to fading, stretching, and shrinking. A polyester thread is also highly resistant to fungus and other forms of water damage.
Select the correct needle size before sewing with polyester thread. A smaller needle size will work better for lightweight fabrics and vice versa. It is important to note that polyester thread requires less tension on your sewing machine than cotton or other natural fibers. Be sure to adjust the tension accordingly before starting your project.
Using the correct stitch length when working with polyester thread is also important. Generally speaking, a longer stitch length works better with thicker threads like polyester, allowing them more space without causing bunching or puckering on your fabric. Ensure to briefly set your stitch length, as this may damage the stitching.
It is worth mentioning that polyester thread is less strong than cotton-based. You should reconsider using polyester thread if you are working on heavy-duty projects such as furniture covers or leather products. Because of its versatility and color retention properties, the polyester thread can be an excellent choice for lightweight fabrics and decorative stitching.
Conclusion
We have examined different factors that can you use embroidery thread for sewing and tried to resolve any confusion you may have had. We discussed the similarities and differences between embroidery thread and sewing thread, explored the potential uses for embroidery thread in sewing projects, and provided tips for successfully using embroidery thread in your sewing projects.
We have also highlighted some considerations to remember when using embroidery thread for sewing thread. With this detailed guide, you now understand the capabilities and limitations of embroidery thread for sewing purposes. Explore your creativity by adding embroidery thread to your next sewing project!