How to Choose the Right Sewing Thread

Curious to learn how to choose the correct sewing thread? If yes, then you have come to the right place for inspiration. Here at Manhattan Wardrobe Supply, we offer a wide range of high-quality sewing threads, and we are more than happy to show you which ones to choose and how to use them!

From sewing threads that are designed for use on synthetic fabrics to strong threads that promise to hold materials together indefinitely, read on to discover how to select the perfect purpose thread for your next project.

How to Choose Sewing Thread Color

When choosing a sewing thread color, you should always opt for a shade slightly darker than the fabric – as a general rule of thumb. The only exception to this rule is when you are sewing in pastels or lightweight fabrics, as lighter threads tend to blend in better than darker ones.

If you are unsure which color thread to use, it can be helpful to lay several shades out on the fabric to see which thread is ideal.

How to Choose Polyester Sewing Thread

There are many different types of polyester sewing threads on the market, and, as one of the strongest types of sewing thread, it is also one of the most popular.

Here at Wardrobe Supply Company, we recommend either Gutermann Sew-All or Coats and Clark XP, as these are both highly effective polyester sewing threads.

Some of the most notable benefits of using 100% polyester sewing thread include:

• It is super-strong
• It is resistant to UV rays, rot, mildew, and chemicals
• It offers good stretch
• It is suitable for most fabrics, including woven, synthetics, knits, and stretch materials
• It can be used when sewing by hand and with a sewing machine

In addition, Coats and Clark XP purpose thread is made using polyester-wrapped, core-spun technology, which results in a stronger and smoother thread that delivers a superior finish.

How to Choose Topstitching Sewing Thread

Topstitching thread is the best choice if you are looking for thicker threads that hold better than normal sewing thread.

When it comes to choosing a topstitching sewing thread, Gutermann Topstitch Thread is one of the top-rated brands due to its strength and high luster. Specifically, Gutermann color #865 is the perfect match for topstitching and hemming jeans.

Whatever project it’s for, some of the most notable benefits of topstitching sewing thread are:

• It is very strong
• It is perfect for bold and decorative sewing and stitching
• It is good for buttonholing, button sewing, and repairing denim garments

How to Choose Upholstery Sewing Thread

Upholstery thread is stronger and thicker than standard thread and can be used for many different types of sewing projects.

In fact, Gutermann Upholstery Thread is 100% polyester and ideal for outdoor projects because it is rot resistant.

Some of the most notable benefits of upholstery sewing thread are:

• It is ultra-strong
• It is perfect for sewing upholstery, leather and vinyl heavyweight fabrics

How to Choose Cotton Sewing Thread

Although not as strong as some other sewing threads, cotton thread is both soft and supple, which makes it ideal for use on light to medium-weight fabrics.

Gutermann Cotton Sewing Thread is made from spun staple cotton fibers and is 100% cotton thread that has been mercerized. This means it has a more lustrous appearance by absorbing more dye and delivering more vibrant shades of color.

Some of the most notable benefits of cotton sewing thread include:

• It is soft and supple
• It is tear and abrasion-resistant
• It is elastic and extendible
• It is light-resistant
• It is color-fast
• It comes in a wide range of different colors

It is worth noting that cotton sewing thread is not good for knitting use since it has limited strength – even heavy and medium thickness cotton sewing thread isn’t very suitable for knits.

How to Choose Invisible Sewing Thread

If you need a strong sewing thread that can’t be seen, then Gutermann Invisible Thread is a perfect option.

Available in clear and smoke, this sewing thread is made from 100% nylon and is very thin. It’s also ideal for quick repairs and any sewing project where the machine thread needs to be invisible.

Some of the most notable benefits of invisible sewing thread include:

• It is thin and strong
• It is great for hemming and quilting
• It can be used on multicolored fabric

How to Choose Elastic Sewing Thread

Gutermann Elastic Sewing Thread is made from 64% polyester and 36% polyurethane and is ideal for use on jersey cotton and elastic material

Available in black, white, red, and navy, elastic sewing thread boasts a continuous elastic core wrapped around the thread.

Elastic sewing thread is:

• Thick
• Great for gathering, shirring, and stocking
• Excellent for elastic waistbands and ruffles

How to Choose Waxed Sewing Thread

Waxed sewing thread is a type of fine tailoring thread that is most commonly used for hand sewing and custom tailoring.

Our Silamide waxing thread is strong and glides well through fabrics without knotting or leaving holes.

How to Choose Serger Sewing Thread

Serger sewing thread is wrapped on large cones and is typically 100% polyester. It is most commonly used with serger machines to serge seams onto clothing. However, Serger thread is not as thick and strong as other types of sewing thread.

We stock both Maxi-Lock and Gutermann Serger Thread.

How to Choose Metallic Sewing Thread

Metallic thread such as our Sulky Metallic Sewing Thread boasts a foil-like appearance and is often used in decorative stitching. As one of the most popular embroidery threads, these are sold in solid and mixed colors.

Metallics threads tend to be finer than other threads, so not all are suitable for machinery use.

Need Help?

Still need a little more help choosing the right sewing thread? Get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team – we’ll be glad to assist!