7. Both can be great sewing options, but they are pretty different in terms of strengths and weaknesses. Polyester fiber is stronger than most natural thread, so over time, the stronger polyester thread can break the weaker cotton fiber of the fabric. Knot Strength: This term indicated how much load the thread can withstand when knotted before breaking. Polyester is your go-to everyday thread, it can be used on a variety of different projects for both hand and machine sewing. Totally true-nerd fact for the day. Thanks for sitting down with these two guys to get that sorted out. Cotton breathes better than almost any other fabric, including a poly-cotton blend. Hold a strand of thread up to a light and inspect how many fibers fan out from the strand. Polyester thread will burn with a clean, odorless flame, and the end will turn into a hard, round bead when it cools. The trick to thread selection is to choose the correct weight/thickness, fiber, and finish for your project. P: Suz, can I call you Suz? The higher grade of the raw cotton material, the smoother the thread will be. Cotton thread is a little bit stronger than polyester thread and a lot softer. The lack of stretch in cotton thread makes it ideal for quilting projects because it won't lose its shape. However, with low-quality thread, you'll see a hot mess of frizzy mayhem. Polyester is one of the fabrics which can be breathable and waterproof at the same time. Nylon: This synthetic thread is relatively inexpensive and easy to use. You wouldnt want to use this thread with very fine, sheer fabric or very heavy denim or canvas. These fibers, or staples, range in length from short (less than 1 1/8 inches), long (1 1/8 to 1 1/4 inches), and extra-long (1 3/8 to 2 inches). I sometimes get really bogged down with the information on various quilting blogs but yours is always my favorite to receive. Thanks for making me smile and think today! Im virtually lint free! Make sure to frequently clean your machine when using athread with this type of finish. All the places that the thread travels have a purpose in maintaining the sewing machine's tension. I came across yours lovely site by chance because I was looking up on what was the difference on types of thread as I hv always used Poly thread and never cotton even though I hv cotton in my sewing box they are left unopened much to my dismay after 25year . For best results match thread fiber type with fabric fiber type. Dripping off burning or melted parts. Wool thread is commonly used during hand needlework, but specially designed, fine wool threads can be used in machines. Available from Garnet Hill. Its low maintenance, durable, long-lasting, and relatively inexpensive. It doesnt shrink and can accommodate a small amount of give with good recovery. The one issue with the burn test is that a lot of all-natural fibers or even semi-natural threads will burn in the same way that cotton does, irrespective of whether or not it is 100% cotton. The most popular thread used in serger sewing machines is Polyester thread because of it's strength, durability and flexibility. However, it is more subject to runs and pulls. Cotton thread (or any thread that's made from natural fibers, is weaker than some other types of thread. A light-weight cotton fabric can usually be sewn with a standard sewing needle and normal sewing thread. And yes, Im a bit stretchy, but you know what thats good for? Sometimes I recommend products, and if you click on those links, I may earn a small commission. Cotton Count is the number of strands that are 840 yards long that it takes to equal 1 pound. Nylon melts easily (only use low setting when ironing), especially if it isnt bonded. However, a high-quality wool thread is expensive. So ,I would say Thank you. The thread provides excellent coverage so that the entire raw edge is hidden. Thanks! I didnt realize they had so much to say. You have to know which of these systems is being used, or your thread sizes can be off by a factor of . Anyway, when I told him in my very bad Arabic that I needed 100% cotton, he proceeded to show me how to tell the fabrics apart using the burn test. Machine Embroidery Needle. Just starting to quiltok, right now just in the process of gathering fabric, then will take the plunge. Clothes! 1.) That strengthens me and makes me extra shiny before getting wound tightly around a cone. I sew garments, not quilts, and have just switched to cotton thread. 50/2 means Number 50 thread composed of 3plies. This is one of the ways Im able to support myself and continue writing free content. Clever and informative writing, Suz! Polyester thread is a synthetic all-purpose thread. Did you hear that ladies?? Cotton/polyester: Strong but has the matte look of cotton. It sounds like both of you have had some pretty life-changing experiences. The Ideal Seam Align Gauge and the IdealRead More Ideal Seam Gauge and Ideal Seam Guide, The BladeSaver Thread Cutter is a fantastic accessory to add to any sewing room. Nylon and polyester both are often used to create nylon bonded thread - a favorite amongst sewing enthusiasts and upholsterers. Sooo clever! But, much of the thread Ive had for years is poly or a cotton-poly blend: your interview didnt go