Is Polyester Thread Good for Embroidery?
When it comes to machine embroidery, the thread is everything. Whether you’re a pro or a hobbyist you might be asking yourself, “Is polyester thread good for embroidery?” This post will cover everything you need to know about polyester embroidery thread and why it might be the best for you. We’ll look at the benefits of polyester thread, compare it to rayon and consider its use in regular sewing. By the end you’ll know why polyester thread is the way to go for embroidery.
Polyester Embroidery Thread
Polyester embroidery thread is known for its durability and colour retention. Unlike some others, it resists UV rays, washing and chlorine bleach so your designs will stay brilliant for longer. This is why it’s a favourite in the textile industry where longevity and appearance matter.
Another benefit of polyester thread is its strength. More robust than rayon, polyester has the highest tensile strength. This makes it perfect for heavy use or wear and tear applications like uniforms or outdoor gear. Polyester thread is also great for commercial linens as it can withstand harsh cleaning conditions and frequent washing. Polyester is particularly good for items that get washed frequently.
Plus polyester thread is super versatile. It can handle high speed embroidery machines without fraying or breaking so it’s a favourite among professional embroiderers. Its versatility extends to a wide range of fabrics from soft cotton to heavy denim so you get clean and precise stitches. Polyester thread also reduces thread breaks so it’s more reliable and performs well in all embroidery applications.
Polyester Embroidery Thread Size Chart
Items | Thread Quality and Indicators | |||
AA Class | A Class | B Class | ||
Embroidery speed for strands (monofilament 600 RPM) |
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) | ≤1200 | ≤1000 | ≤800 |
Average Breaking Strength(cN) | 120D/2 | ≥1180 | ≥1180 | ≥930 |
150D/2 | / | / | ≥1180 | |
300D/1 | / | / | ≥1180 | |
300D/2 | / | / | ≥2361 | |
600D/1 | / | / | ≥2361 |
When it comes to choosing embroidery thread a colour chart is a must have. Many manufacturers provide polyester embroidery thread charts with a wide range of colours. These charts allow you to match thread colours to your embroidered design so you don’t have to guess.
Polyester thread charts have various shades to suit any project. From bright reds to soft pastels you have the freedom to be creative and match colours precisely. This is especially important in professional embroidery where colour accuracy can make or break the final product.
These charts are not only for colour selection but also for planning. Having a chart on hand allows embroiderers to see how colours will work together so they can plan better and have design cohesion. They’re a guide to what’s possible with polyester thread.
Polyester Embroidery Thread Color Card
Color cards with 800 colors, can match perfectly to any fabric, also can match with PANTONE color.
Polyester Embroidery Thread Color Fastness
Good color fastness of the thread makes it resistant to the various chemical and physical agents the thread is exposed to during manufacturing and during its useful life. This ensures no bleeding of the color into the garment.
Items | Thread Quality and Indicators | |
Washing Color Fastness (60℃) | ≥Grade 3-4 | |
Rubbing Color Fastness | ≥Grade 3 | |
Color Difference | Difference Between Samples and Color Cards | ≥Grade 3-4 |
Difference Between Cones of the Same Box | ≥Grade 4 |
Polyester or Rayon Embroidery Thread?
The debate between polyester and rayon embroidery thread has many embroiderers confused. Both have their benefits but in the end polyester has the edge in many areas that makes it the preferred choice for many applications.
Polyester thread is known for its strength and durability so it’s better for items that get washed frequently or have high friction. This is mainly due to the special raw material used in its construction that reduces looping, puckering and thread breaks. Rayon is beautiful and silky to look at but lacks the same strength and can break more easily especially during machine embroidery.
Plus polyester thread has vibrant colours that don’t fade. Rayon threads lose their sheen and become dull after repeated washing. This is important for embroidery designs that need to look good for a long time.
Cost is another factor to consider. Polyester is often cheaper than rayon so it’s more economical for big projects or commercial use where cost is important. For those who want a balance of beauty and practicality polyester is the clear winner.
Can I use Polyester Embroidery Thread for Regular Sewing?
Many ask if they can use polyester embroidery thread for regular sewing and the answer is yes. Its strength and flexibility makes it suitable for many sewing applications beyond embroidery, including quilting and garment construction.
For quilting polyester thread is a great choice because it can withstand tension and manipulation. It helps create tight and durable seams that can withstand frequent use and washing. This is especially good for bed covers that need to last over time.
Even in garment construction polyester thread has many advantages. It works on various fabrics from delicate silks to sturdy twills. Its strength ensures seams hold up under stress which is important for clothing that gets worn regularly.
Using polyester embroidery thread for regular sewing can also save you costs as its durability means less replacement. It’s a versatile and economical choice for all types of sewists, hobbyist to professional.
What’s special about Polyester Thread in Embroidery?
One of the special things about polyester thread in the embroidery world is its composition. Unlike other threads polyester is less absorbent so it dries faster and doesn’t shrink when washed. This is good for the thread’s longevity and keeps the design and size of the embroidery intact.
