When it comes to sewing, selecting the right materials can be difficult. A crucial factor to consider is whether you can use embroidery thread in your sewing machine. Many wagerers may attempt to do so with limited success – though using embroidery thread in a sewing machine is technically a possibility, it can give poor results since the threads are too thin, and the tension adjustments must be made accordingly.
Embroidery thread is made to be different from most threads used in sewing machines. Embroidery thread is manufactured to be much finer, and with much less twist, which makes it much better suited for hand embroidery and specialty stitchwork than for regular, high speed sewing. It’s best used for free motion machine embroidery, where it’s looped through the fabric with no tension on it, or for decorative topstitching and quilt stitching.
Still, there may be times when you need to use embroidery thread in a regular sewing machine. Heirloom sewing, or intricate stitch patterns such as on wedding dresses, require fine thread and light pressure to achieve the desired effect. In these cases, embroidery thread can be used instead of sewing thread, provided that you use a smaller needle and adjust the tension accordingly. It’s important to switch to a polyester or cotton-covered polyester embroidery thread, since the polyester holds up better under the feed dogs’ pressure than cotton or rayon.
The way to use that embroidery thread in a sewing machine is to set the machine’s tension very low. If the tension is too high, the thread may break and it won’t stitch properly. Generally, the tension should be around 1 or 2. You can test it by stitching on a piece of scrap fabric and then feeling the underside of the fabric for the stitches. Check that the embroidery thread is forming a nice, even stitch. If it feels too tight or too loose, adjust the tension accordingly. Additionally, when you’re adjusting the tension of the needle thread, also adjust the tension of the bobbin thread. This will help ensure an even tension in both threads.
It’s also important to change the needle when working with embroidery thread in a sewing machine. Needles for regular sewing thread have an eye that’s too large for embroidery thread, so you need to switch to a needle that’s made specifically for more delicate threads such as embroidery thread. If you’re using a heavier embroidery thread, you may need to use a needle that’s made especially for thicker thread, such as a denim needle.
When sewing with embroidery thread, it’s also important to make sure you’re using the right kind of needle plate. If the needle plate has too large of holes, the thread will loop and tangle in the machine and the stitches won’t form properly. In this case, it’s best to switch to a needle plate that’s made for use with finer threads.
Finally, some embroidery threads come with a wax on them, which can coat the needle and make it difficult for it to pass through the fabric. To prevent this from happening, make sure to check your embroidery thread for any wax that might be present. If necessary, use a thread conditioner to remove any excess wax from the thread.
Thread count
One thing to keep in mind when using embroidery thread in a sewing machine is that not all threads are equal. Sewing thread is generally made with a higher thread count than embroidery thread, meaning it’s more tightly woven. An embroidery thread of between 10 and 25 wt (weight) may be too thin for a regular sewing machine. Instead, look for a heavier embroidery thread of between 40 and 60 wt. This type of thread will be stronger and more durable than the thinner thread, and will be able to hold up better to the feeding pressure of the sewing machine.
Cotton vs Polyester
When selecting embroidery thread for sewing, it’s important to consider whether you should use cotton or polyester thread. Cotton thread is usually OK for free motion machine embroidery, where you’re stitching with no tension on the thread, or for decorative stitching. However, for regular high-speed sewing, polyester thread is usually preferable. Polyester holds up better to pressure from the feed dogs and has less friction with the needle, which means it won’t break down as easily or cause as much wear and tear on the machine.
Using Prewound Bobbins
When using a sewing machine with embroidery thread, it’s best to use prewound bobbins. These bobbins feature a plastic or metal core that keeps the thread tightly wound and was designed to work with a variety of threads and weights. Using prewound bobbins will help ensure that your embroidery thread is properly tensioned and won’t twist or tangle in the machine. Additionally, prewound bobbins come in a variety of sizes, so you’ll be able to find one that’s the perfect size for your machine.
Additional Considerations
Using embroidery thread in a sewing machine is possible, but there are a few factors you should consider before doing so. Make sure that you use a smaller needle and adjust the tension accordingly. Additionally, switch to a polyester or cotton-covered polyester thread and make sure that the needle plate and bobbin are suitable for use with finer threads. Finally, use prewound bobbins to help ensure that your embroidery thread is properly tensioned and won’t twist or tangle in the machine.