into blends: what do you think? The most common thread size is 350D that is used for general stitching. Depending on the density, and the number of threads, the water-resisting properties of polyester increase. While cotton is a natural fiber, microfiber is made from synthetic materials, typically a polyester-nylon blend. Love your PI skills! Used to sew accessories. A burn test is performed by setting a small piece of fabric on fire, monitoring the flame as it burns, and inspecting the ashes after the flame is go. The fingers run softly over silk fabrics. This number is saying that the weight of 9000 meters of x thread is equal to 225 grams. By finishing the thread, its given protective properties, allowing it to better withstand heat, water, and tension. Linen: Usually too thick for garment sewing. Pay close attention to the thread fiber make-up to determine how it will perform on your fabric. I had heard of the burn test also but couldn't remember which one shrivelled up!!! It can either remain soft (untreated) or be treated with a special finish to increase its performance and appearance. Fabric weight is measured per surface area. Let me continue the strong bands are combined to make a narrow, even, high-quality fiber. I did a quilt for my daughter about 20 years ago the only thing that us coming undone is one of the stitching at the ends which looks like the material is wearing. However, take all measurements with a grain of salt and use your own experience and judgment. Lucky for you I'm a part-time P.I. But do you really want to sleep with a petroleum product? Both can be great sewing options, but they are pretty different in terms of strengths and weaknesses. Thanks for the verification, I asked the same question at a favorite quilt shop and was told the same thing. Embroidery thread is more decorative in appearance when compared with regular sewing thread. You need to get out more, girl, if youre talking to your thread! So clever! I am piecing a quilt top, i am ok using poly thread aint i? If the thread breaks, it's too old to use. Thread weight is used commonly for embroidery threads. For example, you may see a thread marked as Den 225. In speaking with other seamstress I find that 50 weight polyester cotton blend thread is the most commonly used thread, for most project types. The larger the number, the heavier/thicker the thread. To correct this, reduce the density by one-third or increase the design size by 125% of the original. Embroidering thread is typically shinier, with more vibrant colors, and is available in more textures than sewing thread. You make reading a seemingly uninteresting topic into the funniest and easy to understand thing I have read in a long time. The quilt will likely be washed again. However, if there is no label, carefully burning the thread end in a well ventilated area works for identification purposes because Polyester thread melts, it doesn't burn. He took bits of several fabrics and lit a match to each one then showing me how the cotton and polyester blends melted and partially burned and the way the cottons burned into ash. Womp womp! I do know that the lower the number, the thicker the thread. Totally unobtainable . It is a good choice for most machine and hand sewing projects. When you use good-quality cotton thread, your stitches will be strong enough to hold the garment together. Fantastic. Denier: How many grams do 9000 meters of x thread weigh? Cotton Thread is both soft and strong. The burn test is one of the easiest ways to determine if a fabric is 100% cotton. Before you sew metallic thread, read our tips and tricks for sewing metallic thread. Because there is such a lack of consistency and no agreed-upon industry standard, thread companies often go by their own rules. Polycotton is such a cotton blend that is made of cotton and polyester. Even though it has been around a while, it does have its drawbacks. Yet, they still label the thread as 40wt. But there is nothing suspect about the fiber itself. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Or seen 40/3 printed on the spool and wondered, what does that mean? Its confusing because different brands will use different measuring methods. There are key differences between cotton thread and polyester thread. You may have also seen thread measured as No. To do this, carefully light the end of the thread with a match or lighter and observe the way it burns. Thread, Garland Quilt Sew Along: Week 2 Cut Fabric, The Best Way to Prepare Fat Quarters for Quilting, Garland Quilt Sew Along : Week 1 Pick Fabric. Always work in a well ventilated areaespecially important if testing synthetics. The most common response I hear from students is something is wrong with the thread or - horrors! The thread size is measured based upon the individual size or strand. You may even find that you like it more. Lucky for you I'm a part-time P.I. It can either be twisted in a Z direction (left twist) or a S direction (right twist). In fact, Im extra tough because I was born and raised in a factory. Even 100% polyester fabric can't be 100% waterproof until it has been treated with water repellents or it is coated with a layer of extra fabric. Burn some threads from the finished product. Polyester thread is less likely to shrink when compared with cotton thread. