Using All-purpose thread while quilting
by Kelsi Watts: It is possible to use all-purpose thread for quilting, but it may not be the best choice. All-purpose thread is designed for general sewing and is not as strong or durable as quilting thread, which is specifically designed for use in quilting.
Quilting thread is typically made from long-staple cotton or polyester and is much stronger and more resistant to breakage than all-purpose thread. Using quilting thread can help ensure that your quilt holds up over time and doesn't break or unravel.
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.
Thread types (and number) to use on a serger
Regular thread DOES work on a serger sewing machine, but will run out more quickly. The number of threads to use at one time depends on the machine. A 2-4 serger sewing machine requires two to four threads, depending on setting.
Likewise a 3-4 Serger requires a minimum of three and maximum of four threads and a 5 thread serger machine requires five threads.
Amount of thread needed to make a quilt (chart)
The quilting fabric chart below represents the average amount of thread needed to make a good quality quilt.
| Quilt Size | Light Quilting | Heavy Quilting |
|---|---|---|
| Twin Size | 400 yds. | 1,200 yds. |
| Queen Size | 600 yds. | 1,600 yds. |
| King Size | 750 yds. | 2,000 yds. |
About 'Moon' brand thread
Moon is the brand name of a popular thread manufactured by Coats inc. Moon Thread is made of all-purpose spun polyester ideal for sewing by hand or in consumer machine sewing(including overlockers). Moon thread is available in 150 colors and each reel contains 1000yds (915m) of thread.
Using regular sewing thread for embroidery
You can use regular sewing threads for your hand stitching. The results are much like working with embroidery threads and yield a distinct appearance. Don't be afraid to use regular thread with most embroidery projects for a distinctive finish.
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 meaning of thread 'Tex'
Thread Tex refers to its weight. Tex is a measurement system that uses 1,000 meters of thread per gram as the starting point. If 1,000 meters of thread weighs one gram it is labeled 'Tex 1'.
If it weighed 5 grams it would be labeled Tex 5. Fine(light) threads thus have a low Tex number and thick(heavy) threads have a higher Tex number.
Sewing thread size, fabric and needle chart
This sewing thread size chart quickly suggests the best thread size to use with different fabric weights. It also suggests the best needle size to use with the thread.
| Thread Weight(Size) | Fabric Type | Needle Size |
|---|---|---|
| 80-50 wt. | Light Fabric | 60/8, 65/9, 70/10, 75/11 |
| 50-40 wt. | Medium Fabric | 75/11, 80/12, 90/14 |
| 40-20 wt. | Heavy Fabric | 100/16, 110/18, 120/19 |
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.
