Can You Use Embroidery Thread For Quilting? Easy Guide to Quilting

Image of embtiodery thread but Can You Use Embroidery Thread For Quilting? There are multiple sides to fabric craft, and quilting is among them. The quilting concept may sound foreign to embroidery beginners, but it becomes familiar sooner or later during their journey in the sewing art. Quilting creates various art quilts, and a perfect example is bed coverings. The craft also produces different results based on your preferred patterns. However, threads are a useful attachment in the process, and most sewists ask, Can You Use Embroidery Thread For Quilting?

Yes. It is okay to use embroidery thread for quilting projects. The thread helps to create distinctive and eye-catching designs on your quilt. Additionally, whether you are using your hand or a machine, the thread is an essential accessory as it holds everything together. So, if you want to create patterns on your quilt, embroidery thread will provide the perfect outline.

The chosen embroidery thread for a quilting project should be strong, durable, and have a compatible shade with the fabric. You don’t have to hassle to get an expensive embroidery thread as the regular ones in the market will deliver desirably.

For more information about embroidery threads and the quilting art, please continue reading this piece.

Table of Contents

What Is the Difference Between Embroidery Thread and Quilting Thread?

You have the go-ahead to use an embroidery thread as you quilt. But it would be best to consider the differences between quilting and embroidery threads to choose the most suitable one for the project. Weight, content, finish, and thread strength represent the primary differences between the two thread types.

Weight

Quilting threads can have the same weight as embroidery threads. However, they have categories such as threads for top quilting and others for piercing. The threads do not add weight to the seams and are appropriate for complex blocks and paper piercing where you need multiple seams. Also, you are free to determine the thread weight for top quilting depending on your brand, job, and preferences.

Content

Embroidery threads are commonly rayon, silk, polyester, or cotton. In contrast, quilting threads are naturally 100% cotton, but you may find a polyester core covering the cotton on some occasions.

Finish

Quilting thread finishes make the thread stronger and deliver less lint. On the other hand, embroidery threads have less ply and a looser twist that delivers an excellent sheen.

Strength

Normally, a quilting thread is stronger than an embroidery one, and as such, holds the fabric together for an extended period. Therefore, you can use it for garments that should last for ‘generations to come.

On the flip side, embroidery threads cannot work for seaming projects as they do not have sufficient strength. Therefore, they make a better accessory for surface embellishment.

What Is the Best Thread to Use for Quilting?

There are quite a few thread types to select from for your sewing projects. However, there are specific ones that will give you the desired finish and look. Below are some commonly used threads for quilting.

Cotton Threads

These threads stand out as they work perfectly for quilting-related applications. They are also pretty versatile as they can withstand massive heat amounts from iron.

Cotton threads will satisfy your perfectionist craving for lingerie projects and delicate fabrics. Also, you will find cotton threads with a silk-finish, and thus add a unique touch to your work.

Moreover, since the threads glide effortlessly through the fabric, you can use them for basting, hand finishing, and gathering.

Heavy-duty Thread

Polyester is the primary material that produces heavy-duty thread. The thread, thus, works for canvas, quilting jobs, and upholstery. However, because of its weight, the thread will not do an excellent job in sewing garments.

You can also use heavy-duty thread for home decor sewing projects as they hold the material firmly.

Metallic Thread

Please consider the metallic thread for any sewing machine-related thread. The threads add flair to the top-stitch and deliver an attractive finish.

The threads come in many colors, such as gold, copper, and silver varieties. Also, they will enhance your quilting designs and thus a perfect option for creatives.

Polyester Thread

If you seek an all-purpose thread for multiple sewing and stitching works, the polyester thread is your top pick. The thread works perfectly on sewing devices and hands sewing projects without presenting issues.

It also accommodates your quilting projects as you will not experience breakage when working on stretchy knits.

The polyester thread is durable and solid and comes in multiple color shades. Sewists also enjoy the waxy silicon finish it offers, and thus the thread remains top on the list.

NB: Choosing the right thread material is a prerequisite to getting fantastic results. However, since the thread can come from many different fibers, you may have difficulty selecting what suits you.

This aspect should not worry you because a good rule of thumb will keep you ‘safe.’ The drill ensures that you match the thread content to the fabric content. For example, use polyester thread for synthetic blend materials, cotton thread for natural fabrics, and silk thread for silk materials.

Can You Quilt With Polyester Embroidery Thread?

Polyester embroidery thread is a perfect choice for various quilting projects. It accommodates long arm or home sewing quilting machines and thus a preferred go-to accessory. The thread also works well for you if you stitch in the ditch and hide the stitches.

Additionally, you want a thread that performs top-notch all the time without causing problems. The polyester embroidery thread, therefore, becomes a trusted accessory as it will not break during quilting.

What Is the Best All-Purpose Sewing Thread?

This section will help you to interact and appreciate different sewing threads in the market. You will also be able to make a quick selection for your sewing project without any difficulties. So let’s check them out!

