The Best Types of Thread for Piecing Quilts – Compare Top Thread Brands for Hand or Machine Quilting Projects

The Best Thread for Piecing Your Next Quilt: A Comprehensive Guide

Have you started a new quilt project but are unsure which thread to use for piecing your quilt blocks together? Choosing the right thread is an important decision that can make or break your quilting experience. In this article, I’ll break down the key factors to consider when selecting thread and provide my top recommendations based on years of piecing experience. But first, let’s cover the basic intentions a quilter likely has when searching for the “best thread”:

User Intentions

1. Find threads that are durable and won’t break during piecing.
2. Choose threads that are colorfast to prevent dye from transferring onto fabric.
3. Select threads with a smooth texture for easy hand or machine stitching.
4. Discover affordable thread options that are still high quality.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have the knowledge to pick a thread that fulfills all of these important needs. Now, let’s get started!

Cotton vs. Polyester Thread

The first factor to consider is fiber content – cotton or polyester? From my experience, cotton threads have a soft, natural feel but are prone to breaking. I prefer polyester threads because they are incredibly durable and hold up well to frequent piecing. Polyester is also colorfast and won’t leave unintentional dye marks on your fabrics. However, cotton threads do have their place if you prefer the traditional quilt shop aesthetic.

Thread Brands to Try

When it comes to notable thread brands, Gütermann and Aurifil are usually top of the recommendations list. I have faced situations where these premium thread companies deliver incredible quality quilters love. Here are some threads from each to put on your test list:

Brother and Coats & Clark also make excellent affordable options like Brother Dual Duty Plus or Coats & Clark Quilting Thread. Here’s a real-life case from my practice – these budget-friendly threads have performed just as well as pricier picks in most of my quilts. Always test a new thread on scrap fabric first.

Thread Tension and Stitch Type

No matter the brand, thread tension issues can ruin your piecing vibes. Basically, thread tension needs to be balanced between your top and bobbin threads. Too tight or too loose causes unattractive stitches. As for stitch type, I recommend a shorter stitch length like 1.5-2mm for strongest piecing seams. The tiny stitches create an almost invisible seam once pressed. Occasionally, try a longer stitch of 3mm for an eye-catching effect on certain blocks. Play around until you find your jam!

Pro Tips for Smooth Piecing

Let me wrap up with a few more tips learned from hours of quilting:

With these pointers in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting quilt masterpieces! But is it worth all the effort? Only you can decide if quilting brings you joy like it has for so many others over the years, kind of like a secret handshake between quilters everywhere.

Now that we’ve unpacked the intentions, criteria, and recommendations for choosing the best thread, I hope this guide has equipped you to sew your next quilt with confidence. Feel free to reach out if you have any other quilting questions! Until then, happy piecing!

Best Threads for Piecing Quilts

FAQ

1. What is the best thread for piecing quilts?

   Cotton is maybe the most common thread people use for piecing quilts. It comes in a variety of thicknesses but generally a light colored all-purpose cotton thread works great. Cotton thread is sort of stretchy which helps your pieces fit together neatly. Metallic threads can also be fun for special details but they aren’t as flexible. On the other hand, polyester thread is super strong but not as forgiving if you make a mistake. So in summary, for beginners a basic cotton thread in a light color is a solid choice.

2. Should I use the same color thread on the top and bottom?

   Most quilters strongly recommend using a thread color that matches or blends with the fabric on the top rather than the bottom. The tops of your stitches will show more after piecing and you want them to basically disappear into the fabric. Experts say a coordinated thread means tidy, invisible seams. You could quote Eleanor Burns, an expert quilter, who says “choose thread the same color or a couple shades darker than the fabric on the top of the block.” However, on really dark prints it won’t matter as much.

3. How do I know what thread thickness to use?

   As a general rule, use a fine weight thread, around 100 weight or higher, for piecing quilts. A finer thread helps the stitches sit flatter and gets into tiny points and intersection better than a thick one. Nevertheless, you’ll want to test your thread thickness on a scrap first to make sure it doesn’t show through to the front. Is that fair? If you see it sitting on top of the fabric rather than sinking in, go up a thickness until it disappears.

   

4. Should I use the same brand of thread for the whole quilt?

   It’s not absolutely necessary but consistency can be nice, especially for quilters just starting out. Switching thread brands or types could possibly cause subtle color variations between blocks. At the same time, when piecing lots of patches together any mismatch is often not super noticeable, unless the new thread is dramatically darker or lighter. Most pros say use what you have available and don’t stress over mixing brands too much. Your stitches will be hidden once it’s all quilted and bound anyway!

5. What’s a good way to keep my thread from tangling as I piece?

   Thread tangles are maybe the bane of anyone who sews! Leaving a 6-8 inch tail of thread behind the machine and gently pulling it as you sew really helps prevent nasty knots. You can also use an add-on like a spool sock, which covers your thread spool to create less friction. Sort of wrap the thread around an index card if you don’t have a spool sock. And don’t let your thread just trail wildly behind you as you work – gently guide it with your non-sewing hand. Following these tips should keep your thread happily untangled.

6. How do I know when it’s time to change my sewing machine’s needle?

   Dull needles can lead to frustrating problems like skipped stitches or thread nests. Experts suggest swapping your needle after 8 hours of total sewing time or whenever you see it starting to get nasty looking. The pointy tip should be SUPER sharp. Try running your finger along the needle – if it snags your skin even a little, ditch it! Changing to a fresh needle frequently makes a big difference in stitch quality. Most machines use size 11 or 14 needles for piecing cotton.

Any final tips for neat piecing seams?

Here are some last hints for pro-level perfect piecing: Press each seam flat as soon as it’s sewn to keep fabric from puckering. Go slowly and avoid over-sewing small areas like at four-patch intersections where bulk easily builds up. Trim threads close to the stitching line when complete to erase any loose strings. And as the finishing touched – give your whole quilt a final press with steam before moving on to the next step. Taking some time with seam finishing will make your quilt truly shine!