Thread Colors Are (almost) universal
by Kelsi Watts: Thread colors are a standard way of identifying and organizing different types of threads. The colors are typically chosen based on their ability to be easily seen and distinguished from one another.
In most cases, the colors used for threads are consistent across different manufacturers and styles of thread, making it easy to identify and organize them. Some common thread colors include white, black, red, blue, green, and yellow.
Serger thread doesn’t need to match
Serger sewing thread doesn’t need to match every color in your fabric. You will most often get eye pleasing results when matching only one color. Alternatively, you can use a base color from the same range of colors that matches none of them exactly. Tip: Focus on lighter colors when no match is available because stronger colors draw the eye to them.
Thread matching, learn how it’s done
Thread matching is the process of choosing the right thread to use with your sewing fabric. For color matching choose a thread that is one shade darker than the fabric to be sewn. For best results match thread fiber type with fabric fiber type.
Thread weight selection has been made simple, match the rating on it’s label with that of the fabric’s rating.
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.
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.
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.
All bobbins don’t fit all sewing machines, but most do!
Sewing machine bobbins come in different sizes, can be made of metal or plastic, and may be empty or pre-wound with thread.
The vast majority of sewing machines can only use one bobbin size and, thankfully, most use the same size making them interchangeable. Consult your machine’s manual to be sure.
Engage your thread guide to keep thread in place
The thread guide on your home sewing machine is a small metal hook-shaped ring typically located on the upper needle assembly. By running thread through the thread guide it is kept in place during the sewing process.
Engage the thread guide to keep the thread moving smoothly between the spool and needle and to avoid frustrating tangles.
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 or frays you may want to use a higher quality thread with your sewing machine to avoid frustrating thread breaks.
Best overlock thread colors to use
For ease of use try to match the tone of a fabric but not necessarily when choosing overlock thread. Example: Use a medium green thread in an overlock stich over a dark green fabric. The benefit of this approach is that the slight contrast makes it easy to see where your overlock stich threads lay.
