Choosing the correct PTFE sewing thread can reduce friction & frustration while sewing, increase the lifespan & strength of your project, place less strain on your sewing machine, plus countless other project benefits.
Read on for a rundown of various thread types and their recommended uses in these markets to determine the best quality thread for your project.
Threads crafted from PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) and ePTFE (expanded PTFE) emerge as true contenders with their robust thermoplastic polymers. These threads showcase unparalleled flexibility, fortified resistance against chemicals, UV rays, and friction. What's more, their standout trait lies in their suitability for heavy-duty fabrics, making them the prime choice for applications like HDPE shade fabrics. The hallmark of these threads is their remarkable durability that ensures longevity even in the most challenging environments.
A heavyweight champion in the thread world, polyester thread—affectionately known as Dacron®—boasts an array of remarkable qualities. Its exceptional resistance to UV rays and water sets it apart as the go-to thread for outdoor projects. This thread's tenacity combined with its minimal stretch make it an indispensable choice across various industrial applications.
A word of caution: While its merits are undeniable, keep in mind that dyed polyester threads may transfer pigment to vinyl surfaces. Vigilance in such scenarios is advised.
A force to be reckoned with, nylon thread commands attention due to its inherent flexibility and an impeccable strength-to-size ratio. Its versatility shines when applied to indoor upholstery projects, where elements pose no threat. However, the spotlight truly shines on its suitability for fabrics shielded from the elements. For ventures into the great outdoors, it's prudent to explore thread types designed to embrace enhanced weather resistance.
Embracing nature's strength, cotton thread makes its mark by forming an unwavering grip on fabric. When drenched, its unique trait of swelling prevents seam leakage, making it a dependable choice across a spectrum of sewing projects. As a general-purpose thread, its versatility knows no bounds.
However, for projects that brave the elements, a thoughtful consideration of synthetic thread alternatives—possessing superior weather resistance—becomes an essential step towards longevity and durability.
The construction of sewing threads plays a pivotal role in their performance and adaptability to various sewing applications. Threads are meticulously crafted using different techniques, each imbuing them with distinct characteristics.
Find a thread that's solution-dyed, treated for UV resistance, bonded, or anti-wicking. These will help defend against sun and moisture to keep the color in the thread, even in marine conditions.
Use a thread that's lubricated or specially engineered for high heat and high-speed machine sewing.
Fraying typically occurs when there are burs on the sewing machine needle. Breaking typically occurs either under fraying or because the tension is wrong. Fraying and breaking can also occur from the needle getting too hot in high-speed sewing machines – but this is highly unlikely with a lubricated thread.
Choose an anti-wicking, swelling (swellable), or monocord threads that fill the seams when wet to prevent leakage. Aqua-Seal is one of the leading swellable threads on the market.
Select a thread that's heat set to minimize shrinking and expanding.
Lubricated, coated, or bonded threads defend against these external factors.
Monofilament thread provides one uniform strand, which means no untwisting. Bonding and lubrication also create a smoother surface to prevent knotting and abrasion.
With so many thread color options available, you can usually color-match your fabric. You can also try a thinner thread for a finer seam or a clear thread for an invisible seam.
Try a thread with twisted yarn to improve hook pickup.
Aruvo thread features a unique snap base to prevent thread from falling off the spool when taken off the sewing machine.
Find a single-ply thread with light bonding that provides both strength and flexibility – or thread with a soft finish.
Choose a bonded polyester or PTFE thread for marine environments for their durability, thread tension, and weather defense. One specifically marked as bleed resistant is a plus.
Industrial threads come in a range of sizes. Generally speaking, the larger the size, the thicker and heavier duty the thread is (which means more noticeable seams).
Thread weight is the thickness of your thread. Thread weight can vary from fine thread to medium weight to heavy-duty weight. Heavier threads are coarser and work best for thicker fabrics.
There's a lot of variation in thread, depending on what you use it for. The notes above are good general rules to follow when selecting heavy-duty or industrial threads.
Make a decision? Choose from over 350 choices in thread and bobbins at Trivantage to tie up your next project.
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The purpose of this guide is to give fabricators some general guidelines and product information. Read all our Product Guides.
This guide should not be considered as the sole source of information on thread. This guide is strictly informational.
Please reach out to your local customer care team for more guidance.