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. You know someone had to ask why not me? Pima Cotton Percale Sheet At 280 thread count, this is an excellent option for everyday standard sheets. Ability to ignition. Texture: Polyester thread is smooth and fine, with a consistent texture. The floats will be in the weft direction, i.e., continuous weft yarn, with as few interruptions of warp as possible. Take a few fibers and hold them against a flame. Cotton has a natural moisture regain of 8.5% under normal temperature and humidity conditions. Wool and silk, on the other hand, do not burn in the same way as pure cotton. Cotton is breathable, gentle enough that it won't scratch surfaces and very inexpensive to purchase. Several brands of embroidery threads are available for use on standard, simple home sewing machines. Indeed, you are correct. What Is The Difference Between Cut Glass And Crystal, What Is The Difference Between Copper And Brass. I think we get the picture. Youll often see threads described as 2-, 3-, and 4-ply. Singer All-Purpose Thread 3. Polycotton is such a cotton blend that is made of cotton and polyester. Yikes. Connecting Threads 100% Cotton Thread 5. Thread goes bad for the same reason why many things go bad: exposure to the elements. Cotton, a rumour thats been swirling around sewing circles is that you tend to be a little inflexible. It smells like burning paper and leaves grayish ash without signs of melting. Also, Polyester thread is less likely to shrink when compared with cotton thread. Great article!! It can be overwhelming when you realize how many different types of thread are out there. Ply: This is basically a strand of yarn. You are so imaginative. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Yikes!!! Wrinkle Resistant Sheets Made of a cotton-polyester blend, these wrinkle-free sheets are an affordable investment. Required fields are marked *. P.S. Gassed: This type of finish uses high heat to reduce the amount of fuzz and lint created by the thread. Your email address will not be published. This was amazing. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This process also preshrinkscotton thread. Metallic Thread: Metallic thread is used to embroider and sew decorative topstitching. Although the tip of the needle dulls by repeatedly penetrating a fabric, friction causes any thread to wear out the eye of the needle. Its highly elastic and soft. Thank you very very much for that lovely lovely write up ,Suzi on the interview with Cotton and Poly it gives me a bit of confidence that my work with Poly has been a good choice after all. Hahahahaha! Popular quilting thread brands are Aurifil and King Tut. Are there any parting words youd like to share? Whether youre a newbie or seasoned sewist, theres sure to be something for you to enjoy. Using overlock thread on a regular machine, however, is not recommended because it isn't strong enough for most sewing applications. If you are worried about added shrinkage, go with the poly thread. Twist Direction: The direction the thread is spun defines its twist. Contrary to an old weaver's myth, embroidery thread can be used for top stitching on a sewing machine. With experience preferences change but for starting out you can't go wrong with a good polyester cotton blend thread. Many manufacturers use corespun thread comprised of a polyester core wrapped in cotton. Embroidery Thread: This term includes machine embroidery and hand embroidery thread/floss. However, cotton thread is not advisable to be used on a knitted or stretchy type of fabric. Silk is washable, lint-free, and comes in a variety of weights. For instance, if 1000 meters of thread weighs 25 grams, then the thread will be listed as Tex 25. Threads made from rayon, cotton, polyester, silk, etc. Choosing the correct thread for your project starts with knowing the basic properties of thread and the options available. 2.Staple: Polyester staples resemble the staples used to make cotton yarn, and like cotton staples, polyester staples are usually spun into a yarn-like material. You can use normal thread in a serger machine but it's more expensive and will run out more quickly. Its then divided to achieve the desired thickness (when the user is ready to embroider). Wool will wick away moisture, but once its saturated, it loses much of its strength. Each boll contains approximately 250,000 fibers. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. However, it doesnt hold color well and will yellow over time when exposed to sunlight (unless specially finished with UV-resistant properties). Cotton may be a bit more durable under the heat of fast sewing, but I make waaaay less lint. This creates a smooth finish and improves performance. - You can use a thicker, "fancy" thread on top and a 50/60 basic thread in the bobbin. I do know that 1860s polished cotton isn't a chemical treatment at all - the polish was a result of literally polishing the fabric with rollers. Just feel me! Textured Filament Thread: If youve ever used wooly nylon, then youve used textured filament thread. Silk is often used in fine tailoring, fine embroidery, sewing on buttons, and when finishing the edges of buttonholes. Oops. It should not feel rough or uneven. The trick to creating the most stretch is to hover your steam iron over the sewn elastic thread. Quilting Thread: Generally, quilting thread is either cotton, polyester, or a blend of both. Ever wonder what's the difference between cotton and poly thread? . I also love using the rayon variegated threads for decorative stitching and wish more were made with cotton or poly as my machine does not always like the rayon thread. :D, For Vintage & Antique Machine Enthusiasts, Offline Events, Announcements, Discussions, Cotton or Cotton/Poly telling the difference. It can easily be engineered to resemble cotton, silk, and even nylon. 