The Strongest Sewing Thread Is …
by Kelsi Watts: 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.
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 asthetic appeal of thick extra strength threads.
Strong thread is called heavy duty thread
Outside of industrial applications the strongest thread available for use in home sewing projects is called heavy duty thread. Modern heavy duty thread most often has a core made of a strong material wrapped in a more traditional thread material. Heavy duty thread is ideal for use with embroidery sewing projects.
Typical maxi-lock all purpose thread weight
Thread weight is a measurement of length and the lower the number the heavier the thread. Typical maxi-lock thread is 40 weight, meaning that 40 kilometers of 40 weight thread would weigh 1kg.
A 30 weight thread would be heavier and only require 30 kilometers to weight the same. 40 weight maxi-lock thread works best with a 90/14 size needle.
Most sewing machines need upper and lower thread
Most sewing machines need upper and lower thread to form stitches. The lower thread is located in the bobbin below the presser foot and serves to lock individual stitches.
Some machines, however, have been designed to work without a lower thread but these machines are considered difficult to use in comparison.
Popular thread for serger sewing machines
The most popular thread used in serger sewing machines is Polyester thread because of it’s strength, durability and flexibility. Some sewing projects require a specific thread type, such as nylon or cotton thread, but most do not.
Polyester thread also has the benefit of being slightly less expensive and more durable overall.
About quilting with regular thread
You can quilt with regular thread, I often use a fine, strong two-ply 50 or 60 weight thread for piecing. I find that it allows me to sew true quarter inch seams. 50 weight thread works but you can sometimes see your stitches so use the 60 weight, or even bigger 80 or 100 weight thread, when possible.
Thread Colors are (almost) universal
Ordering thread of a specific color from a color card that fails to match your fabric can be frustrating. Thankfully thread manufacturers pay attention to the fabric colors of competitors more now than ever. As a result, most thread colors are universal between brands and, most often, what you see on a color card is exactly what you get.
Overlock sewing thread (info and benefits)
Overlocking thread is a fine, smooth and relatively strong sewing thread designed to be used for sewing at high speeds. It can be used on the overlocker needle or looper, it’s interchangeable. All purpose overlock thread is most widely available for 250m and 1000m bobbins as well as 7500m thread cones.
How to spot good bobbin thread
Good bobbin thread is as strong as any sewing machine top thread. Go ahead and compare their tensile strength by seeing how easily they break. Pull the bobbin thread tight and scratch it lightly to see if it frays. Good bobbin thread should not be any more breakable than standard high quality thread.
