Ever tried hand sewing with thread that snaps every five seconds? Frustrating, right? Good thread is essential for any hand-sewing project, whether you’re mending a tear, creating a quilt, or crafting a new garment. But with so many options available, picking the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, I’ll share my top picks for the best threads for hand sewing, helping you choose the perfect match for your needs.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP General Purpose Thread: A reliable all-around thread, great for a variety of fabrics and projects.
- Gutermann Sew-All Thread: High-quality thread known for its smooth finish and durability, suitable for both hand and machine sewing.
- Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread: A premium cotton thread ideal for quilting and fine detail work.
- SINGER Extra Strong Upholstery Thread: Designed for heavy-duty projects like upholstery, leather, and canvas.
- DMC Embroidery Floss: Perfect for adding decorative stitches and embellishments to your hand-sewn projects.
Top 5 Best Thread For Hand Sewing
1. Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP General Purpose Thread
Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP is a classic for a reason. It’s a polyester-cotton blend that offers a good balance of strength and smoothness, making it suitable for a wide range of fabrics. This thread is a solid choice for everyday sewing tasks and holds up well to wear and tear.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile and can be used for a variety of projects
- ✅ Strong and durable
- ✅ Available in a wide range of colors
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit fuzzy compared to higher-end threads
- ❌ Not ideal for very delicate fabrics
- ❌ Some colors may not be perfectly colorfast
Verdict: A great all-around thread for beginners and experienced sewers alike. It’s reliable, affordable, and readily available.
2. Gutermann Sew-All Thread
Gutermann Sew-All Thread is a high-quality polyester thread that’s known for its smooth finish and consistent performance. It’s a favorite among sewists because it works well with both hand and machine sewing, reducing the need to switch threads constantly. I’ve used Gutermann for years and find it particularly good for projects where a clean, professional finish is desired.
Pros:
- ✅ Very smooth and creates neat stitches
- ✅ Strong and durable
- ✅ Works well for both hand and machine sewing
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than some other general-purpose threads
- ❌ Can be difficult to find in some local stores
- ❌ Not the best choice for very heavy-duty projects
Verdict: A solid investment for sewers who value quality and versatility. It’s a great choice for garments, home décor, and other projects where a professional finish is desired.
3. Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread
Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread is a premium thread made from 100% Egyptian cotton. It’s prized for its smoothness, low lint, and beautiful matte finish. This thread is particularly popular among quilters because it creates a soft, even stitch that blends seamlessly into the fabric. I remember the first time I used Aurifil; the difference in stitch quality was immediately noticeable.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptionally smooth and creates beautiful stitches
- ✅ Low lint, which reduces machine maintenance
- ✅ Made from high-quality Egyptian cotton
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than synthetic threads
- ❌ Not as strong as polyester threads
- ❌ Requires more care when washing and drying finished projects
Verdict: An excellent choice for quilters and anyone working with natural fibers. Its superior quality makes it worth the investment for projects where stitch quality is paramount.
4. SINGER Extra Strong Upholstery Thread
When you need serious strength, SINGER Extra Strong Upholstery Thread is the way to go. This thread is designed for heavy-duty projects like upholstery, leatherwork, and canvas repairs. It’s made from a robust polyester that can withstand a lot of stress, making it ideal for projects that need to hold up to heavy use. I once used this to repair a ripped patio umbrella, and it’s still holding strong years later!
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely strong and durable
- ✅ Ideal for heavy-duty projects
- ✅ Resistant to abrasion and UV damage
Cons:
- ❌ Not suitable for delicate fabrics
- ❌ Limited color options
- ❌ Can be difficult to work with due to its thickness
Verdict: The go-to choice for upholstery, leatherwork, and other heavy-duty applications. Its strength and durability make it a reliable option for demanding projects.
5. DMC Embroidery Floss
DMC Embroidery Floss is a classic for adding decorative stitches and embellishments to hand-sewn projects. Made from 100% cotton, this floss comes in a vast array of colors, allowing for endless creative possibilities. I’ve used DMC floss for everything from cross-stitch to adding decorative accents to clothing, and it always delivers vibrant, beautiful results.
Pros:
- ✅ Wide range of colors
- ✅ Soft and easy to work with
- ✅ Perfect for decorative stitches and embellishments
Cons:
- ❌ Can fray easily if not handled carefully
- ❌ Not suitable for structural seams
- ❌ Colors can fade over time if exposed to direct sunlight
Verdict: A must-have for anyone interested in embroidery or adding decorative details to their hand-sewn projects. Its extensive color range and soft texture make it a joy to work with.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right thread for hand sewing depends on several factors, including the type of fabric you’re using, the project you’re working on, and your personal preferences. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Consider the Fabric: Match the thread type to the fabric type. Cotton thread works well with cotton fabrics, while polyester thread is a good choice for synthetic fabrics. For delicate fabrics like silk, use a fine silk or polyester thread.
- Think About the Project: Heavy-duty projects like upholstery require strong thread like upholstery thread. Garments and quilts can be sewn with general-purpose or quilting thread. Embroidery projects require embroidery floss.
- Check the Thread Weight: Thread weight refers to the thickness of the thread. Lighter-weight threads are suitable for delicate fabrics, while heavier-weight threads are better for thicker fabrics.
- Choose the Right Color: Match the thread color to the fabric color for inconspicuous seams, or choose a contrasting color for decorative effect.
- Read Reviews: Before buying thread, read reviews from other sewers to get an idea of its quality and performance.
- Test the Thread: If possible, test the thread on a scrap of fabric before starting your project. This will help you ensure that it’s compatible with the fabric and that you’re happy with the stitch quality.
FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between cotton and polyester thread?
A: Cotton thread is made from natural fibers and is a good choice for natural fabrics like cotton and linen. Polyester thread is made from synthetic fibers and is stronger and more durable than cotton thread. It’s a good choice for synthetic fabrics and projects that require extra strength.
Q: Can I use the same thread for hand sewing and machine sewing?
A: Yes, you can use the same thread for both hand sewing and machine sewing, but it’s important to choose a thread that’s suitable for both methods. Gutermann Sew-All Thread is a popular choice because it works well with both hand and machine sewing.
Q: How do I prevent my thread from tangling when hand sewing?
A: To prevent your thread from tangling, use a shorter length of thread, wax the thread with beeswax, and avoid pulling the thread too tightly.
Q: What is the best thread for quilting?
A: Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread is a popular choice for quilting because it’s smooth, low lint, and creates a soft, even stitch. Other good options include cotton quilting thread from brands like Connecting Threads and Superior Threads.
Conclusion
Choosing the right thread can make all the difference in your hand-sewing projects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, understanding the different types of thread available and their specific uses will help you achieve professional-looking results. From the versatile Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP to the heavy-duty SINGER Upholstery Thread, there’s a perfect thread for every project. Happy sewing!
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