All threads listed
can be paired with the same thread in the bobbin.
You can have
different threads in the top and bobbin. Consider the fiber content, weight and
strength of the two threads then run a test sandwich of the fabric and batting
that is in your quilt to see if the two threads can be run together with a
balanced tension and without breaking.
It is always
easier to set the tension on your machine if you pair natural fiber to natural
fiber and man made to man made.
All fine threads
should be wound on the bobbin at slow speed
When winding monofilament onto your bobbin be sure to
wind at a slow speed and only fill the bobbin half full.
This is because the thread has quite a bit of
elasticity and over filling the bobbin can cause it to expand giving your
machine very poor tension.
With the exception
of monofilament thread the smaller the size # the thicker the thread, (i.e. 50 weight
is finer than 40 weight).
Monofilament goes
by thickness (denier) not weight.
Needle sizes are
the opposite of thread sizes. The larger the size the larger the needle, (i.e.
size 10 is smaller than size 12)
Needles have two
size numbers. The first is European and the second is North American. (For example
70/10).
*Please note;
On some of the
more highly computerized machines you may need to “increase” the top tension in
places where we normally decrease or vice versa.
Most brand name threads have web sites that are full
of tips on using their individual products.
Monofilament, (Polyester).
.004” (.1mm) in diameter (90 denier)
Bobbin Thread; 40
Weight, 60 Weight or100 Weight Polyester or Monofilament.
Needle; Microtex Sharp
60/8, 70/10 or Jeans Denim 70/10.
Monofilament, (Nylon).
.004” (.1mm) in diameter (90 denier)
Bobbin Thread, 60
Weight Cotton or Monofilament.
Needle; Microtex Sharp
60/8, 70/10 or Jeans Denim 70/10.
Silk 100 Weight.
Bobbin Thread; 60
Weight Cotton or Silk.
Needle; Microtex Sharp
60/8
Cotton “Embroidery”
60 Weight.
Bobbin Thread; 60
Weight Cotton .
Needle; Microtex Sharp
60/8 or 70/10 or Quilters 75/11.
Cotton 50 Weight.
The standard
thread for piecing, also beautiful for quilting. Now available in variegated.
Bobbin Thread;50 Weight
Cotton.
Needle; Quilting
75/11 or 90/14.
Cotton 40 Weight;
Bobbin Thread; 50
Weight Cotton.
Needle; Jeans
Denim 90/14 or Quilting 90/14.
30 Weight Cotton
Bobbin Thread; 50
Weight Cotton.
Needle; Topstitch
90/14 or 100/16
Lengthen stitch
slightly.
12 Weight Cotton
Bobbin Thread; 50
Weight Cotton or 30 Weight Cotton
Needle; Topstitch
90/14 or 100/16.
Lengthen stitch
slightly. Drop top tension.
Rayon 40 Weight.
Bobbin Thread; 60
Weight Cotton or Rayon.
Needle; Microtex Sharp
60/8, 70/10, Embroidery 75/11 or Quilters 75/11.
Metallic.
Bobbin Thread; Monofilament
or 100 Weight Polyester.
Needle; Metallica
80/12 or Quilters 75/11
Lengthen stitch
slightly. May need to slightly drop top tension.
Ribbon Metallic.
Bobbin thread; Monofilament or 100 Weight Polyester
Needle; Metallica
80/12, Topstitch 80/12 or Microtex Sharp 70/10.
Lengthen stitch slightly and drop top tension. (Usually
to about 3)
40 Weight Trilobal
Polyester.
Bobbin Thread; 100
Weight Polyester or Trilobal.
Needle; Topstitch
90/14 or Quilters 90/14
Acrylic Embroidery
40 weight
Bobbin Thread; Acrylic
Needle; Microtex Sharp
60/8, 70/10 or Embroidery 80/12.
Jeans Stitch.
Bobbin; 50 weight
cotton.
Needle; Topstitch
80/12 or 90/14
Lengthen stitch
length. Drop top tension.
Please keep in mind these are possible thread / needle
combinations.
Feel free to experiment especially if your machine is
not “happy” with these suggestions.
Remember…There is no substitute for practice!
Don’t be afraid to try new threads, new stitch patterns,
new thread/needle combinations.
In other words give yourself permission to take time to “play”!
For information on this and other classes contact me
at;
