Unlocking the Embroidery Secret: Why Sewing Thread Should Be Your Go-To!

AvatarByJill Nammar Sewing

Embroidery has been a beloved form of art for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Chinese. From intricate tapestries to delicate garments, embroidery has served as a means of expressing creativity and cultural identity. But with the growing DIY trend, many people are wondering if they can use everyday materials for their embroidery projects. One common question that arises is, “Can I use sewing thread for embroidery?” In this article, we’ll dive into the world of embroidery and unravel the truth behind this frequently asked question. So whether you’re a seasoned embroiderer or just getting started, let’s find out if sewing thread is suitable for your next embroidery masterpiece.

Embroidery is a beautiful and versatile craft that has been around for centuries. It involves using needle and thread to decorate fabric, creating intricate designs and patterns. As a beginner, you may wonder if you can use any type of thread for embroidery or if there are specific types of thread for this art form. In this article, we will explore the question “Can I use sewing thread for embroidery?” and provide you with all the information you need to know.

The Differences Between Sewing Thread and Embroidery Thread

Before we dive into the main question, it’s important to understand the differences between sewing thread and embroidery thread. While both are types of threads used in sewing, they have distinct characteristics that make them ideal for different purposes.

Sewing thread is a thin strand made from twisted fibers and is used primarily to hold fabric pieces together when sewing garments or other items. It comes in a variety of materials such as cotton, polyester, silk, or nylon and is available in different thicknesses or weights.

On the other hand, embroidery thread is specifically designed for decorative stitching and tends to be thicker than sewing thread. It typically comes in more vibrant colors and often has a sheen or luster to add more dimension to your embroidery projects.

The Main Differences Between Sewing Thread Weight

As mentioned earlier, sewing threads come in different weights or thicknesses which affect their strength and durability. The most common weights are 30, 50, 60, 80, 90, 120. The higher the number, the thinner the thread will be.

For embroidery purposes, a thicker thread with a lower weight (e.g. 30) is more suitable as it can hold up well against topstitching and embellishments without breaking easily. However, lighter weight threads (e.g. 60-80) can still be used for embroidery, especially for delicate designs or when using smaller needles.

Can Sewing Thread Be Used for Embroidery?

The short answer is yes, you can use sewing thread for embroidery. However, there are some factors to consider before using it as a substitute for embroidery thread.

Firstly, sewing thread is not as strong as embroidery thread and may easily break or fray when used with dense stitching. It is also typically made with a matte finish rather than a lustrous one which may not give the same effect as embroidery thread on your projects.

Additionally, sewing thread tends to have a looser twist compared to embroidery thread which affects its sheen and smoothness when embroidered. This can result in uneven stitching and unsatisfactory results.

When Can Sewing Thread Be Used for Embroidery?

While we recommend using embroidery thread for best results, there are instances where sewing thread can be used for embroidery without compromising the quality of your work.

For starters, if you are just practicing or learning new stitches, it may be more cost-effective to use sewing thread rather than investing in expensive embroidery threads. You can also use sewing threads when adding accents or small details to your project that do not require heavy stitching or intricate designs.

Another situation where sewing threads may come in handy is when you need a specific color that is not available in your collection of embroidery threads. In this case, you can use a similar color of sewing thread without much of a difference in the final result.

Things To Consider When Using Sewing Thread For Embroidery

If you decide to use sewing thread for your embroidery projects, here are some important things to keep in mind:

– Use high-quality threads: Low-quality threads tend to break easily which can ruin your project and lead to frustration.
– Avoid using dark colors on lighter fabrics: Dark-colored sewing thread may show through the fabric and detract from the overall design.
– Switch to a smaller needle: Sewing threads are thinner than embroidery threads, so using a smaller needle can prevent your stitches from looking too bulky.
– Test the thread on a scrap of fabric: Before using sewing thread on your actual project, test it on a scrap of fabric to see how it holds up and if it gives you the desired effect.

The Verdict

In conclusion, while sewing thread can be used for embroidery in certain situations, it is not the best option for achieving high-quality results. It is always recommended to use embroidery thread for this specific craft, but if you find yourself in a pinch or want to experiment with different colors and effects, sewing thread can be a suitable alternative. Just remember to consider the differences between these two types of threads and take necessary precautions when using sewing thread for embroidery.

What is Embroidery?

Embroidery is the art of decorating fabric or other materials with needle and thread. It involves stitching designs onto a fabric using different colored threads to create beautiful patterns. This decorative technique has been around for centuries, with evidence of embroidery dating back to the 5th century BC.

Can Sewing Thread be Used for Embroidery?

The short answer to this question is yes, sewing thread can be used for embroidery. However, it might not give you the same results as using specialized embroidery thread. Sewing thread and embroidery thread are made from different materials and have different properties that affect their performance when used for embroidery.

