Quilting is a beloved craft that requires the right tools and materials to achieve beautiful results. One of the most crucial components of quilting is the thread used to sew the fabric pieces together. The best thread for quilting must be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of use, yet gentle enough to avoid damaging the delicate fabric.
When shopping for the best thread for quilting, one critical factor to consider is the weight of the thread. Quilting thread comes in various weights, ranging from 30 to 100. The higher the number, the finer the thread. A finer thread weight is ideal for intricate quilting designs, while a heavier thread weight is better suited for basting and machine quilting.
Another important consideration when choosing the best thread for quilting is the material. Cotton thread is the most popular choice for quilting because it is strong, durable, and widely available. However, polyester thread is also a viable option because it is stronger than cotton and resists breaking. Some quilters also prefer silk thread because of its sheen and smoothness, but it can be more expensive than other options.
To find the best thread for quilting, you should also pay attention to the color. The thread color should complement the fabric color and not stand out or distract from the quilt’s design. It is best to choose a neutral color that blends in with the fabric, such as beige or gray.
In this article, we will review the best thread for quilting based on weight, material, and color. We will also provide recommendations for different types of quilting projects, including hand quilting, machine quilting, and long-arm quilting. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced quilter, you will find the perfect thread for your quilting needs.
Best Threads for Quilting
If you’re a quilter, you know how important it is to have the right thread for your project. The thread you choose can make or break the final product. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best thread for your quilting project. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best threads for quilting to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, we’ve got you covered.
Aurifil 50WT Thread Pack
If you’re looking for a high-quality thread pack for your quilting needs, Aurifil 50WT Thread Pack is a great choice.
Pros
- Each spool contains 1422 yards, making it a great value for money.
- Made of 100% Mercerized Long Staple Egyptian Cotton, this thread is very smooth and strong.
- The neutral colors in this pack make it versatile and easy to use for a variety of quilting projects.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the thread is prone to breaking during use.
- The thread may not be suitable for heavy-duty quilting projects.
- The price point may be higher than other thread options on the market.
This thread pack is a premium quilt shop quality thread that is perfect for machine embroidery, quilting, and serging. The Mako Cotton 50wt thread is the finest of the Mako threads, making it very smooth and strong. The pack includes 1 spool each of White 2024, Dove 2600, and Light Beige 2310, which are neutral colors that work well with a variety of quilt projects.
One of the benefits of this thread pack is that each spool contains 1422 yards, providing great value for money. The 100% Mercerized Long Staple Egyptian Cotton construction also makes the thread very smooth and strong, ensuring that it will hold up well during use.
Some users have reported that the thread is prone to breaking during use, which may be a concern for some quilters. Additionally, the thread may not be suitable for heavy-duty quilting projects due to its lightweight construction.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality thread pack that provides great value for money and is versatile enough for a variety of quilt projects, the Aurifil 50WT Thread Pack is a great choice.
Connecting Threads 100% Cotton Thread Sets
If you’re looking for a reliable thread set for your quilting projects, Connecting Threads 100% Cotton Thread Sets might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The set includes 10 spools of 50-weight thread made from three plies of 100% cotton, each with 1,200 yards of thread, providing you with a large quantity of thread for your projects.
- The extra-long staple cotton produces a smoother thread with less lint, making it easier to work with.
- The thread is satin-finished for a gently lustrous sheen, adding an elegant touch to your quilts.
Cons
- The set only includes basic red, orange, purple, green, and blue thread colors, limiting your color options.
- Some users reported that the thread sheds a lot, requiring frequent cleaning of the sewing machine.
- The spool is too long to fit on some sewing machine spindles, making it difficult to use with certain machines.
Connecting Threads 100% Cotton Thread Sets are great for all levels of quilting and sewing projects, from beginner to professional. With its smooth texture, satin finish, and large quantity, this thread set can help you create beautiful quilts with ease. However, keep in mind that the limited color options and shedding issues might be a drawback for some users.
Simthread Quilting Thread Set
If you’re looking for an all-purpose cotton thread for quilting, piecing, and embroidery, the Simthread Quilting Thread Set might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- The thread is made of 100% long staple Mercerized Cotton, which makes it stronger and more lustrous.
- The set includes 12 neutral colors that are great for daily usage, and each spool has 550 yards of thread.
