Contents
Embroidery Basics
How to Choose Embroidery Fabric
Embroidery Thread
Embroidery Tools
How to Read Embroidery Patterns
How to Prepare Fabric for Embroidery
How to Transfer Embroidery Templates
How to Place Fabric in a Hoop
How to Start Embroidery Thread
Embroidery Stitching Methods
Embroidery Stitch Library
How to Fix Embroidery Mistakes
How to Finish a Design (or Thread)
How to Display Finished Embroidery
How to Cross Stitch
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Embroidery Thread
Embroidery thread is available in a rainbow of colors and a variety of fiber types.
Types of Embroidery Thread
There are four main types of embroidery thread:
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Six-stranded embroidery floss:
The most common type of embroidery thread, six-stranded floss is versatile because you can separate each of its six strands into individual strands. You can then use the individual strands to embroider fine details or recombine them to blend different colors. Six-stranded floss is available in various fibers, including cotton, linen, silk, and rayon.
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Perle cotton:
This cotton thread is thicker than floss and twisted slightly. Perle is an especially good thread for beginners since it’s resistant to fraying and easier to handle than floss.
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Crewel wool:
Also called broder medicis, this fine, two-stranded, indivisible thread is suitable for all sorts of embroidery, including detailed crewel work.
- Specialty embroidery threads: These threads have colors and sheens (such as a metallic shimmer) that traditional threads don’t offer. They’re usually made from synthetic fibers, though some are made from silk.
Buying Thread
All types of embroidery thread are available in craft shops, art supply stores, and online. Thread is sold with a label that identifies its fiber content, length, color number (a number associated with a specific color), and manufacturer.
Organizing Threads
It’s important to keep threads contained and free of snags, tangles, and dust. Each type of thread can be organized easily in small, resealable plastic bags. Make sure to keep the original label in the bag for reference or write the color number and brand on the outside of the bag.
Choosing Embroidery Thread
The type of thread to use for a particular project depends on a number of factors:
- Fiber: Try to use embroidery thread made from the same material as the fabric on which you’re working.
- Color: If you’ve already started a project, buy new thread only from the same manufacturer and with the same color number so it matches.
- Washability: If an embroidered item is unlikely to be washed, you can use more delicate threads, such as specialty threads made from rayons. If the item will be laundered, use cotton or other laundry-safe threads. Buy only thread that’s colorfast so the color of the thread won’t fade or bleed onto the base fabric.
- Delicacy: If your design requires fine details or color shading, try divisible threads such as six-stranded floss.
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