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Thread
To achieve quality stitches, a sewing machine needs three things: correct
thread, correct size needle, and properly adjusted thread tensions. Poor
quality or the wrong type of thread can cause inferior stitches on any
machine. Inferior thread results in crooked and looped stitches, puckered
seams, frayed thread, and/or needle breakage. Did you know that thread
passes through the eye of the needle approximately 37 times in a
“seesaw” action before it forms a single stitch?
Long staple threads are stronger and smoother than short staple threads.
(Staple refers to the length of fibers used to twist together to form a single
ply). Most bargain-priced threads are usually short staple and will deposit
more lint and fuzz into your sewing machine, potentially causing tension
inconsistencies and possibly even damage to your machine over the long
term. Using long staple threads also result in less snagging and fraying
as you sew.
Ply refers to the number of strands twisted together to make a single
thread. The number of plies are usually indicated by a number after the
weight of the thread such as 50/3, which means a 3-ply, 50-wt. thread.
The lower the weight, the heavier the thread; conversely, higher numbers
indicate fine or lightweight thread.
Fibers
Fiber refers to the type of material
used to produce the thread.
Polyester
Good for clothing construction on
man-made, natural or blended fab-
rics. Tolerates high temperatures.
Polyester embroidery thread has a
high sheen; excellent for embroidery,
very abrasion resistant.
Cotton 2 ply
Mettler 60/2; excellent for French
heirloom stitching, delicate machine
embroidery, piecing and darning.
Mettler 30/2; loose twist for a soft,
shiny look in machine embroidery,
appliqué, and buttonholes.
Mettler 50/2; excellent for clothing
construction on natural fibers. Tighter
twist than embroidery cotton thread
and less puckering on problem fab-
rics. Cotton thread stretches less
than polyester.
Rayon
A lustrous embroidery thread; weaker
than cotton, it is used for decorative
work only.
Silk
Used on silk and wool fabrics, this
strong, lustrous fiber is good for
construction and decorative details
such as buttonholes. Also used for
quilting as it blends into the fabric.
12 wt.— Couching, bobbinwork
30 wt.— Embroidery, bobbinwork
40 wt.— General construction, quilting, embroidery
50 wt.— General construction, piecing, bobbin thread
60 wt.— Lingerie, heirloom, appliqué, bobbin thread
80 wt.— Extra-fine lingerie, heirloom
Guidelines for Thread Weights
The exercises in this work-
book are designed to be sewn
with Mettler thread. Use one
of the following in any color
of medium value:
•
Metrosene Polyester
•
Silk-finished 50-wt. cotton
