How the Thread Quality Impacts How an Item Holds Up

Sewing a project together requires the use of thread that’s made for a specific purpose. The quality of the thread directly impacts the strength of the finished seam and enables the final piece to easily hold together.

 

Quality thread is made to put together pieces of fabric in such a way that it won’t bind, shred, or untwist as it goes through the needle. Here’s a look at what goes into making quality thread, and why it’s worth buying.

 

Fibers Used for Making the Thread

 

The fibers that go into the making of the thread provide its core strength and longevity. Thread made from a combination of polyester and cotton is the most common type due to its ability to withstand abrasion, closely followed by 100% polyester.

 

Cotton/polyester thread has been in use for decades, and has been shown to withstand the test of time. The blend became available for widespread use in the mid-1950s. The items made from this time period onwards still have tight seams due to the thread’s ability to resist decay.

 

Pure polyester thread hasn’t been around as long, but it’s also proven to be resistant to wear and tear. Polyester’s synthetic formulation results in a thread that doesn’t rot while delivering the strength needed to resist wear.

 

Tightness of the Twist

 

The thread is made up of multiple strands of fiber known as yarns. These strands of yarn are wound together in a process known as twisting. However, the yarn isn’t considered finished as multiple yarns are twisted together into stands known as a ply. The finished thread contains anywhere from 2, 3, or 4-ply threads.

 

Twists come in two types: S and Z. A Z twist turns to the left, while the S twist turns to the right. Consumer sewing machines use the Z twist which means a majority of the thread sold utilizes the twist.

 

Twisting together multiple ply threads results in a thread that’s strong and durable. The tighter the twist, the stronger the resulting thread. It also affects how easily the thread moves through the fabric as it passes through the needle.

 

Finish of the Thread

 

After the thread has been twisted, it undergoes a final process known as finishing. The type of finish used depends on the intended use of the thread. For example, a thread that’s intended for use in a marine environment undergoes finishing for water repellency and anti-fungal treatment to ensure longevity and durability. In contrast, garment thread is finished through a flame to burn off debris and create a smooth, silky texture that runs easily through the eye of a needle.

 

In Conclusion

 

It’s worth noting that there are manufacturers making a low-quality thread that won’t hold up over time. Spending a little extra on the right type of thread for the project at hand results in a finished item that lasts decades.

 

Assess the project prior to buying thread in order to get the right type for durability and longevity. Using the right thread makes all the difference when it comes to ease of sewing, solid seams, and getting the right hang from the finished piece.