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Choosing the Right Thread Material

Choosing the Right Thread Material

11 October 2023

What material of sewing thread should I use? 

Thread, you can't sew a seam without it but not all threads are the same. As you shop for thread, you'll see that thread is available in various materials. A basic knowledge of textile fibers will facilitate an intelligent appraisal of fibers and types, and help identify the right quality for the application.

Fiber Classification Material Feature Application

Natural Fiber-Come from plants or animals and are spun or twisted into yarns.

Cotton
  • Fair to good strength
  • Very little elasticity
  • Soft feel
  • Good absorbency
  • Weakened by extended sunlight exposure
  • textile products
  • woven and knitted apparel
  • lend with other fibers such as rayon, polyester, spandex, etc.
Wool
  • Crimped in appearance
  • Elastic
  • Hygroscopic readily absorbs moisture
  • Ignites at a higher temperature than cotton
  • Resistant to static electricity
  • Clothing – jackets, suits, trousers, sweaters, hats etc.
  • Blankets, carpets, felt and upholstery
  • Horse rugs, saddle cloths

Man-made Fibers- is made from various chemicals that are then melt-spun or wet-spun into continuous filament fibers. 

Rayon/Viscose
  • Soft, smooth and comfortable
  • Naturally high in luster
  • Highly absorbent
  • Durability and shape retention is low, especially when wet
  • Low elastic recovery
 
  • Apparel - blouses, dresses, jackets, lingerie, linings, suits, neck ties etc.
  • Furnishing items - bedspreads, bed sheets, blankets, window treatments, upholstery etc.
  • Industrial uses e.g. medical surgery products, non-woven products, tyre cord etc.
  • Other uses - feminine hygiene products, diapers, towels, etc.
Nylon  
  • Highly resilient
  • High elongation and elasticity
  • Strong and durable
  • Excellent abrasion resistance
  • Thermoplastic
  • Has the ability to be very lustrous, semi-lustrous or dull
  • Resistant to insects, fungi, mildew and rot
 
  • Apparel – pantyhose, stockings, leggings, etc.
  • Home furnishing
  • Industrial applications - parachutes, tyre cords, ropes, airbags, hoses, etc.
Polyester  
  • Thermoplastic
  • Good strength
  • Hydrophobic (non absorbent)
 
  • Apparel – woven and knits, shirts, pants, jackets, hats etc.
  • Home furnishing – bed sheets, blankets, upholstered furniture, cushioning material
  • Industrial uses – conveyor belts, safety belts, tyre reinforcement

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