Differences between Sewing Thread and Embroidery Thread

Sewing thread is primarily used for sewing garments or household items together. It is usually made from cotton, polyester, or a blend of both. On the other hand, embroidery thread is specially designed for embellishing fabrics through decorative stitching. It comes in a wide range of colors and materials such as cotton, rayon, silk, wool, and metallic fibers.

Embroidery thread tends to be more tightly twisted than sewing thread, making it stronger and less prone to breakage during stitching. The higher twist also gives it a sheen that makes the finished embroidery design look more vibrant. Compared to sewing thread, embroidery threads are finer in weight. This allows for more intricate designs to be stitched without adding bulk to the fabric.

Another difference between sewing thread and embroidery thread is their colorfastness. Sewing threads are often dyed with natural dyes that can fade over time with exposure to sunlight or washing. Embroidery threads are dyed using synthetic dyes that are more resistant to fading.

When Can Sewing Thread Be Used for Embroidery?

Sewing threads can be used for embroidery in certain situations. For instance, if you are working on a small embroidery project with simple designs and don’t have access to specialty embroidery threads, sewing threads will do just fine. You can also use sewing threads for basting and temporary stitching during the embroidery process.

Additionally, if you are looking to achieve a different effect with your embroidery design, you can experiment with using sewing threads. For example, using a thicker sewing thread can create a raised effect on the finished design.

When is Embroidery Thread the Better Choice?

Embroidery thread is specifically designed for use in decorative stitching and therefore yields better results when compared to sewing thread. It comes in a broader color range that allows for more creativity and versatility when it comes to creating intricate designs. The higher quality of embroidery thread also means less breakage, ensuring smoother stitching and a polished final product.

Furthermore, using embroidery thread guarantees colorfastness even after multiple washes or exposure to sunlight. This makes it suitable for long-term use and ensures that your embroidered fabric maintains its vibrant look over time.

In conclusion, while using sewing thread for embroidery may be convenient in some situations, using specialized embroidery thread will always give you the best results. Sewing thread may lack the strength, sheen, fineness, color range, and colorfastness necessary for creating high-quality embroidered designs. Investing in good quality embroidery thread is essential if you want your stitched designs to stand out. However, feel free to experiment with different types of threads and see what works best for your projects. Happy embroidering!

Q: Can I use sewing thread for embroidery?
A: Yes, sewing thread can be used for embroidery, but it may not produce the desired results for intricate designs.

Q: What kind of sewing thread is best for embroidery?
A: Embroidery thread is specifically designed for the unique demands of embroidery and is the best option for achieving high-quality and durable results.

Q: Are there any disadvantages to using sewing thread for embroidery?
A: Yes, while sewing thread may work for simple designs, it may not be strong enough to withstand the tension and repeated needle punctures required for detailed embroidery work.

Q: Can I use different types of sewing thread for different types of embroidery?
A: Yes, there are various types of embroidery techniques such as hand embroidery, machine embroidery, and cross-stitching, each requiring a specific type of thread. It’s important to choose the right type of thread to achieve the desired effect.

Q: How can I determine if my sewing thread is suitable for embroidery?
A: You can do a pull test by tugging on a single strand of the thread. If it breaks easily or frays significantly, it is not recommended for use in embroidery. Alternatively, you can refer to the manufacturer’s label or consult with an experienced embroiderer.

Q: Is there a significant difference between sewing and embroidery threads?
A: Yes, there are notable differences between these two types of threads. Embroidery threads are typically finer and have fewer strands than traditional sewing threads. They also come in a wider range of colors and finishes specifically designed to add dimension and texture to embroidered designs.

After exploring the question, “Can I use sewing thread for embroidery?” it can be concluded that while sewing thread and embroidery thread may share some similarities, they are ultimately two distinct types of thread with different functions and purposes. Sewing thread is best suited for stitching seams and providing structural support, while embroidery thread is specifically designed for creating decorative designs and adding intricate details to a project.

Throughout this discussion, we have learned that using sewing thread for embroidery can result in limitations and potential drawbacks. Sewing thread is typically thinner and less durable than embroidery thread, which can lead to breakage or fraying during the stitching process. In addition, the color selection for sewing thread may be more limited compared to embroidery thread, making it challenging to achieve desired design outcomes.

On the other hand, using embroidery thread for sewing projects may also not yield the best results. Embroidery threads tend to be thicker and more decorative, which may not be suitable for creating strong seams or providing structural support.

Ultimately, using the right type of thread for a particular project is crucial in achieving a high-quality finished product. While it may be tempting to use whatever materials are readily available, investing in quality embroidery threads for embroidery projects and sewing threads for sewing projects will ultimately lead to better results.

In conclusion,

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.