2.) It prevents weeping seams and is resistant to mildew. Long story short, some brands borrowed measurements from other brands, not realizing it was an entirely different measurement technique. . Anti-wick: This finish helps the thread repel water. The takeaway here is that you want the thread tenacity to match the fabric strength or slightly weaker. It is a good choice for sewing garments and other items that will be washed frequently, as it can withstand the heat and agitation of the washing machine. Simply take a lighter to a loose thread, cotton will burn away to ash while polyester melts down to a plasticky nub. Now that you know how the thread is weighed, lets talk about how its strength is determined. This makes it ideal for visible seams in your projects. Polyester Properties Polyester is hydrophobic. Silk Thread This very fine silk thread is used perfectly for sewing on silk fabric. When used properly, metallic thread is beautiful and is always worth the extra effort. A deeper look at the difference between nylon and polyester thread will help you make the best selection for your project. Your Guide to the Best Sewing Thread 1. Also, polycotton or polyester do not absorb moisture as well as cotton will. This makes it ideal for visible seams in your projects. Yes, Joy, the owner should be able to tell you if its cotton. New brothread Embroidery Thread 7. It is a good choice for sewing items that will be exposed to sunlight or other sources of UV light, as it will not fade or discolor over time. New brothread Metallic Embroidery Thread 8. Cotton thread is great for sewing other plant-based fabric, like linen, cotton, and rayon. HELP, can cotton, cotton batting and polyester plush for backing be combines? Hahaha Suzy love this. How do you identify cotton? A thread can be monofilament (basically, one long ply) or composed of multiple filaments (2 or more plies). Thread sizes ranges from 30 to 60; embroidery threads are also numbered differently than other threads. Threads with a count between 120 - 160 are considered fine, but threads with a cotton count between 22 - 34 are considered coarse. As a result, regular sewing thread is generally stronger and more durable than embroidery specific thread whether it's cotton or polyester. For instance, No. Happy sewing! The name Cotton Count originated before polyester came into use. Im tough. Simple methods for identifying fibres are the burn test and microscopy identification (identify cotton, flax (linen), wool and silk or synthetic fibres). We have all been there but the most likely culprit to your dilemma is the wrong size needle that is paired with the thread you are using. Color: Polyester thread often has a glossy or shiny appearance. Set the machine to an upper tension of 4. 2. Cotton thread is a little bit stronger than polyester thread and a lot softer. Thank you!! I love the wit and humor you brought to the table with this post, Suzy! Invisible polyester thread is also available and is an ideal choice for some projects. Your skin will most likely clear up within a few weeks. Two-ply towels are a bit more durable than one ply. But as the times and technology change, even so, does sewing thread. #threadtest #howtotellifthreadiscottonorpolyester #howtosewQuick way to test if thread is polyester or cottonAmazon link is an affiliated linkMy amazon store. Bonded Nylon is very strong and comes in a variety of weights. All the threads I hv used in my life has been Gutermann thread. Cheers . Last week I got the chance to sit down with both Cotton and Poly Thread. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Maybe *Im* not always the problem! A torn seam is much easier to repair. There are four main thread characteristics to take into account when sewing: Threads are either made of natural fibers, like cotton, wool, silk and linen, or they are made of synthetic fibers, like rayon, polyester and nylon. You could use them for machine quilting, but I think you will find 100% cotton thread to feel softer after a few washes. Synthetic fiber. Waxed Thread: This thread is usually multi-filament and is coated with wax to give it water-repelling qualities. The strength (tenacity) of cotton is 3.0-5.0 grams/denier when dry. And I'd like to educate myself on the advantages of each kind of thread (for hand-stitching purposes). In this Threads Essential Techniques video, we demonstrate how to burn swatches for two common fabric types: silk and polyester. Before you buy or use thread for your next project, a look at