Can I Use Embroidery Thread In My Sewing Machine?

Creative minds always for an unconventional way to bring out the startling outcome of their approach. The same thing goes for the crafty enthusiasts too. When it comes to stitching wonders with your sewing machine, it’s essential to know the dos and don’ts of thread selection. Embroidery thread might seem like the perfect candidate, with its lustrous sheen and decorative appeal. Following this possibility, you might be wondering, can I use embroidery thread in my sewing machine?

Well, to get sure about it you need to consider a few options that come along this query we’re about to put forward. In this article, we’ll share and discuss the choosing right thread, how they impact your sewing project, their influence on other factors, and much more. At the end of the discussion, it’ll be easy to figure out the exact way for a stylish and unique design for your embroidery or other sewing projects.

Key Takeaways

Is It Possible to Sew with Embroidery Thread In Sewing Machine?

Is-it-possible-to-sew-with-embroidery-thread-in-sewing-machine
Is it possible to sew with embroidery thread in sewing machine

Yes, you can definitely use embroidery thread on your regular sewing machine and create some fantastic projects. There are some considerations to make while sewing about choosing the right threads. Since embroidery thread is a versatile and reliable choice for your sewing needs. It comes in various materials, colors, and finishes, allowing you to explore different styles and achieve impressive outcomes.

One technique to use embroidery thread for regular sewing is Instead of separating the embroidery thread into individual strands, you can thread all six strands together through the needle. This creates a thicker and more prominent stitch, adding a unique look to your sewing projects. Embroidery thread can be used on different sewing equipment, including sewing machines and sergers.

Some embroidery threads are specifically designed for machine use and offer enhanced performance. For example, threads made of cotton, rayon, or polyester can provide strength and durability to your finished garments.

To use embroidery thread on a regular sewing machine, follow these simple steps:

Embroidery Thread: 7 Types and Characteristics

With a better understanding of these embroidery threads, you’d be able to pick the right ones for your projects and execute the ideas better.

1. Pearl cotton

Pearl-cotton
Pearl cotton

First up, we have pearl cotton embroidery floss. This thread is made of 2-ply cotton twisted like a rope and comes in different thicknesses. It’s non-divisible, making it perfect for intricate and decorative stitches. The texture of embroidery done with pearl cotton is more textured and rope-like, adding depth to your designs.

2. Satin

Satin
Satin

If you’re after a satin finish, consider using a 6-strand satin thread. It’s silky and smooth, with brilliant colors that catch the eye. However, be mindful as the strands tend to separate easily. To avoid any hassle, try using only a few strands at a time instead of all six.

3. Variegated

Variegated
Variegated

Variegated floss is another exciting option. It’s regular 6-strand cotton floss with a gradient of colors on a single strand. This is great for embroidering letters or filling in areas with stitches like the satin stitch. To make it more manageable, I recommend using just one or two strands and blending them with regular cotton floss.

4. Etoile

Etoile
Etoile

Etoile thread combines cotton floss with metallic thread, creating a fluffy and textured effect. It’s much easier to work with compared to threads made entirely of metallic or synthetic fibers. The added texture gives your embroidery a unique and eye-catching look.

5. Crewel

Crewel
Crewel

Crewel yarn, typically 2-ply wool, is ideal for crewel embroidery. It’s thicker than other threads, adding a chunky and fluffy texture to your stitches. This thread brings dimension and depth to your embroidery, making it stand out.

6. Ribbon

Ribbon
Ribbon

For ribbon embroidery, silk ribbon is the way to go. It’s soft, pliable, and perfect for creating delicate florals and leaves. Although synthetic ribbon can also be used, it can be a bit more challenging to work with. Ribbon comes in various widths measured in millimeters, allowing you to experiment with different effects.

7. Silk thread

Silk-thread
Silk-thread

Silk thread is traditionally used for silk shading or thread painting. Its fine fibers make blending colors a breeze, resulting in stunning gradients and smooth transitions. Keep in mind that silk thread can be more expensive and harder to find, but the results are worth it.

5 Characteristics of Embroidery Threads

5 Characteristics-of-embroidery-threads
5 Characteristics of embroidery threads

Embroidery thread comes in a variety of options, each with its own unique characteristics that contribute to the final outcome of your embroidery project. Understanding these characteristics can help you choose the right thread for your specific needs.

Here are the core traits of the embroidery threads:

1. Fiber content

Embroidery threads are available in various fiber options such as cotton, polyester, silk, rayon, and metallic. Each fiber has its own properties and appearance. For example, cotton threads have a matte finish and are suitable for vintage or rustic designs, while metallic threads add a shiny and eye-catching element to embroidery.