- The thread is environmentally friendly and can be used for common sewing, including baby clothes.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the thread is very thin and not as expected.
- The spools are about 4 inches tall, which is smaller than other quilting thread sets.
- The thread may not be suitable for heavy-duty sewing projects.
If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile quilting thread set, the Simthread Quilting Thread Set might be a good option for you. The 100% long staple Mercerized Cotton makes the thread stronger and more lustrous, and the set includes 12 neutral colors that are perfect for daily usage. The thread is also environmentally friendly, which is a plus for those who are conscious about their carbon footprint. However, some customers have reported that the thread is very thin and not as expected, and the spools are smaller than other quilting thread sets. Overall, if you’re looking for an all-purpose cotton thread for quilting, piecing, and embroidery, the Simthread Quilting Thread Set is definitely worth considering.
Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread
If you’re looking for a high-quality thread for quilting, Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread is a great choice.
Pros
- Made of 100% Long Staple Mercerized Egyptian Cotton, which is strong and durable.
- Suitable for machine embroidery, quilting, and serging.
- Comes in a large spool, so you won’t have to replace it frequently.
Cons
- May be a bit pricey compared to other threads.
- Some users have reported that it may break more easily than other threads.
- Limited color options.
Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread is a premium thread that is perfect for quilting. It is made of 100% Long Staple Mercerized Egyptian Cotton, which makes it strong and durable. This thread is suitable for machine embroidery, quilting, and serging, so you can use it for a variety of projects. The large spool size means you won’t have to replace it frequently, which is a plus.
One potential downside of this thread is that it may be a bit pricey compared to other options. Additionally, some users have reported that it may break more easily than other threads. Finally, the color options are somewhat limited, which may be a drawback for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality thread for quilting, Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread is definitely worth considering. It is strong, durable, and versatile, making it a great choice for a variety of projects.
New brothread – 18 Options – Multi-Purpose 100% Mercerized Cotton Threads 50S/3 600M(660Y) Each Spool for Quilting, Serger, Sewing and Embroidery – 24 Basic Colors
If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality thread for your quilting projects, New brothread’s Mercerized Cotton Threads might be just what you need.
Pros
- Made from high-quality, extra-long staple cotton, this thread is stronger than normal cotton and has a smoother surface, less lint, and greater luster.
- With 600M (660Y) per spool, this multi-purpose thread is a great value and can be used for quilting, serging, piecing, machine sewing, hand sewing, heavy machine embroidery, and light hand embroidery.
- This thread is especially suitable for natural fabrics like cotton and linen, as it has almost the same washing shrinkage rate as natural fabric and can avoid causing puckering after washing.
Cons
- This thread is thicker than normal 40WT sewing or embroidery thread, so you’ll need to use needles with large eyes (≥80/12) to prevent stripping.
- The cotton threads do not stretch a great deal like polyester or nylon threads, so you’ll need to slow down the stitching speed when you have breaking problems.
- The spool with locking base resists thread tangling, but if your regular sewing machines haven’t horizontal spool feed and you want to use the snapping spool, you’ll need an upright thread stand to help lead the thread from snapping spools to your machines.
New brothread’s Mercerized Cotton Threads are a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile thread that can be used for a variety of projects. The thread is made from high-quality cotton and has a smoother surface, less lint, and greater luster than normal cotton thread. With 600M (660Y) per spool, this thread is a great value, and it can be used for quilting, serging, piecing, machine sewing, hand sewing, heavy machine embroidery, and light hand embroidery. This thread is especially suitable for natural fabrics like cotton and linen, as it has almost the same washing shrinkage rate as natural fabric and can avoid causing puckering after washing.
However, it’s important to note that this thread is thicker than normal 40WT sewing or embroidery thread, so you’ll need to use needles with large eyes (≥80/12) to prevent stripping. Additionally, the cotton threads do not stretch a great deal like polyester or nylon threads, so you’ll need to slow down the stitching speed when you have breaking problems. Finally, while the spool with locking base resists thread tangling, if your regular sewing machines haven’t horizontal spool feed and you want to use the snapping spool, you’ll need an upright thread stand to help lead the thread from snapping spools to your machines.
Aurifil Light Beige Thread
If you want accurate seam allowances and a versatile thread for all your quilting needs, the Aurifil Light Beige Thread is a great choice.
Pros
- Achieve accurate seam allowances with this virtually lint-free thread.
