How To Spot Good Bobbin Thread
Look for bobbin thread that is made from high-quality, strong and durable fibers.
This will ensure that the thread can withstand the high tensions and fast speeds of the sewing machine without breaking or tangling.
Look for bobbin thread that has been designed specifically for use in sewing machines, as this type of thread will have a smooth and even finish, which will help to prevent skipped stitches and other common sewing machine problems.
You should consider the weight and thickness of the bobbin thread, as this will determine its compatibility with your sewing machine and the type of fabric you will be using.
Simple trick for testing thread quality
Hold a length of thread between your thumb and finger and press against the thread lightly with your thumbnail.
Pull the thread gently and let your nail lightly ‘scratch’ the thread.
A high quality thread will remain tightly bound, but a low quality thread will develop small, broken and loose fibers that point outwards.
Spotting a good quality sewing thread
Sewing machines require good quality sewing thread to work optimally.
You can spot good quality thread by giving it a good pull and by lightly scratching at it with a fingernail. If the thread breaks, you will want to use a higher quality thread with your sewing machine to avoid those frustrating thread breaks.
How to thread your sewing machine needle
- Place a spool of sewing thread on your machine
- Pull the thread out and wind it around your bobbin
- Put the bobbin on your machine’s bobbin pin
- Engage the bobbin winder by pressing the pedal
- Cut and wrap the spool thread around the guide
- Pull the thread down around the catch
- Wrap the thread around the take-up lever
- Lastly, thread the needle and drop in your bobbin
Extra strong thread use in sewing machines
Heavy threads are absolutely stunning to work with.
Whether hand quilting stand-out stitches or machine quilting bold outlines, the beautiful textural effects of thick, strong thread is appealing.
While it’s certainly important to consider thread strength requirements for structural purposes, don’t forget the aesthetic appeal of thick extra strength threads.
You can use any thread in a bobbin
Quality of thread makes a difference, however, any thread can be used to fill a bobbin.
I highly recommend using only the best quality bobbin thread you have available, but in a pinch you can use any thread in your sewing machine bobbin with good results.
Bobbin thread does not need to be the same color
When your top thread tension is properly set on your sewing machine, the bobbin thread will not be visible in the finished product.
For that reason, your bobbin thread does not need to be the same color as your top thread.
To be safe, avoid using high contrast color combinations, however, typically any bobbin thread color will work.
Zigzag vs straight stitch strength(s)
A straight sewing stitch is strong because it focuses all the fabric tension along the same axis (same line) between two pieces.
100% of the thread in a straight stitch is directly holding both pieces together.
A zigzag stitch makes the thread alternate in direction between each side, effectively increasing the amount of thread used but decreasing its strength.
However, in terms of durability, the zigzag stitch is more durable overall.
Top stitching with embroidery thread (possible)
Contrary to an old weaver’s myth, embroidery thread can be used for top stitching on a sewing machine.
Several brands of embroidery threads are available for use on standard, simple home sewing machines.
Polyester, cotton and rayon threads tend to be a bit stronger than regular embroidery thread, but all can be used for top stitching with good results.
The best all-purpose sewing thread
Before the invention of polyester thread, it was common for natural sewing thread to break frequently and inconveniently.
Today, most sewing machine thread has a polyester core that prevents thread breakage by making it slightly stretchy.
As a result, the best all-purpose thread has a polyester core or is entirely made of polyester.
