When selecting notions and sewing accessories, it’s essential to choose thread that looks good with the fabric. There are thousands of color options to consider, but don’t let this choice intimidate you. Here are a few tips to help decide on the best thread for your project.

How to Pair Fabric & Thread 

1. Try a Test Run

Consider purchasing several hues of thread that match with the colors in the fabric you’re working with. Then, use a spare scrap of fabric and stitch a line with one color before adding another line parallel to it in a different hue. Test two or more varieties before deciding which you like best. This process is especially useful when working with patterned fabric, as it allows you to stitch through several areas of the design to see how the thread looks on the different colorful parts.

2. Stick Out or Hide Away 

Some sewers prefer to hide their stitches by using threads that blend in with the fabric or clear thread that has no color. Others like to make their stitching visible with threads in contrasting hues. If you’re using utilitarian stitches like straight lines, colors that blend in may be best. However, you can highlight decorative stitches like seed stitches or French knots by making them with colors that differ from the fabric. Consider bringing out an accent hue featured in small areas of the fabric pattern by using the same colored thread.

3. Reference the Color Wheel

If you can’t decide what looks good together, take a second to study the color wheel. Hues on opposite sides of the circle tend to be the most pleasing to the eye when featured together. For example, green and red or yellow and purple are great pairings.

4. Start With the Thread

Some people recommend selecting their threads before choosing the fabric. Picking these sewing accessories is helpful if you’re working on embroidery or plan to do decorative stitching, as the thread is the focal point of the work.

5.  Check Thread Type and Quality

Ensure the thread will work well with your fabric/project and needle choice.  For normal sewing of seams, you will probably want to use regular all-purpose polyester thread.  Some quilters prefer to use cotton thread when doing their piecing.  For decorative stitching, rayon or polyester thread, made especially for embroidery, works really well, as it has a beautiful sheen to it.  There are also many other specialty threads that are beautiful with decorative stitches or hooped embroidery, but these threads really do not work well for seaming.  Also keep in mind that thread has a shelf life; the older the thread, the more easily it will break.  If your thread breaks constantly after sewing a couple of inches, and you have changed the needle, try a different thread.  Do a test run of thread, needle and fabric to make sure all is well before starting your project.

If you need help maintaining or purchasing sewing accessories, head to The Sewing Center in Flathead County, MT. The one-stop shop has been open for nearly 70 years, providing local seamstresses, designers, and do-it-yourselfers with any sewing accessories they need for their projects. Call the Kalispell-area company at (406) 752-7058 or visit their website to learn about their available inventory.