With so many different types of threads available, there's a lot of terminology that you might see when shopping around. Just like it can be overwhelming picking the color thread you'd like, it can be overwhelming just trying to understand the descriptions. We've gathered a list of commonly used thread terminology to make it easier!
HELPFUL HINT: On each of our thread pages, we have different tabs with information on that specific thread (highlighted in yellow above). For most of the threads, you will find a description, recommended needles, and details such as yards per spool, thread content, and origin.
Appliqué Thread - fine thread used to sew appliqué pieces onto a larger background. For wool appliqué, we use Ellana Wool Thread. For cotton appliqué, we use Efina Cotton Thread.
Cottonized Polyester - a 100% polyester thread has been treated to behave more like a cotton thread by removing the stretch and giving it a more matte finish. The InvisaFil appliqué thread is a cottonized polyester.
Double-Gassed - double gassing is the process of burning off the excess lint from thread, resulting in a smooth surface with less drag and excellent stitch quality. Sue Spargo Eleganza Perle Cotton is Double-Gassed to eliminate buildup of lint and snub, enhancing the sewability.
Embroidery Thread - embroidery thread is created specifically for embroidery stitching and other needlework. This thread would not typically be used for sewing or appliqué.
Embroidery Floss - this is a type of embroidery thread, but its key characteristic is that it can be stranded. This means that a floss made up of 6 strands of thread can be separated into individual strands, allowing you to create a thinner thread as desired. Splendor is a strandable embroidery floss made up of 3 strands.
Gimp - a cord-like thread made by wrapping a very fine thread tightly around a core thread. Gimp can be made with silk, cotton, polyester, rayon, etc. This thread is especially dimensional and is great for couching. We have Gimp made with rayon and cotton as well as Silk Gimp.
Mercerized - mercerization is a finishing process for cellulose fibers (think plant-made fibers rather than wool, silk, etc.) that significantly improves dye uptake and strength. This means more rich, vibrant colors can be achieved. Our Eleganza Perle Cotton is mercerized.
Perle Cotton (or Pearl Cotton) - a 2-ply, non-divisible twisted thread excellent for embroidery. This thread cannot be stranded like embroidery floss. Our Eleganza Perle Cotton and House of Embroidery Perle Cotton are great examples.
Ply - the number of individual yarns that are twisted together to create one single thread.
Sashiko Thread - a 100% matte cotton with a tight twist. Sashiko thread is non-divisible. This type of thread is used in traditional Japanese Sashiko stitching, but it can also be used for embroidery and hand quilting.
Silk Pearl - similar to Perle Cotton, but made with silk. A 2-ply, non-divisble twisted silk thread excellent for embroidery. Grandeur, Shinju, and Silken Pearl are all Silk Pearl threads.
Variegate - meaning "to make more diverse, especially in color or pattern". Variegated threads have been dyed to create a multi-colored pattern throughout. Sue Spargo's Eleganza Perle Cotton is made with extra short variegations, allowing for rapid color change even in smaller stitches.
Weight (Size) - the weight of a thread is the thickness or size. Generally, the smaller the number, the thicker the thread. For example, an 8wt thread is much thicker than a 60wt thread.