- Versatile thread that can be used for machine and hand piecing, hand and machine applique, machine embroidery, and machine quilting.
- Comes in a pack of three large spools, providing a good value for your money.
Cons
- Some users may find the price point to be higher than other thread options.
- The light beige color may not be suitable for all quilting projects.
- May require adjusting the tension on your machine for optimal results.
If you’re looking for a thread that will give you consistent results and can be used for various quilting techniques, the Aurifil Light Beige Thread is a great option. With its virtually lint-free composition, you can achieve accurate seam allowances without worrying about excess fuzz building up in your machine. Additionally, the thread’s thinness makes it ideal for hand applique, where precision is key.
One of the standout features of this thread is its versatility. It can be used for machine and hand piecing, as well as machine and hand applique. The thread’s fine weight also makes it a great choice for machine embroidery, where you want the fabric to be the star of the show and the thread to disappear. Finally, the Aurifil Light Beige Thread is perfect for quilting projects that require a lot of backtracking, such as feather designs or heavy background quilting, as it creates texture without drawing attention away from the fabric.
While the price point may be higher than other thread options, the Aurifil Light Beige Thread’s quality and versatility make it worth the investment. Keep in mind that the light beige color may not be suitable for all quilting projects, so you may want to consider other color options if you’re working on a project with darker or brighter fabrics. Additionally, you may need to adjust the tension on your machine for optimal results, but once you find the right setting, you’ll be able to achieve beautiful, consistent stitches every time.
Connecting Threads Essential Thread
If you’re looking for a reliable and cost-effective thread for your quilting projects, Connecting Threads Essential Thread might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- Made from 100% cotton, which produces less lint and results in a smoother thread.
- Satin-finished for a lustrous sheen, giving your quilts a professional look.
- Large yardage cones in basic colors, including white, are perfect for all levels of quilting and sewing projects.
Cons
- Some users have reported breakage issues.
- Only available in basic colors, limiting your options.
- Not suitable for heavy-duty projects.
Connecting Threads Essential Thread is a great option for quilters who want a reliable and cost-effective thread. Made from 100% cotton, this thread produces less lint and results in a smoother thread, making it perfect for quilting. The satin finish gives your quilts a professional look, while the large yardage cones in basic colors, including white, are perfect for all levels of quilting and sewing projects.
However, some users have reported breakage issues with this thread, so it might not be the best option for heavy-duty projects. Additionally, the limited color options might not suit everyone’s needs. Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly thread for your quilting projects, Connecting Threads Essential Thread is definitely worth considering.
Superior Threads Omni 40-Weight Polyester Sewing Quilting Thread Cone 6000 Yard (Natural White)
If you’re looking for a durable thread that can withstand high-speed quilting, Superior Threads Omni 40-Weight Polyester Sewing Quilting Thread is a great option.
Pros
- Made from 2 plies of 100% polyester, this thread is designed to be durable and able to withstand the rigors of high-speed quilting with fewer interruptions of broken threads and skipped stitches.
- A cleaner, brighter, and stronger alternative to other poly-wrapped poly core threads, OMNI has become a favorite go-to thread for longarm quilters.
- OMNI is designed for longarm machine quilting, high-quality apparel and clothing construction, and serger applications.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the thread produces more lint than they would like.
- A few reviewers have mentioned that the color of the thread they received was slightly different than what they expected.
- While the thread is strong, some users have reported that it can be prone to tangling or knotting.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable thread that can stand up to high-speed quilting, Superior Threads Omni 40-Weight Polyester Sewing Quilting Thread is a great option. Just be aware that it may produce more lint than some other threads, and be prepared to deal with the occasional tangle or knot.
Coats & Clark Professional Machine Quilting Thread
If you’re looking for a high-quality quilting thread, Coats & Clark Professional Machine Quilting Thread is a great option.
Pros
- With 3000 yards of thread, this spool will last you a long time, so you won’t have to change it out as frequently.
- Made of extra-long staple Egyptian cotton, this thread is both strong and lustrous.
- The 100% mercerized cotton fiber content is ideal for machine quilting and piecing on a conventional sewing machine or a long arm machine.
Cons
- This thread may create a lot of lint in your sewing machine.
- Some users found that the spool was larger than they expected.
