Why Choosing High-Quality Thread Matters More Than You Think

Thread may not seem to be the most significant of sewing notions, but thread quality makes a bigger difference than many people realize. You likely already know that the color of the thread you choose enhances your finished project in many ways, from highlighting details to complementing fabric shades. However, the quality of the thread can impact the entire piece, regardless of color.

High Quality Thread Matters

High-quality thread doesn’t always mean high-priced, either. When you know which qualities to look for in a thread and why they matter, you can feel confident making a great selection at any price point.

Better Sewing Machine Function

Low-quality thread puts strain on your sewing machine and all of its components. Thread that is too light or too heavy for the fabric it’s being used with can unbalance your machine’s tension. This type of strain causes more wear and tear on parts. It could result in a need for more frequent servicing and repairs.

Good thread produces less lint than thread of poor quality. Less lint means less debris is being deposited in the machine’s hard-to-reach moving parts. Minimizing this buildup helps prevent mechanical problems and keeps your machine running smoothly.

Fewer Snags and Breaks

Whether sewing by hand or using a machine, nothing stops the creative flow like dealing with thread breaks. The disruption is more than inconvenient, as broken thread can tangle in moving machine parts and cause damage. Snags and breaks may also cause skipped stitches and compromise the quality of your work.

Choosing the sewing notions that are best suited to your sewing method and project can make the entire process of sewing more productive and enjoyable.

Higher-Quality Finished Projects

Whether you are just learning to sew or you are an experienced sewist, you want your stitches to be neat, even, and secure. Great sewing skills come with practice, but good sewing notions are also important.

Because it affects sewing tension, low-quality thread can weaken the look and security of seams. You may have more difficulty sewing pieces together neatly with low-quality thread, while wobbly seams and crooked corners lead to poor construction and lower the quality and usability of your finished project.

Faster Success for Beginners

Learning to lay out and cut patterns correctly, follow sewing directions, and master a machine that requires your fingers to be near a sharp, rapid-fire needle is no small feat. Beginning sewists should be proud of themselves for taking on the task, even if their early projects aren’t perfect.

Still, the right thread can be of particular benefit to new sewists. Using a high-quality thread can make learning to sew a less frustrating experience and help beginners create better projects.

Commonly Used Types of Thread

Before looking for signs of quality, it’s important to know which type of thread works best for your sewing project. Some of the most common options are cotton, polyester, and silk.

Cotton Thread

Cotton thread is made from twisting natural cotton fibers. The quality of the thread depends on the quality of the cotton. Egyptian-grown cotton is considered the highest quality because it provides long, stable cotton fibers.

When it comes to looks, cotton thread has a matte finish, which is appealing for sewists who prefer a classic or heirloom look. For example, quilters typically prefer cotton thread over polyester materials. Cotton also has the minimal stretch that some fabrics may call for.

Just keep in mind that cotton can shrink when washed, which can cause puckering in the stitches.

Polyester Thread

Polyester is a synthetic material that offers more strength and durability than cotton. It is made by wrapping polyester filaments, but there are several different styles of wrapping, each of which can affect thread quality.

Polyester thread provides some slight stretch to help prevent puckering and breakage and holds up well in garments that need frequent washing. Polyester also produces less lint than cotton and can help reduce sewing machine maintenance.

This type of thread comes in a variety of brilliant colors, making it a great choice for machine embroidery and other decorative sewing techniques.

Silk Thread

Another option is silk thread. This thread is delicate and generally more appropriate for fine fabrics and couture sewing, such as appliqué work and hand embroidery.

What to Look For in High-Quality Thread

It’s essential not to rely on price alone to determine which sewing notions are right for your project. Here are some specific traits that can help you choose the best quality thread.

Durability

Thread that seems dry or brittle won’t be very durable. Discoloration is also a warning sign that the thread may be old or made from low-quality materials. Look for a thread with a good color that feels strong when you tug on it.

Stretch and Recovery

Polyester thread stretches best, but even cotton should provide some flexibility. Avoid thread that breaks or weakens when you tug it slightly.

Finish

Some threads are made with special finishes for specific uses. When needed, look for thread that is water-repellant, fire-retardant, or anti-static.

Thread Composition

The method of composition refers mostly to polyester thread. Corespun polyester, also known as poly-wrapped, is a high-quality thread known for strength, stretch, and good stitchability. Filament polyester is made from twisting long strands of polyester fiber together. It is strong, though not as strong as corespun, and does not produce lint.

Monofilament polyester thread, on the other hand, is a single strand of fiber. This fine thread may call for tension adjustments. Spun polyester is made from shorter fibers and is one of the least expensive options, but it may produce high levels of lint and is more apt to snag or break.

Find Premium Sewing Notions at GoldStar Tool Today

It may be tempting to reduce your sewing budget by purchasing lower-quality thread and other notions, but quality really does matter. Poor thread can affect the performance of your sewing machine and the overall quality of your finished project.

GoldStar Tool carries a wide selection of premium thread and other sewing supplies at affordable prices. Visit us online today for all your sewing needs.