What is embroidery thread made of?

Most machine embroidery thread is made from polyester or rayon, with polyester being especially popular because it is strong, durable, and holds its color well.

Polyester Embroidery Thread

Polyester is one of the most common choices for machine embroidery. It is strong, resists fading, and handles frequent washing well, making it a good choice for clothing, towels, and other everyday projects.

Rayon Embroidery Thread

Rayon is known for its smooth, shiny appearance and is often used when you want a more decorative finish. It can produce beautiful embroidery but is generally less durable than polyester.

Cotton Embroidery Thread

Cotton thread is also available for machine embroidery and provides a softer, more natural appearance. It is often chosen for quilting and projects where a matte finish is preferred.

Metallic Embroidery Thread

Metallic thread contains very fine metallic material combined with a thread core. It creates a shiny decorative effect but can require slower stitching and extra care to prevent thread breaks.

Embroidery Thread vs. Sewing Thread

Machine embroidery thread is designed to stitch smoothly at high speeds and create a consistent decorative finish. Regular sewing thread is generally heavier and is not the best choice for most machine embroidery designs.

Quick Checklist

  • Polyester is a common choice for machine embroidery.
  • Rayon provides a shiny, decorative finish.
  • Cotton provides a softer, more natural look.
  • Metallic thread creates a decorative shimmer.
  • Use thread specifically made for machine embroidery when possible.

Best Tip

For everyday machine embroidery, polyester is a great all-purpose choice because it is strong, durable, and easy to care for.

Source of information: With over 200,000 customers and a private Facebook group with more than 2,000 members, we have heard just about every embroidery question and troubleshooting problem you can imagine. This question has come to us directly from customers by email, through our Facebook page, and in our private Facebook group.

Have another question? See all the answers in our machine embroidery designs FAQ.