The embroidery threads

Embroidery threads: loops, stitches, knots and twists

The origins of the first embroidery threads are unknown, but it is not unreasonable to assume that the first examples of embroidery are the result of the activity of the man who discovered that the same stitches that were used to store skins and fabrics for clothing could be used. to create decorative motifs. . . We've come a long way since the days of thick bone needles and chunky threads and the glorious variety of embroidery threads available now.

While it's easy to be seduced by bright colors and shiny surfaces, it's always a plus to understand the materials you're using, the characteristics that make each type of thread unique, and some more suited to specific tasks than others. This will help you avoid the wrong decisions and alleviate the frustration of trying to sew with the wrong thread. So, what are the characteristics that make embroidery threads different from each other?

Does it rotate 'S' or rotate 'Z'?

Most embroidery threads are created by spinning short fibers together and then combining several thin threads, or plies, to create a stronger, more durable thread. The exceptions to this are threads such as silk filaments and most metallic threads. As a general rule, the longer the fibers, the stronger the yarn; That's why, for so long, basic cottons and wools have trumped shorts. The layers are twisted clockwise or counterclockwise, resulting in a yarn with an "S" or "Z" twist.

So did I say the difference?

Take a single strand of yarn and carefully watch the path of the layers and make sure they stay together. If the line of the curve goes from the upper left corner to the lower right corner, it is an "S" curve, like the center of an "S". If it goes from top right to bottom left, it's a "Z" curve, like the center of a "Z". Regardless of how you hold the thread, the twist will be the same. Split strands will have each strand created by twisting in one direction, then hold the bundle of strands together by twisting in the opposite direction. For example, each woven cotton thread is created in an "S" turn, but the group of six threads is joined in a "Z" turn.

Why are twists important?

Most embroidery threads (cotton, silk, linen, and wool) are "twisted," but rayon and some silk threads tend to be "twisted." So why does it matter and how do you make a difference when you sew? For many points and techniques, the direction of the line twist has little impact, but there are some places where it becomes very noticeable. This difference becomes much more apparent when working with a single strand of yarn. For many points and techniques, the direction of the line twist has little impact, but there are some places where it becomes very noticeable. This difference becomes much more apparent when working with a single strand of yarn.

Contour point and stem

Take a single strand twisted into an "S" shape (upholstery wool or pearl cotton are ideal) and work in a row of rod stitches from left to right. Take another thread and work a contour stitch line from left to right. Now compare the two needles - the outline stitch is very soft and it is difficult to identify each stitch. But the stem stitch is quite textured and each stitch is clearly obvious. This is because the thread unwinds as you work the outline stitch, but gets very twisted when you work the bar stitch. Now if I take a "Z" thread and do the exact same thing, the stem tip of the thread would be smooth and the outline would be textured.

Embroidery threads - Golden knots

Take a single thread in an 'S' shape and tie a metal knot, winding the thread clockwise around the needle. Tie a second knot, this time winding the yarn counterclockwise. The first knot will be very soft as the layers of thread come undone as they wrap around the needle. And they are lying next to each other. The second knot will be textured and each thread will wrap quite a bit as the layers are twisted more tightly. If you repeat this exercise with a twist of the thread, the result will be the opposite: the knot wound clockwise around the needle - structured, the knot wound counterclockwise - will be smooth.

High torque or low torque?

The amount of twist in embroidery threads affects not only the appearance of a thread, but also its strength and performance. So how do you know if a yarn is high or low twist? Visually, a high twist thread will have more turns per inch than a low twist thread. Since this is often hard to see, you can usually tell by pinching the thread between your thumb and forefinger. A high-twist thread does not flatten easily and maintains its roundness even under pressure.

Types of threads for embroidery, for Ladybug Maria Two:

low twist wires

A low twist thread flattens easily and is difficult to distinguish between fingers. High twist yarns are generally stronger and less prone to fraying than low twist yarns when woven. When sewing, it's important to make sure the thread twist remains consistent or you'll find the surface of your work will change.

When a thread is unwound, it reflects more light and appears shinier. If you twist it too much, it will lose its shine and look dull. This is especially noticeable when working with a full stitch. Leave the needle loose from time to time to allow the thread to resume its natural twist, or add twist with your fingers.

high twist wires

High-twist embroidery threads, such as cotton, pearl, and buttonhole, are not divisible. They are robust and round threads that maintain their shape and remain on the surface of the fabric. This makes them more suitable when good point definition is important. But it's less appropriate for techniques like wire painting, where connecting the dots is crucial. High twist threads are easier to use when working with weaving or shedding techniques such as needlepoint picot. Because the thread is held together, the layers are less likely to split.