quiltlady1941

I did a search here and came up with some interesting answers about when FMQ and using all cotton thread will the thread shrink?

So what do you think when FMQ do you use cotton thread? are you concerned about if it will shrink or not? Thanks

MadQuilter

I never gave that any thought. My quilts are generally pieced and quilted with cotton threads and I can't say that I have experienced any issues.

ManiacQuilter2

I never gave it any thought either. I remember back in the 80s, poly got a really bad rap because I did see quilts where the thread tore thru the cotton fabric. I use premium threads because my Bernina doesn't like Gutterman or C&C.

Onebyone

I found the poly thread doesn't break, shred or leave lint so I use it the most. I doubt the cotton will shrink, most cotton thread goes through a heating process. I'm lucky my Bernina will use any type thread. All I have to do is adjust the tension.

suern3

I only use cotton thread for FMQ and have not noticed any shrinking of the thread. I usually use Aurifil thread but have used CC, not my favorite but not due to shrinking.

Stitchnripper

I use mostly coats and Clark cotton. My mechanical Brother is not fussy about thread. I've not noticed any thread shrinking on my quilts.

Jane Quilter

I use YLI cotton (waxed?) thread to hand quilt. It holds up better than the fabric, and hardly knots at all.

hairquilt

I always use cotton. My Pfaff does well with any type thread and just keeps on truckin! I guess I think the fabric is cotton so use cotton thread! Old school type!

Snooze2978

I use cotton thread for quilting all the time but never gave it a thought whether it would shrink. I don't wash my fabrics before I cut into them but I do starch them and later press them so I'm sure they do shrink a little during that process. Still I've never had any ill effects from the cotton thread and I wash my quilts before I give them out to the recipent.

slbram17

I've used both. I always prewash the fabric and then again when the quilt is completed. I love the shrinkage look on a quilt so it doesn't bother me at all.