Polyester’s elasticity is another important factor. This elasticity allows it to stretch under tension reducing the chance of breakage. It’s especially good for machine embroidery where threads can be subjected to high stress and speed.
Lastly polyester thread has a great sheen that rivals rayon. Rayon threads are known for their glossy finish polyester has the same finish but with added durability and colorfastness. This combination of beauty and strength and its shiny appearance makes polyester the better choice for those who want their embroidery to look as good as it performs.
The Surprising Advantages of Polyester Embroidery Thread
Beyond its obvious strength and versatility polyester thread has some surprising advantages that makes it more appealing to embroiderers. One of these is its eco-friendliness. Polyester threads are often made from recycled materials which is in line with the sustainable and environment conscious practices in the textile industry.
Polyester thread’s mildew and moisture resistance also makes it a good choice for outdoor and marine use. This resistance ensures the embroidery stays intact and looks good even in harsh environments where other threads may degrade.
Lastly its low lint composition is good for a clean and efficient sewing machine. Unlike some natural fibers that shed and create lint polyester thread glides smoothly through the machine reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance. This longevity and user friendliness is an added bonus for those who embroider a lot.
Polyester Thread in the Textile World
Polyester thread is used in the textile industry in a big way due to its unique properties. It’s used in commercial textiles like uniforms and promotional materials where durability and appearance is key. Polyester’s ability to withstand wear and wash cycles makes it a must have in these applications.
Also polyester thread’s colorfastness means you can produce vibrant and intricate designs without worrying about fading. This is important in items that need high visual impact like branded apparel and advertising materials. The thread’s ability to hold bold colors ensures consistent quality even after repeated use.
Because of its advantages polyester thread is also used in home textiles like upholstery and drapery. Its ability to withstand cleaning and steady sun exposure makes it better than other threads and gives lasting beauty and functionality to household items.
Choosing Polyester Thread for Different Uses
Choosing the right polyester thread requires some thought on the application. For example when doing embroidery art choosing a thread with a subtle sheen that matches the fabric’s texture will enhance the design. Polyester threads are available in different finishes from matte to glossy so you have more creative options.
When working on heavy fabrics or items that need extra durability use a thicker polyester thread. Thicker threads are good for outdoor gear, workwear and other applications where strength is needed.
Also choose a thread that matches your sewing machine’s specifications. Polyester threads work well in most modern sewing machines but to be sure choose one that is compatible to prevent thread breakage or tension imbalance and for smooth and efficient sewing.
How Polyester Thread Saves
Using polyester thread in embroidery and sewing will save you money in the long run. Its durability means less thread replacement in small and big projects. This is very important in manufacturing where cost savings is key to competitiveness.
Polyester thread’s colorfastness and resistance to sun and moisture means longer lasting designs. This means less re-embroidering or replacement of embroidered items, time and resource saving.
Also polyester thread’s versatility across different applications means you don’t need to buy multiple threads. Being able to use one thread for multiple projects simplifies inventory management and reduces buying complexity making it a cost effective for businesses and individuals alike.
Tips when working with Polyester Thread
To get the best results when using polyester thread, consider thread tension and needle selection. Adjust the sewing machine’s tension settings to accommodate the thread’s stretchiness to prevent puckering or breakage.
Choose the right needle too. Polyester thread works well with sharp needles that pierce fabric cleanly, reduces friction and makes stitching smoother. Needle size may vary depending on the fabric being used so choose a needle that matches the thread and fabric.
And store polyester thread in a cool dry place to preserve its quality over time. High temperature and humidity can weaken the thread’s integrity and cause embroidery issues. Follow these tips and you’ll get excellent results with polyester thread in any project.
Polyester Thread Developments
Polyester thread technology is still evolving and manufacturers are coming up with specialized coatings that improves thread performance in specific applications like high heat or outdoor conditions.
Eco-friendly processes are also emerging with more brands going green in thread production. This trend towards sustainable manufacturing matches the growing demand for sustainable materials in the textile industry and gives consumers and businesses more green options.
New colorfast dyes and finishes also expands polyester thread’s possibilities. With more colors and effects to choose from these innovations allows designers to create more dynamic and visually appealing embroidery without sacrificing performance or durability.
Polyester Thread in the Future
The future is bright for polyester thread as technology and manufacturing evolves and more applications will emerge. The growing range of colors, finishes and thread types will give you more creative options for hobbyist and professional use.
Polyester thread’s strength and versatility will always be a staple in embroidery. Its ability to keep up with trends and deliver performance will always be the preferred choice in the textile industry.
Whether you’re an experienced embroiderer or a beginner, polyester thread gives you performance and color. Know its benefits and applications and you can use polyester thread with confidence in your projects and take your embroidery to the next level.
Choosing the Right for Your Embroidery Projects
Polyester thread is a powerful tool in embroidery, durability, colorfastness and versatility. Know its benefits and features and you can make informed decisions that will make your creations better. By choosing polyester thread you’re investing in a material that will support and elevate your artistry whatever the project size or scale.
Want to try more with polyester thread? Check out color charts and industry forums. Connect with other embroiderers and share your experiences. Try, experiment and create with polyester thread in your next embroidery project.