Yes, you absolutely can use embroidery thread in your sewing projects, particularly for decorative purposes.
Uses of Embroidery Thread in Sewing
Embroidery thread is specifically designed to stand out and add visual flair to fabric. As stated in the reference, embroidery thread is perfect for adding texture, color, and visual interest to your sewing projects. Its unique properties make it ideal for visible stitching rather than structural seams.
You can utilize embroidery thread in sewing for various techniques:
- Hand-sewing decorative stitches: Add beautiful, visible stitches by hand.
- Embellishments: Create small details or designs to enhance your project.
- Sashiko stitching: Perform this traditional Japanese form of decorative reinforcement stitching.
- Machine-embroidered monograms: Stitch initials or names onto fabric.
- Applique shapes: Outline or decorate appliqued fabric pieces.
- Border details: Create eye-catching borders along edges.
The reference highlights that details stitched with embroidery thread also pop nicely when machine embroidered.
Why Choose Embroidery Thread for Decorative Sewing?
Compared to standard sewing thread, embroidery thread often has a different composition, twist, and sheen, making it more visible and suitable for designs where the thread itself is a key element. It comes in a vast array of colors, including variegated and metallic options, providing immense creative flexibility.
Embroidery Thread vs. Standard Sewing Thread
It's important to understand the typical distinction between embroidery thread and standard sewing thread:
| Feature | Standard Sewing Thread | Embroidery Thread |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Constructing seams, holding fabric | Decorative stitching, embellishments |
| Strength | Strong, designed for durable seams | Varies; often less strong than sewing thread, not intended for load-bearing seams |
| Appearance | Blends in, less visible | Stands out, shiny, textured, vibrant |
| Typical Texture | Smooth, consistent | Can be thicker, have more sheen, or texture |
While you can use embroidery thread for decorative sewing, it is generally not recommended for creating the structural seams that hold garments or items together due to its lower tensile strength compared to threads specifically designed for construction.
Practical Tips
- Hand Sewing: Use shorter lengths to prevent tangling. Separate strands if using divisible threads like stranded cotton.
- Machine Sewing: Use the correct needle size for the thread thickness and fabric. You might need to adjust tension settings. For machine embroidery, specific machine embroidery threads (often rayon or polyester) are commonly used and differ slightly from hand embroidery threads (like cotton floss), but both fall under the 'embroidery thread' umbrella for decorative use.
Using embroidery thread in your sewing is a fantastic way to add unique artistic touches and personality to your creations.