2. Thread weight

Thread weight refers to the thickness or fineness of the thread. Common thread weights for embroidery range from 30 to 60. Thicker threads, such as 30 weight, are ideal for bold and prominent designs, while finer threads, like 60 weight, are better suited for delicate and intricate details.

3. Twist

The twist of the thread refers to the way the individual strands are twisted together. Some threads have a tight twist, while others have a looser twist. The twist affects the sheen, durability, and stitch appearance. For instance, a tight twist thread like rayon has a higher sheen, making it suitable for decorative designs.

4. Colorfastness

It’s crucial to choose embroidery threads that are colorfast, meaning they retain their color even after washing or exposure to sunlight. Colorfast threads ensure that your embroidery remains vibrant and doesn’t fade over time.

5. Strength

The strength of the thread is essential to withstand tension and stress during embroidery. Threads with high tensile strength, like polyester, are less likely to break or fray, making them suitable for dense designs or high-speed embroidery machines.

8 Tips for Sewing with Embroidery Thread in Sewing Machine

Embroidery thread can add strength and a touch of elegance to your finished clothing pieces. But before you dive in, here are a few tips to make your experience smooth and successful.

Lowering feed dog

First, consider lowering the feed dog of your sewing machine when using embroidery cotton thread. This adjustment helps prevent the thread from getting caught or pulled too tightly. It allows for smoother stitching and avoids any potential tension issues.

Double-checking bobbin

Next, don’t forget to check your bobbin before inserting it. Make sure it’s not empty and properly wound with your chosen embroidery thread. An empty bobbin can lead to thread breakage and frustration. So, double-check and ensure it’s ready to go.

Quality of threads

Quality matters! To achieve excellent results, avoid using old or low-quality thread. The thread’s quality affects the overall look and durability of your embroidery. Opt for fresh, high-quality embroidery thread to ensure your stitches come out beautifully.

Threads for embroidery machine

When it comes to machine embroidery, thicker and smoother threads work best. Popular choices include rayon, cotton, metallics, silk, and polyester. These threads are specifically designed to run smoothly on machines and provide a soft, luxurious feel to your fabric. Experiment with different threads to find the ones that suit your project and personal style.

Embroidery floss

On the other hand, for hand embroidery, stranded embroidery cotton thread, also known as “Embroidery Floss,” is the go-to choice. These cotton threads come in bundles of six strands, giving you flexibility in adjusting the thickness. You can use all six strands together or separate them based on the material or the level of detail you want to achieve.

Rayon embroidery floss

If you’re working with rayon embroidery floss, keep in mind that it’s shiny but can be a bit trickier to work with as it tends to tangle easily. To avoid frustration, use shorter lengths of thread while working and dampen the thread slightly for smoother stitching.

Hand embroidery consideration

For hand embroidery with cotton threads, it’s recommended to separate the floss into individual strands. Then bring them together and thread your needle. Working with shorter lengths, around 25 inches, helps prevent tangling and makes the stitching process more manageable.

Color thread prep

If you’re using colorful threads, it’s a good idea to pre-wash them before starting your embroidery project. This step ensures that there won’t be any color bleeding later on, protecting the integrity of your design.

FAQs

Can a sewing machine use any thread?

Sewing machines are designed to work with a variety of threads, but not every thread is suitable. It’s important to use thread specifically made for sewing machines to ensure smooth stitching. Regular sewing thread, such as polyester or cotton, is commonly used.

Can I use embroidery thread in my bobbin?

While you can use embroidery thread in your sewing machine’s top thread, it’s generally not recommended for the bobbin. Embroidery thread is thicker and often made of different materials, which can cause tension problems or thread jamming in the bobbin area.

What is the best thread for a sewing machine?

The best thread for a sewing machine depends on the project and fabric you’re working with. Generally, polyester and cotton threads are versatile and widely used. Polyester thread is strong, durable, and resistant to shrinkage, making it suitable for a wide range of fabrics.

What is the difference between a thread and a bobbin?

In sewing, a thread refers to the thin strand of fiber used to create stitches. It runs through the needle and forms the upper part of the stitch. The bobbin, on the other hand, is a small spool that holds the lower thread in the sewing machine. The bobbin thread intertwines with the top thread to create a lockstitch, securing the stitches.

Final Thoughts

So, while embroidery thread may be alluring and tempting to use in your sewing machine, it’s generally not recommended. Sewing machines are designed to work best with regular sewing thread, which is thinner and smoother. Using embroidery thread can lead to tension issues, uneven stitches, thread breakage, and potential damage to your machine. Still, if you can maintain the tips we’ve shared in this article and know about the appropriate threads to apply them accordingly we’ll end up having your desired outcome for your sewing project.

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