Coats & Clark Dual Duty General Purpose Thread Set

This thread is among the best polyester threads you can ever choose for your sewing job. It features advanced technology for an unmatched sewing performance and is available in fifty 1-1/2 by 1-inch spools of 125-yards. Besides that, you can comfortably use it on hand or machine.

The accessory also comes in multiple colors to ensure that you never run out of the correct color as you quilt or sew.

Pros

The product is durable.
It is available in multi colors.

Cons

The set has a small thread amount.

Connecting Threads 100% Cotton Thread Sets

This thread set is 100% cotton which provides superior durability and luster. It is perfect for seaming, quilting, and top-stitching activities, especially on lightweight fabric. Also, if you want, you can use it on heavy-weight fabric as it is longer (1200 yards) and smoother.

These attributes make it suitable for multiple sewing applications, and the fabric content does not compromise excellent results.

Pros

The thread is durable and smooth.
It is available in more than one color.

Cons

Users complain of inconsistent quality.

Sew Complete by Superior Threads All-Purpose Polyester Thread

If you are looking for the most suitable machine thread, search no more! This thread will exceed your expectations. It is smooth and strong and accommodates various crafting, general sewing, and decorative works.

The thread set also provides eight 300-yard spools of multiple colors that offer beautiful project finishes.

Pros

The thread set is strong, smooth, and durable.
It accommodates various applications.

Cons

The product has a small spool.

LyonsBlue Polyester Sewing Thread Spool Set

The thread is available in 39 assorted colors of 200 yards each. It comes at a friendly price and is thus affordable to many beginners. You will also enjoy working with the product as it accommodates various garment sewing projects.

However, it does not work well for the machine and is only appropriate for hand or manual projects.

Pros

The set provides a wide variety of colors.
It is affordable.

Cons

You can only use the thread for hand sewing projects.

Haobase Black Bonded Nylon Sewing Thread

Haobase Black Bonded Nylon thread is common for its versatility, durability, flexibility, and resistance to rot. It also performs excellently even on heavy-weight fabric such as canvas, leather, and upholstery materials.

On top of that, the thread has an impressive length of 1,500 yards and is available in white and black colors.

Pros

The product offers a lot of thread.
It is durable and resistant to rot.

Cons

Customers complain that the thread is not well bonded.

Bonded Nylon Sewing Thread for Outdoor, Upholstery

This high-quality product is bonded for effective performance and sturdy. It takes pride in a 1,500 yards length, and you will get it in multiple colors. Also, it is ideal for upholstery and leather.

Besides that, you can use it as an outdoor sewing accessory as it is resistant to mildew, abrasion, and unfavorable weather conditions.

Pros

The thread is suitable for outdoor sewing applications.
It has a 1,500 yards length.

Some threads require special attention, and you need to know how to handle them. For example, if you come across elastic threads such as the Singer Elastic Sewing Thread Blister Card, consider the following tips.

Use a big needle with a large eye.
Please do not exceed 200 degrees Fahrenheit during ironing.
Hand wind the thread on the bobbin when using a machine.
Store the thread in a coll and dry place.
Correctly set the machine tension before working to reduce thread breakage.

What Weight Is Coats and Clark All Purpose Thread?

Coats and Clark All Purpose Thread is a common thread among sewists. It is convenient for machine and hand sewing and works on all fabrics synthetics, natural fibers, knits, and wovens. Also, its specifications are two-ply, 300 yards, and 30 weight.

How Difficult Is Embroidery?

Most sewists will attest that embroidery is not difficult to learn, especially hand embroidery craft. You require a thread, fabric, needle, and an embroidery hoop to begin embroidering.

Also, you will find iron-on patterns that you can follow or follow a knit with all the needed fabric, thread, and instructions.

On the flip side, if you are working with a sewing machine, there are three methods that you can adopt.

You can get a sewing device with decorative zigzag stitches and follow the chalk marks. But still, you need to get a stabilizer to get excellent results. A stabilizer will help you to keep the stitching from bunching; please do not ignore it.
You can also buy an embroidery unit. Such a machine requires you to change the thread, and it does the embroidery.
Finally, you may consider a sewing device with a feature that allows you to move the fabric as you stitch.

Overlockers Need Special Thread?

Overlockers require a special thread that is good quality and lint-free. Therefore, the polyester 120” s and 180” s overlocking thread is an excellent pick.

You need a special thread when working with an overlocker because of the stitch formation. An overlock stitch comes about when a needle or two penetrate the material to sew a hem while a blade trims the fabric and the looper threads wrap the clean raw edge.

The overlocker can only deliver the stitch in three ways. You can use two, three, or four threads, depending on the durability you desire.

A two-thread overlock is rare because it is not strong and won’t hold up seams for a longer period. The stitch cleanly finishes off raw edges and works well for delicate or lightweight fabrics. However, because of the limited use case, it will often not be a go-to stitch.
A three-thread overlock stitch is an excellent option for lightweight fabrics and simple edge finishing projects. It uses only one needle and provides a firm hold on the fabric. However, it has less strength compared to the four-thread stitch as it uses only one needle.

In addition, this stitch is very common as it blinds hems and finishes raw edges simultaneously.