- The price of this thread can fluctuate quite a bit, so it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Coats & Clark Professional Machine Quilting Thread is a great choice for quilters who want a reliable and high-quality thread. With 3000 yards of thread, you won’t have to change it out as frequently as you would with smaller spools, and the extra-long staple Egyptian cotton makes it both strong and lustrous. The 100% mercerized cotton fiber content is ideal for machine quilting and piecing on a conventional sewing machine or a long arm machine.
One potential downside of this thread is that it may create a lot of lint in your sewing machine, so you’ll want to make sure to clean your machine regularly. Additionally, some users found that the spool was larger than they expected, so make sure you have enough space to store it. Finally, the price of this thread can fluctuate quite a bit, so it’s worth keeping an eye on if you’re on a budget.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality quilting thread that will last you a long time, Coats & Clark Professional Machine Quilting Thread is definitely worth considering.
Coats & Clark Hand Quilting Thread – Cotton Covered Polyester -325 Yards – S960-3 Pack Bundle with 3 Bella’s Crafts Needle Threaders (Natural)
If you are looking for an all-purpose hand-quilting thread, Coats & Clark Hand Quilting Thread is a great option. Here are the pros and cons of this product:
Pros
- The thread is designed as a strong, all-purpose hand-quilting thread for use on all fabrics.
- The polished glacé finish prevents tangling, knotting, or twisting while hand sewing.
- The cotton-covered polyester thread is wrapped in 32% cotton and 68% polyester core, making it durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- The recommended needle size is 7, 8, 9, or 10, which may limit the use of this thread for some quilters.
- The thread weight is 25, which may not be suitable for all types of quilting projects.
- Some users have reported that the thread tends to tangle and break easily.
Coats & Clark Hand Quilting Thread comes in a 3-pack bundle with Bella’s Crafts Needle Threaders, making it a great value for the price. The trap spool keeps the thread storage tidy, and the glacé finish also reduces abrasion on the thread, which can cause fraying.
Overall, if you are looking for a strong and durable all-purpose hand-quilting thread, Coats & Clark Hand Quilting Thread is a good choice. However, it may not be suitable for all types of quilting projects, and some users have reported issues with tangling and breaking.
Coats Dual Duty Plus Hand Quilting Thread
If you’re looking for a strong all-purpose hand quilting thread, you might want to consider the Coats Dual Duty Plus Hand Quilting Thread.
Pros
- This thread is designed for use with all fabrics, making it versatile.
- Its glace finish prevents tangling, knotting, and twisting while hand sewing.
- The trap spool keeps thread storage tidy, and the green spools are easily identifiable.
Cons
- The glace finish can make the thread stiff, which may not be ideal for some quilters.
- The thread is only available in a limited range of colors.
- Some users have reported that the thread is prone to breaking.
This thread is manufactured in Mexico and contains 325 yards per spool. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 244 customer reviews.
In terms of performance, the Coats Dual Duty Plus Hand Quilting Thread is strong and durable, making it suitable for a range of quilting projects. However, some users have reported that the glace finish can make the thread stiff, which may not be ideal for some quilters. Additionally, the limited range of colors may be a drawback for those who require a broader selection.
Overall, if you’re looking for a strong and reliable all-purpose hand quilting thread, the Coats Dual Duty Plus Hand Quilting Thread is worth considering. However, if you require a softer or more varied thread, you may want to explore other options.
Aurifil Mako 50wt Thread 2 Large Spools: Light Beige (2310×2) 2-Pack – Light Beige 2310
If you’re looking for a high-quality thread for your quilting projects, the Aurifil Mako 50wt Thread is a great choice.
Pros
- The thread is made of 100% cotton, which makes it perfect for every quilting project, from hand applique to machine quilting.
- The bundle includes multiple spools in various colors, which gives you more options to choose from.
- The thread is made in Italy, which ensures its high quality and durability.
Cons
- The price of the thread may be a bit high for some people.
- The quantity of thread in each spool may not be enough for larger quilting projects.
- The thread may not be suitable for all types of fabrics.
If you’re willing to invest in a high-quality thread for your quilting projects, the Aurifil Mako 50wt Thread is definitely worth considering. This 100% cotton thread is perfect for both hand and machine quilting, and the bundle includes multiple spools in various colors, which gives you more options to choose from. Additionally, the thread is made in Italy, which ensures its high quality and durability.
