What thread should you be using?

With so many types of thread out there, as a beginner it can be super confusing and choosing the wrong one can yield disappointing results. So we'll be highlighting some key points on what to look out for when choosing thread for your next project. 

The three most important thread types you need to know as a beginner is Cotton,Rayon and Polyester. 

Cotton Thread

Cotton Thread is mostly used by quilters looking to incorporate natural fibers into their quilt. This thread has a lovely soft sheen to it. Some recommended brands are Aurifil, Madeira Cotona, Madeira Tanne, and Mettler 100% Embroidery Cotton. You can choose between a 30wt, 50wt and a very fine 100wt thread. The higher the number the finer the thread.

Rayon Thread

Rayon thread is by far the most commonly used thread, it's what we at StitchDelight are using too. What makes this so popular is the fact that it's available almost anywhere, trouble tree performance on high speed industrial embroidery machines and of course it's stunningly high sheen. You also get rayon in a HUGE variety of colours, in variegated and even a new 'twist' form where two or more solid colours have been twisted together to form a single strand. These are all great to experiment with and can add loads of dimension to your designs. As for weights on this thread, the most common weight used is 40wt, although you can choose from a 30wt up to 100wt. We recommend Marathon Rayon as this is what we've been using for over 20 Years! Another Recommended make is Madeira. Other brands to look out for are: The Finishing Touch, Gütermann, Isafil, Megasheen, Mettler Silky Sheen, Mez Alcazar, Robison-Anton, Scansilk, Signature, Sulky, and Sulky Ultra Twist.

Polyester Thread

If you're someone that does a lot of commercial stitching or simply looking to go that route then this is the thread for you. A tad more expensive but most definitely worth the extra pennies as this thread is does not shrink, it won't fade or bleed. Making it the perfect choice for use on Kids clothing that will be subjected to harsh laundying, Hotel linen and garments, even onto bags, shoes and any other garments/materials that will be used outdoors and in harsh cleaning conditions. These are also available in different weights with 40wt being the most commonly used. 
Brands to look out for are: The Finishing Touch, Gütermann, Isafil, Madeira, Megasheen, Mettler Silky Sheen, Mez Alcazar, Robison-Anton, Scansilk, Signature, Sulky, and Sulky Ultra Twist.

There are many other threads available like Metallics, Mylar and even Special Effect threads. The list goes on and on! But the three common ones you as a beginner should know about are Cotton, Rayon and Polyester.

I hope this article will shed some light on where to go and what to choose, why not share your experience on your favorite thread on our  group discussions?