A four-thread overlock stitch uses two needle threads that sew two rows of stitches in your fabric. They also involve the looper that wraps the edge as you sew. The stitch is suitable for medium to heavy-weight fabrics and seams that experience a lot of stress, such as fitted garments. Therefore, if you want to get a flexible and durable seam, the four-thread overlock is your go-to stitch.

Do Sergers Need Special Thread?

Sergers need a special thread that is thinner and smoother compared to what you use on a classic sewing machine. This aspect is essential as it helps you to avoid bumpy seams and stitches, and built-up lint in the machine. Also, since the thread moves through the serger at high speed, you need a smooth thread.

Although you can use normal thread in a serger machine, it is unnecessary and expensive as regular thread comes is more pricey and available in small amounts. Also, regular sewing thread is fuzzy, not strong, and runs out quickly. Therefore, unless it is an out-of-thread at midnight crisis, please use a serger thread for the serger machine.

What Is a Good Quality Overlocker Thread?

A good-quality overlocker thread is lint-free and will provide you with the best stitch results. Even though cheap threads are all over, please ensure that you do not fall into the temptation. Get a thread that will not break, fray, or compromise the stitch quality.

What Is the Best Quality Overlocker Thread?

Whenever you are not sure of what overlocker thread to use, always go for the smoothest one. Smoothness is a crucial attribute of an overlocker thread as it helps you avoid awkward situations such as bulky, lumpy, and bumpy seams. It also ensures that lint does not build up in your sewing machine.

Therefore, stay away from hairy fibers and threads as you need the thread to pass through the machine tension discs with minimum resistance. Some of the best quality overlocker threads are as follows:

Coats & Clark Thread & Zippers Surelock Overlock Thread in Oxford Grey. The overlock thread accommodates high-speed sewing and does not leave bulky seams or uneven stitches on your fabric. Its cone has 3,000 yards of thread, and it offers excellent strength.
Mettler Seracor Polyester Serger Thread 2743 Yard Cone. This thread is famous for its outstandingly impressive traits that add a lovely finish to your sewing projects. It does not shrink after washing and features a superior tensile strength to match your device’s needs. Also, it seams evenly and delivers the exact results you had dreamt of before you began sewing.
Mandala Crafts Polyester Sewing All Purpose Thread Polyester for Serger and Overlock Machine. This multipack thread does the trick on hemming, seaming, and sewing upholstery. In addition, it offers 21 other color shades that allow you to work on multiple fabrics. Also, it includes four large spools of not less than 6,000 yards.
American & Efird Maxi-Lock All Purpose Thread Large Spool Pack. This accessory is suitable for light to medium to heavy-weight materials. It is also 100% polyester and a favorite go-to thread for most sewists. The thread accommodates all your overlock projects for stitching and hemming. In addition, it is mildew and UV-light resistant, making it an excellent option for outdoor sewing projects.

Additionally, the product delivers a shiny, lustrous finish to your work, and each spool has 3,000 yards.

American & Efird Maxi-Lock Cone Royal Blue Polyester Serger Thread. The thread is popular and trendy as it 100% polyester and exceptionally soft. It delivers a stylish finish to your projects and avails multiple color selections. Besides that, it is mildew resistant and UV-light tolerant and guarantees you superior durability.

Just a reminder: Ensure that you always factor in the fabric weight as you choose the overlocker thread. For instance, if you are working with a medium-weight material, please consider a medium-weight thread. Also, if you go for a thick thread, be sure to be working on a heavy-weight material.

Additionally, light threads cannot hold up seams in heavy-weight fabrics, while thick threads may ruin a lightweight material. Therefore, choose wisely!

Do You Really Need an Overlocker?

Although overlockers are significant if you want a super professional finish, they are not mandatory. They are a good investment to provide an expert look, but they are quite expensive, and you may consider alternative methods of doing your work. However, if you insist and are a prolific jersey sewer, you can get it.

Additionally, an overlocker will not replace your sewing machine. Rather, it will serve as an additional machine for delivering professional hems. But, you can sew at least 80% of the garment using the machine, and it is not such a bad idea.

What Can I Use if I Don’t Have an Overlocker?

A double overedge stitch is a suitable option if you do not have an overlocker. The stitch sews zigzag stitches in double rows: one on the fabric’s edge and connects to a straight line stitch. We compare it to an overlocker because sewists use the stitch to finish and sew a seam in one instance. Also, just like overlockers, it is suitable for fabrics that fray.

Is there a Sewing Machine With Built-in Overlocker?

Yes. You will find sewing machines that will deliver overlock stitches. They have a function that allows you to do edging, hemming, and other assignments done by overlockers. The Janome brand has produced such a machine, but it is quite pricey.

Conclusion

Quitting and embroidery vary in how they deliver their results. Quilting mostly focuses on sewing garments, while embroidery is more about creating patterns and decorative stitches. Also, the two crafts require different threads. For example, you need a quilting thread in quilt craft, whereas as an embroider, you need embroidery thread. The differences are quite obvious, but there is a question that persists among sewists,