Can You Use Wooly Nylon in a Regular Sewing Machine?
Using the right sewing supplies and materials can make a big difference when it comes to creating a successful project. While most people have heard of cotton, linen, and even felt, fewer are familiar with Wooly Nylon – a unique type of thread that can be used in certain situations. But can you use Wooly Nylon in a regular sewing machine? The answer isn’t A or B, but surprisingly more nuanced.
Wooly Nylon is a type of thread made from a blend of polyester and nylon. It is designed specifically for use in overlock and cover stitch machines, as it is able to withstand higher tensions and is resistant to stretching. This makes it perfect for projects requiring stretchy seams, such as garments made from spandex or jersey fabrics. The thread is also heat-resistant, meaning it can also be used for applications involving heat-sealing or fabric bonding.
However, its resistance to stretching also makes it unsuitable for regular sewing machines. Instead, most experts recommend sticking to polyester thread when using a regular machine, as it is more elastic and better able to stand up to the tension. Nylon thread should also be avoided, as it is too strong and has the potential to damage or break the parts of your machine.
While Wooly Nylon should not be used in a regular machine, it is important to note that some specialty machines are equipped with special attachments or techniques that may make it possible to use the thread. For example, heavier duty machines may have the ability to increase or decrease their tension, which could potentially make Wooly Nylon possible. However, it is best to check with your machine’s manufacturer before attempting this, as the wrong settings could do more harm than good.
It is also worth noting that using a walking foot on your machine may help to minimize stress on the fabric and thread. This can help to prevent the fabric from puckering or the thread from breaking, which can be especially important when using Wooly Nylon. A walking foot helps to keep the fabric flat and evenly feed it through the machine, which can be especially useful when stitching difficult fabrics or thick layers.
The last thing to consider is the needle you are using. It is important to select one that is properly sized and properly suited to the fabric. A needle that is too large can damage the fabric, while a needle that is too small can cause the thread to break or the seams to become weak. Again, it is best to consult your machine’s manual – or a specialist – to be sure of the best needle to use, as this may vary based on the manufacturer.
Do You Need a Specialty Machine?
Whether you need a specialty machine to use Wooly Nylon will depend on the type of project you’re attempting. If you’re working with fabrics that require more elasticity and more heavy-duty stitching, such as spandex and jersey materials, then a specialty machine may be necessary. On the other hand, if you’re just doing basic repairs or working with lightweight fabrics, then a regular machine will generally be enough.
It’s also important to consider how frequently you intend to use the thread. If you plan to use it for just a few projects and then use it sparingly, then a regular machine may be enough. However, if you intend to do more frequent or complex projects with Wooly Nylon, investing in a specialty machine is worthwhile.
There are a variety of specialty machines specifically designed for use with Wooly Nylon, such as the Janome Memory Craft 9900, the Singer ProFinish Cover Stitch, and the Juki MO654DE Overlock machine. With these machines, you’ll be able to achieve professional-grade elasticity and durability in your projects. However, these machines usually come with a higher price tag, so it’s important to consider whether or not the cost is worth the investment.
Is Wooly Nylon Better Than Polyester Thread?
When it comes to certain projects, Wooly Nylon can be a great choice. Its heat resistance and high-strength make it particularly useful for projects involving bonding or heat-sealing. It is also great for fabrics that need to stretch, such as spandex and jersey fabric. While polyester thread can also be used, it tends to be less durable and can be more prone to breakage under heavy tension or with complex patterns.
There are also a variety of colors and finishes available for Wooly Nylon, making it more versatile than traditional thread. For example, you can use metallic threads in combination with Wooly Nylon to create a more high-end look. These metallic threads are designed to add a hint of sheen to your project and make it look more complex and interesting.
However, it is important to note that Wooly Nylon is more expensive than polyester. While this should not be a major concern for a one-off project, it can make a difference if you are planning to use the thread on a regular basis. Additionally, Wooly Nylon is thicker than regular thread and can be more difficult to manipulate. This can be especially true if you’re not familiar with specialty machines, as it can be challenging to get the thread under tension.
What Projects Is Wooly Nylon Best For?
Wooly Nylon is best used for projects that require increased elasticity and durability. This includes projects such as sportswear, lingerie, activewear, and swimsuits, as these items often require more flexibility and strength. Wooly Nylon is also useful for creating pressure points, such as buttonholes and hems, as its higher tension can help to hold these points in place.
Additionally, Wooly Nylon can be used for projects that involve elasticity and stitching in combination, such as leggings, tights, and other fabric items that require a “stretchable” construction. While a regular machine can be used for many of these types of projects, using Wooly Nylon is usually the best choice for achieving a final product that meets high standards.
Finally, it should be noted that Wooly Nylon is not suitable for every type of project. For example, it is not suited for thin fabrics, as the tension and thickness of the thread may pull the fabric and cause it to tear or puncture. Additionally, Wooly Nylon should not be used with leather or similar materials, as its heat resistance may cause the leather to scorch or burn.
Conclusion
As you can see, Wooly Nylon can have its uses in certain situations. While it should not be used in a regular sewing machine, it may be necessary for certain projects. However, it is important to consider whether or not the cost and effort required are worth the final result. Additionally, it is important to select the correct needle size and machine settings for any project involving Wooly Nylon, so be sure to consult your manual and/or a specialist before attempting a project with this thread.