the different aspects of thread quality will make your crafting experience better. Is it OK to use polyester thread on cotton fabric? There are a number of other advantages to polyester thread: As stated earlier, cotton thread has been used since the dawn of human existence. For this reason, polyester fabrics don't absorb perspiration, or other fluids, leaving the wearer with a moist, clammy feel. How can you tell the strength of sewing thread. Upholstery thread and Heavy Duty thread are not necessarily the same, although you may see them used interchangeably. This creates a stronger, more durable thread. Clear Thread: Also called Monofilament and Continuous filament thread, this type of thread resembles a very fine fishing line and is useful when you want your stitches to be invisible. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Print this page Previous Tips & Tricks Rayon: Rayon is plant-based and is known for its beautiful shine and vibrant colors. There are many degrees of cotton quality. These are used for machine embroidery with rayon, polyester, and even cotton machine embroidery threads. Suitable bobbin thread. Some sewing projects require a specific thread type, such as nylon or cotton thread, but most do not. Embroidery thread is made from a variety of fibers, rayon being the most popular due to its high sheen and affordability. Polyester thread will not cut cotton fabric, even after more than 50 years, so yes, you can use polyester thread on cotton quilts. We recommend using a Jean Needle and choosing classic gold or blue-grey hues. You'll use this thread about 95% of the time. If you use chlorine bleach, it is important to dilute the bleach properly. Stretch: Polyester thread has some stretch to it, but not as much as nylon thread. Through the process of modifying petroleum, I showed up to the thread manufacturer as hard chips, which were then spun and loosely drawn together into long polyester filaments. Burnt silk has the odor similar to that of burnt human hair. You may also see thread measured in Denier. This measurement is determined by how much 1000 meters of thread weighs in grams. The most popular thread used in serger sewing machines is Polyester thread because of it's strength, durability and flexibility. Cotton also holds up under heat better than polyester thread, so if you're a speed quilter who puts the petal to the metal, cotton will hold up under the heat of fast friction. You commonly see this thread used in sailing and other outdoor hobbies. We recently tested a 1,400 thread count cotton/polyester sheet set that uses one of these techniques and (not surprisingly) it wasn't a top performer. Because so much thread is used, serger thread is wound on large cones with about 2,000 to 3,000 yards of thread. Due to this, polyester will rise to the surface showing as little hard bobbles on the surface of the fabric, looking shabby and feeling uncomfortable. Move the dial a notch if 4 is not getting you good stitches. Thread weight selection has been made simple, match the rating on it's label with that of the fabric's rating. However, there are times when you may need to or may want to experiment with different types of thread. 1. you have dry or sensitive skin, or. If teachers everywhere taught like you do, it would be more enjoyable and wed all be smarter! Hey Suz, which can be used to make bowl cozies, cotton or polyester thread, with cotton fabric? The purpose of a finishing thread is both practical and decorative. For natural fabric, cotton thread with a Polyester core works extremely well. Ive been doing a lot of reading about quilting books and the general concensus seems to be: use cotton thread if youre quilting with cotton fabricplease clarify: ok to use a cotton/poly blend while sewing quilty with cotton? Ill take the comfort of natural cotton any day! For smooth stitches while sewing at high speed use Nylon thread treated with a friction reducer. P: When it comes to quilting, Im a great companion for piecing. A Z twist is suitable for single needle sewing machines. Some sewing projects require a specific thread type, such as nylon or cotton thread, but most do not. When should I use polyester thread? Most labels on spools or cones of cotton thread do not specify the staple . After the thread has been spun, it needs to be given a finish. Cotton: My story is probably one youve heard before. If it burns, but turns to ash, it's cotton. Metallic needles have elongated eyes, allowing metallic and other specialty threads to pass through with minimal friction, thus decreasing thread breakage. This is usually around size 40 and can be made from polyester, cotton-wrapped polyester, or cotton. Just because I dont like to get mixed up with spandex, rayon and other party-loving fabrics, doesnt mean I dont have great things to offer. And so funny! Well touch base on the 5 common measurements. Cotton-wrapped polyester can be used effectively on synthetic and natural fiber fabrics because it combines the best qualities of polyester and cotton. You can learn more about thathere. Cotton fabric should be sewn with cotton thread, polyester or manmade fiber should be sewn with polyester thread.

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