However, the price of the thread may be a bit high for some people, and the quantity of thread in each spool may not be enough for larger quilting projects. Additionally, the thread may not be suitable for all types of fabrics. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality thread that will help you create beautiful quilts, the Aurifil Mako 50wt Thread is definitely worth considering.
Aurifil 50WT Thread
If you’re looking for a versatile thread that can be used for a variety of quilting techniques, the Aurifil 50WT Thread is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Achieve accurate seam allowances with a virtually lint-free thread.
- Ideal for both hand and machine piecing and appliqué.
- Spools are sealed in factory shrink wrap to ensure freshness.
Cons
- Some users may find the price to be slightly higher than other thread options.
- The natural white color may not be suitable for all quilting projects.
- Some users may prefer a thicker thread for certain quilting techniques.
This 100% Egyptian cotton thread is perfect for both machine and hand piecing and appliqué. It is thin and virtually lint-free, making it easy to achieve accurate seam allowances. The spools are sealed in factory shrink wrap to ensure freshness, and the 50WT thread is ideal for a variety of quilting techniques, including machine quilting, embroidery, and more.
One of the standout features of the Aurifil 50WT thread is its versatility. It can be used for a variety of quilting techniques, including machine quilting, embroidery, and more. It is also ideal for both hand and machine piecing and appliqué, making it a great choice for quilters of all skill levels.
While the price of the Aurifil 50WT thread may be slightly higher than other thread options, many users find that the quality of the thread is well worth the cost. Additionally, the natural white color may not be suitable for all quilting projects, but it is perfect for many types of piecing and appliqué.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality, versatile thread for your quilting projects, the Aurifil 50WT thread is an excellent choice.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best thread for quilting, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Material
The material of the thread can affect the overall look and feel of your quilt. Cotton thread is a popular choice for quilting because it is strong, easy to work with, and comes in a variety of colors. Polyester thread is also a good option because it is durable and can withstand high-speed sewing machines. However, if you are working with delicate fabrics, silk thread may be the best choice as it is strong and has a beautiful sheen.
Weight
Thread weight refers to the thickness of the thread. The weight you choose will depend on the type of quilting you are doing. For piecing, a thinner thread such as 50 or 60 weight is ideal as it will not add bulk to your seams. For quilting, a thicker thread such as 40 weight or higher will give your quilt a more prominent look.
Color
Choosing the right color thread is important as it can either blend in or stand out on your quilt. If you want your quilting to be subtle, choose a thread that matches the color of your fabric. If you want your quilting to be more visible, choose a contrasting color.
Quality
Investing in high-quality thread can make a big difference in the overall quality of your quilt. Look for thread that is smooth, strong, and has minimal lint. Cheaper threads may break easily or leave behind excess lint, which can clog up your sewing machine.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best thread for your quilting project and achieve professional-looking results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal thread material for hand quilting projects?
For hand quilting, it is recommended to use a thread made of natural fibers like cotton or silk. These materials provide a smooth and durable finish to your quilt, and they are easier to handle than synthetic threads.
Which thread should I use for optimal results in machine quilting?
For machine quilting, it is recommended to use a high-quality thread made of cotton or polyester. These materials provide strength and durability to your quilt, and they are designed to withstand the high-speeds of machine quilting.
What weight of thread is recommended for machine quilting?
The weight of thread you choose for machine quilting depends on the type of quilting you are doing. A 40 or 50 weight thread is ideal for general machine quilting, while a 30 weight thread is better for quilting thicker fabrics or for creating a more visible quilting pattern.
Can you use 50 wt thread for all quilting purposes?
While a 50 weight thread is suitable for most quilting projects, it may not be the best choice for thicker fabrics or for creating a more visible quilting pattern. In these cases, a heavier weight thread may be more appropriate.
What are the advantages of using polyester over cotton thread in quilting?
Polyester thread is often preferred over cotton thread for its strength, durability, and resistance to shrinkage. It is also less prone to breakage and fraying during machine quilting, making it a popular choice for those who want a long-lasting and high-quality finish to their quilts.
Is clear thread suitable for quilting and does it affect the final look?
Clear thread can be used for quilting, but it may affect the final look of your quilt. While it is invisible on light fabrics, it can be more visible on darker fabrics, and it may not provide the same level of strength and durability as other types of thread. It is best to use clear thread for specific purposes, such as attaching embellishments or for quilting in areas where you don’t want the thread to be visible.
