A Comprehensive Guide to Specialty Threads

When it comes to making durable, functional or decorative stitching, choosing theright thread is crucial. Specialty threads offer a multitude of benefits and uses, so it’s a key to performance and aesthetics. Whether you’re working on machine embroidery, marine-grade projects or high-visibility designs, knowing the unique properties of each specialty thread will help you make the right choice for your needs.

This guide covers the most popular specialty threads: reflective, nylon-bonded, aramid, anti-UV, marine-grade, canvas, bottom threads, cotton and polyester and what they’re used for.

Reflective Thread

Reflective thread is for visibility and safety in low-light or dark conditions. Used in high-visibility clothing, safety gear and outdoor accessories it reflects light back to its source making the wearer or product visible.

Uses:

• Safety gear: Reflective threads are a must-have in vests, jackets and gloves for construction workers, traffic management personnel and cyclists.

• Decorative: Beyond safety reflective thread adds a modern and cool factor to fashion and home decor projects.

• Athletic wear: Used in sportswear for nighttime visibility for runners and outdoor enthusiasts.

For best results follow specific sewing tips to use the reflective thread in your projects.

Features:

• Very durable and weather resistant

• Lightweight so easy to wear

• Often machine sewable

Nylbond Thread

Polyester Nylbond or nylon-bonded thread is a high strength thread for heavy duty use. The bonded coating prevents fraying and increases durability for projects under stress or tension.

Uses:

• Footwear: For stitching shoes and boots that need durability and wear resistance.

• Leather goods: Used in products like handbags, wallets and belts because it can handle thick materials.

• Outdoor furniture: For strong stitching in patio chairs, hammocks and awnings.

Features:

• High tensile strength

• Abrasion resistance

• Good knot strength and low thread breakage

Aramid Thread

Aramid thread (also marketed as Kevlar®) is a flame and heat resistant thread for high performance and safety critical applications.

Unlike metallic threads which are known for their decorative properties Aramid threads are valued for their strength and durability.

Uses: machine embroidery

• Protective clothing: For firefighters, welders and industrial workers who need flame resistant gear.

• Aerospace: Used in aircraft manufacturing because of its high temperature resistance.

• Reinforced stitching: Unbeatable durability in climbing gear and heavy duty tarps.

Features:

• Flame resistant and stable under heat

• High strength to weight ratio

• Long lasting and resistant to chemicals and environmental damage

Anti-UV Thread

Anti-UV thread is designed to resist degradation caused by UV light. It’s perfect for outdoor use where standard threads may weaken with sun exposure. Although durable Anti-UV thread can also be soft so it’s great for outdoor gear that needs both strength and comfort.

Uses: decorative stitching

• Outdoor furniture: Stitching will remain intact even after years of sun exposure.

• Marine upholstery: For boat covers, sails and other water exposed items.

• Awnings and tents: Protects stitching in sun exposed areas.

Features:

• UV resistance prevents fading and weakening

• Moisture resistant and durable

• Tensile strength in harsh outdoor conditions

Marine Thread

Marine thread as the name suggests is designed to withstand marine environments including saltwater, wind and UV. It’s a must have thread for professionals working on boat projects. Brands like WonderFil Specialty Threads offers high quality marine threads that can withstand the harsh marine conditions.

Uses:

• Boat canopy stitching: Durable under wind and water pressure.

• Sail repair: Tight and long lasting seams in sails under constant stress.

• Fishing gear: For stitching nets and other equipment that comes in contact with seawater.

Features:

• Saltwater corrosion resistant

• UV stabilized for outdoor use

• Mold and mildew resistant

Canvas Thread

Canvas thread is thick and durable and used for heavy duty applications. It’s great with canvas, denim and other heavy weight fabrics.

Canvas thread is also great for hand work, provides the strength needed for detailed and durable stitching.

Uses:

• Tents and tarps: Robust stitching for outdoor use.

• Industrial sewing: For heavy duty bags, covers and upholstery.

• Custom projects: For backpacks, storage solutions and decorative items that requires sturdy thread.

Features:

• Excellent strength and stretch resistance

• Industrial sewing machine compatible

• Clean finish for heavy weight fabrics

Bottom Thread

Bottom thread is the underneath thread in sewing machines. It may not get as much attention as other threads but it’s crucial for balanced and secure stitches. Bottom thread is also good for hand quilting, provides the strength and consistency needed for detailed quilting projects.

Uses:

• Machine embroidery: For smooth and even stitch tension during decorative stitching.

• Garment manufacturing: Used on sewing machines to make sturdy seams.

• Quilting and crafts: For attractive and functional stitches for various fabric projects.

Features:

• Fine texture and high tensile strength

• Smooth operation in machines

• Consistent stitch quality

Choosing the Right Wonderfil Specialty Threads

Choose the right specialty thread for your project. Consider the environment (indoor vs outdoor), durability required and aesthetic. For example:

• Use reflective thread for high visibility garments.

• Nylbond thread for heavy duty seams.

• Bottom thread for machine embroidery.

• Specialty threads for free motion quilting to take your quilting projects to the next level.

Conclusion

Specialty threads are designed for specific industries and creative pursuits. Whether you’re making professional grade safety gear or a personal sewing project, choosing the right specialty thread is key to success.

Ready to take your projects to the next level and create durable and beautiful designs? Check out our specialty threads. From decorative stitching to marine upholstery we have a thread for every use.