Popular Thread For Serger Sewing Machines
by Kelsi Watts: Some of the most popular thread brands for serger sewing machines include Gutermann, Madeira, and Mettler. These brands are known for their high-quality serger thread, which is specifically designed for use with overlock and serger sewing machines.
Serger thread is typically made from strong, durable materials, such as polyester or nylon, and is available in a wide range of colors. Additionally, serger thread is often pre-wound on special cones or spools that are designed to fit easily on serger sewing machines.
When shopping for serger thread, it's a good idea to choose a reputable brand that is known for producing high-quality thread.
The strongest sewing thread is …
Nylon thread is considered the strongest sewing thread due to its high strength to weight ratio. Nylon thread is a great choice for stitching upholstery, leather, and vinyl. For smooth stitches while sewing at high speed use Nylon thread treated with a friction reducer.
Zigzag vs straight stitch strength(s)
A straight sewing stitch is strong because it focuses all of 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 it's strength. However, in terms of durability, the zigzag stich is more durable overall.
The best thread for embroidery
Stranded cotton thread, sometimes called embroidery floss, is the preferred thread for embroidery. It is the most commonly used thread on embroidery projects, including cross stitch, because of durability and ease of use. 6 individual strands of fine cotton thread are combined to make a single embroidery floss.

The best thread type for your sewing machine
Polyester thread is best to use for sewing synthetic fabric on your sewing machine. This is because Polyester can stretch a small amount making it more forgiving than cotton.
Also, Polyester thread is less likely to shrink when compared with cotton thread. For natural fabric, cotton thread with a Polyester core works extremely well.
How to identify Polyester thread
Identifying polyester thread is simple - Reading the label will typically tell you of your thread contains nylon, cotton or polyester. However, if there is no label, carefully burning the thread end in a well ventilated area works for identification purposes because Polyester thread melts, it doesn't burn.
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.
Maxi-lock thread is popular (but is it good?)
Maxi-Lock thread is a brand of sewing thread made by 'American and Efird co'. It is a popular thread choice with home tailors who prefer using a serger sewing machine. Maxi-lock thread is 100% polyester, exceptionally soft, is available in dozens of vibrant colors and lends itself well to high-speed sewing. Yes, it's good thread.
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.
Sewing vs embroidery thread
Embroidery thread is more decorative in appearance when compared with regular sewing thread. Embroidering thread is typically shinier, with more vibrant colors, and is available in more textures than sewing thread. As a result, regular sewing thread is generally stronger and more durable than embroidery specific thread whether it's cotton or polyester.