Thread question for a newbie
#12
Originally Posted by katier825
#15
It definitely depends on what you are using the thread for and linty thread does require more cleaning. I had to take mine to the doctor because it had managed to pull a fuzz ball up into the tension disks and I couldn't get it out.
My only advice would be use what you've got (unless you got it at a Dollar Store--throw that away now!) but if your machine starts acting up and the thread looks ok and doesn't easily break when you pull on it, try a size larger needle and then try a different thread. You'll know quickly if your machine doesn't like a certain brand.
My Singer hates the thin poly threads. It will throw an absolute hissy fit and it likes to eat the pretty rayons which are only good for embroidery anyway. Not strong enough for seams or quilting.
My only advice would be use what you've got (unless you got it at a Dollar Store--throw that away now!) but if your machine starts acting up and the thread looks ok and doesn't easily break when you pull on it, try a size larger needle and then try a different thread. You'll know quickly if your machine doesn't like a certain brand.
My Singer hates the thin poly threads. It will throw an absolute hissy fit and it likes to eat the pretty rayons which are only good for embroidery anyway. Not strong enough for seams or quilting.
#16
My absolutely favorite machine quilting thread is Valdani. It's manufactured in Canada and their variegated 35wt - 2000m cones are the best. The thicker 35wt stands out so well on a quilt.
Go to www.valdani.com to take a look. They also have some good deals on the large cones. I just ordered 2 of my favorite 2000m cones for $5.80 each.
I use the Coats 50wt machine quilting mercerized cotton thread for piecing and some of my machine quilting.
Go to www.valdani.com to take a look. They also have some good deals on the large cones. I just ordered 2 of my favorite 2000m cones for $5.80 each.
I use the Coats 50wt machine quilting mercerized cotton thread for piecing and some of my machine quilting.
#18
I was taught to use polyester threads with polyester fabrics and cotton thread with cotton fabrics, only because polyester thread can cut through softer cotton fabrics over a period of time. The test for a good thread is to tug it, if it breaks too easily then keep it for basting only. The same applies if it stretches when you tug on it (do a measure check before and after) some threads sold eg in the 'Two dollar shop' which have miles of thread have most likely been designed for over/locking and are best used on machines for that purpose, to use these threads in your sewing machine may affect the tention.
Gal
Gal
#20
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Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Sturbridge, Ma
Posts: 3,992
One of the best threads for hand quilting is from the Big Box store in a bin for .99 a spool. Made by A&E and comes in several colors.
Otherwise I use whatever I have. If it really doesn't work then I toss it. I have used older threads that work well. I like the Coats and Clark older thread and buy it anywhere it is still available. It is cotton wrapped poly and machine and hand works well. I've bought boxes of older threads from Good will that work fine on my charity quilts. Test it and if it breaks easily, then there is a problem but if strong then will work.
Also,. when you buy thread, some of the more expensive larger spools may be the best value. Check the quantity on the spool and calculate like the grocery store calculates items per once or serving
Otherwise I use whatever I have. If it really doesn't work then I toss it. I have used older threads that work well. I like the Coats and Clark older thread and buy it anywhere it is still available. It is cotton wrapped poly and machine and hand works well. I've bought boxes of older threads from Good will that work fine on my charity quilts. Test it and if it breaks easily, then there is a problem but if strong then will work.
Also,. when you buy thread, some of the more expensive larger spools may be the best value. Check the quantity on the spool and calculate like the grocery store calculates items per once or serving
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10-22-2010 07:37 AM