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Embroidery is a great way to decorate fabrics and make them look beautiful.
If you are trying to embroider some fabric but don’t have an embroidery thread at the moment, you must be wondering can you use a sewing thread for embroidery instead?
The answer is yes, you can!
In this article, we will discuss using sewing thread for embroidery and everything related.
Is it okay to use sewing thread for embroidery?
Yes, you can use sewing thread for embroidery. It is completely okay and you will get the job done.
However, you will see a slight difference in the final finish of the embroidery. The sewing thread is thin whereas the embroidery thread is thick. That’s why the embroidery design made with a sewing thread might not be the same as that made with an embroidery thread.
But overall, a sewing thread is a great alternative to embroidery thread and you can try it without any worries.
Is sewing thread the same as embroidery thread?
No, sewing thread is not the same as embroidery thread. They are two different things built for different purposes.
Embroidery thread Vs Sewing thread
Embroidery threads are made thick and soft to ensure good maneuvering during needlework. They are strong because they have to repeatedly move in & out of the fabric. Embroidery threads are available in different colors and sizes ranging from 30 to 60.
On the other hand, sewing threads are thin, fragile, and lightweight. It’s because sewing threads need to quickly move through the sewing machine without causing knots. That’s why they are kept thin and light. Sewing threads are mostly used for sewing but you can also use them for embroidering fabric.
Can you use sewing thread for hand embroidery?
Yes, sewing threads can be used for hand embroidery. However, you need to keep a few things in your mind before doing this.
Sewing threads are thin and light as compared to embroidery threads. So, if you will use them for embroidering fabric, you might get a thinner embroidery result. To counter this issue, you should double or triple the strands of sewing thread.
This way you can not only get results similar to an embroidery thread but you will also make the thread stronger so it does not break frequently.
Never forget to check the type of fabric before doing anything. If you are going to perform hand embroidery on a tough fabric, it is safe to insert double or triple strands of sewing thread into the needle’s eye. But if you are going to work on a delicate fabric, you should avoid doubling or tripling the thread because it can create holes in the fabric and damage your clothes.
Can you use sewing thread for machine embroidery?
Yes, sewing thread can be used for machine embroidery. It will give you satisfactory results.
But there are two complications you need to keep in mind:
- The sewing thread may start piling up inside your embroidery machine.
- Since the sewing thread is thin and weak as compared to the embroidery thread, it might break too frequently during the process.
How to perform embroidering with sewing thread?
Embroidering with sewing thread is done the same way as embroidery thread. You just have to use the sewing thread in place of embroidery thread and the rest of the process will remain the same.
Here are some tips that will help you:
1- Double the strands to get better results
As you know that the sewing thread is thin and delicate, you might not get the expected embroidery results after using it on fabric. Your design may look dull.
That’s why you need to thread the needle’s eye with double or triple layers of sewing thread.
Now when you perform embroidering, you will achieve a dense and beautiful design.
2- Check the type of fabric
The type of fabric you are working on also holds good significance.
If the fabric is thick, you don’t need to worry about anything.
But if the fabric is thin and fragile, then you must avoid using double or triple layers of sewing thread because it will create holes in the fabric and ruin your entire design.
Is sewing thread better than embroidery thread?
When you are embroidering a fabric, your priority should be getting an embroidery thread. It is the best.
The reason is that embroidery threads are specially made soft, thick, and strong so you can achieve a perfect design on the fabric.
However, if you do not have access to an embroidery thread at the moment, then you can use the sewing thread as an alternative.
Can you use a sewing needle for embroidery?
Yes, you can use regular sewing needles.
Usually, embroidery requires a special type of needles and threads. However, you can still use a regular sewing needle for embroidery.
The special needles made for embroidery got wider eyes as compared to the regular needles. The wider eyes ensure there is enough space for the thread in the needle so it does not break or fray frequently.
When should you use sewing thread for embroidery?
You can use a sewing thread for embroidery when you don’t have an embroidery thread available. It is a great alternative that can get you very satisfactory results.
But if you have an embroidery thread available, then it should be your first choice for embroidery.
The reason is that embroidery threads are thick, strong, and soft. They maneuver in & out of clothes very easily and don’t fray or break frequently. That’s why it is the best choice for embroidery.
Which threads are commonly used for embroidery?
Here is a list of some of the best threads used for embroidery:
1- Silk thread
It is a luxury thread with a fine texture. Silk thread does not fray or break while embroidering. It adds an extra charm to your design.
2- Rayon thread
It is ideal for adding a finishing touch to an embroidery design. The wonderful colors make your design attractive to the eyes.
3- Polyester thread
Polyester is one of the most used threads thanks to its affordable price. This thread has strong resistance against bleeding, shrinkage, and fading. It does not break easily and that’s why it is a perfect choice for designs requiring strong protection.
4- Cotton thread
Cotton thread is commonly used on embroidery machines because it moves very fast.
5- Sashiko thread
As the name suggests, Sashiko thread is made and used in Japan. It is very thick and durable.
