Whether you sew on thick fabrics or delicate ones, you can find the perfect polyester sewing thread for any project. The different types of thread are categorized by appearance and purpose. To make the right choice, you should know the basic facts about polyester sewing thread.
First, you should choose your sewing thread based on the fabric you're sewing. Most threads are made of 100% polyester. This type of thread is sturdy, flexible, and durable. However, it is not the right choice for every type of fabric. If you're making an outdoor item, or are using a lightweight fabric, it may not be the best choice. Alternatively, you can opt for silk thread, which is better suited to decorative purposes.
Another option is a synthetic thread. While rayon and cotton are natural fibres, polyester is a synthetic fiber. It has a silicone or wax finish, which makes it easy to glide through fabric and provides excellent durability. In some cases, you can find invisible polyester thread to complete your project. You can also find thread made from polyester in a wide range of colors.
In terms of elasticity, polyester threads are also elastic. Depending on their tensile strength, cotton threads can stretch up to 20%, while polyester threads can only stretch up to 10%. Both of these factors can affect the appearance of seams.
Enhanced multi-filament polyester is best used for top-stitching details and repairing jeans. This type of thread is stronger than cotton and should be used with a size 16 needle or a special topstitching needle with a larger eye. However, this type of thread is not recommended for backstitching and sewing two garments together. Water-repellent polyester sewing threads are only marginally more resistant to moisture and stress.
Another type of polyester thread is called corespun. It consists of a polyester core wrapped in spun polyester. This type is stronger than normal polyester and is also known as poly-core spun-poly thread. It has excellent strength and holds up well in both home and professional sewing machines. They're also excellent for heavier materials, including canvas and synthetic fabrics. But, you should know that the two kinds aren't necessarily interchangeable.