Whenever I start a new cross stitch, I always reach out to my collection of DMC threads. Its something all of us cross stitchers do. Once we find the right thread for us, we stick to it. But considering that selecting the right thread is crucial for bringing your projects to life, I wonder if we need to rethink the way we choose the right cross stitch thread.
 

Understanding Different Cross Stitch Thread Types:

Embarking on a cross stitch project is like diving into a sea of colors and textures, and the thread you choose sets the tone for your creative voyage. From the dependable cotton floss to the dazzling metallic thread and the luxurious silk thread, each of the different thread types offers their own unique advantages.

Standard Embroidery Threads:

Cotton (or sometimes a cotton mix) thread, is the beloved workhorse of cross stitch. It comes in the most extensive color ranges, has a smooth texture, and is easy to get hold of. The likelihood is that everyone reading this stitches almost purely in standard embroidery threads. And there is good reason too; with it you can achieve beautiful, vibrant stitches. But its also not particularly special…

Metallic Threads:

Ready to add a touch of magic and shimmer to your creations? Metallic threads are your go-to choice!
Perfect for those finishing touches, or adding a stunning sparkle can really elevate your cross stitch. From twinkling stars to delicate accents, this thread type is sure to make your cross stitch project stand out.
And whilst metallic threads are known for being hard to use, brands like DMC’s Diamant threads make stitching with them easy too. And, unless you’re stitch massive areas in metallic threads, its really not too bad to work with anyway!

Silk Threads:

If you’re working on a special project that demands elegance and longevity, silk and satin threads are the epitome of luxury. The delicate sheen and smoothness of silk threads create a refined finish that will make your masterpiece a true heirloom. While silk thread requires a bit more care when working, the result is well worth the effort.
If you are lucky enough to see cross stitch in museums, these are all stitched with silk threads. After all; its the only way to cross stitch something that will last 100 years.

Specialty Threads:

And finally, we come to specialty threads, such as Coloris, hand-dyed threads, or variations threads. These rather unique threads tend to scare people off as they’re unsure how to use them. But they actually offer the largest areas of variation in your cross stitch.
From an extra touch of creativity and personality to creating captivating color gradients, these threads can spice up any stitching project!
 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cross Stitch Threads:

So when should you think about choosing the right cross stitch thread? Well, always!
Selecting the ideal cross stitch thread goes beyond simply picking a color. It involves understanding the specific requirements of your project and making informed choices that will enhance the overall result.
There are of course, some crucial factors to consider when deciding on the perfect thread; from aligning the thread with the project’s purpose and exploring color matching and substitutions to prioritizing thread quality and recognizing trusted brands, we will equip you with the knowledge needed to make thoughtful and confident decisions!

Project Requirements and Purpose:

First off, consider the purpose and intended use of your cross stitch project. Is it a personal piece for your home or a gift for a loved one? Different thread types excel in different scenarios. Silk threads are perfect for projects that will be on display for years to come, while metallic threads can add that extra touch of glamour to special occasion gifts.

Color Matching and Substitutions:

Sometimes, you might want to deviate from the recommended colors in a pattern or find that your chosen thread selection doesn’t match the required shades. Fear not! Cross stitch is all about creativity.
This could be as simple as just finding a replacement color, or it could be something like finding the perfect skin color thread or hair color threads.
But it could be about picking a metallic thread for that golden element or star…
Don’t feel like you have to follow the pattern perfectly!

Thread Quality and Recognizable Brands:

Quality matters when it comes to threads. Avoid frustration by opting for threads from reliable brands known for their consistent quality. Threads that break easily or knot frequently are signs of subpar quality. Stick with trusted brands like DMC for a smooth stitching experience, however, we’ve also ranked the best cross stitch thread brands to help you out.
We aren’t saying that cheaper brands aren’t worth it, in fact, they’re good too, but make sure its a brand name you know.

Choosing on a Budget:

Who says exceptional cross stitch projects have to break the bank?
DMC threads vary wildly in price, but thanks to great quality budget-friendly thread brands you can stitch on a budget without compromising on quality.
But that does come with downsides. CXC copy DMC, so they haven’t yet come up with their own glow-in-the-dark threads, variated threads or metallics.

Alternative Budget-Friendly Thread Brands:

We understand that budget considerations are essential for many cross stitchers. While DMC threads are widely acclaimed, there are other options worth exploring. CXC thread and Royal Broderie thread offer quality alternatives that won’t break the bank. These budget-friendly options can be excellent choices for everyday projects without compromising on quality.
However, we also suggest trying to find great cross stitch thread deals, or looking out for second-hand threads too.
 

Choosing the Right Thread for Specific Patterns:

OK, so now we know why we might use an alternative, how do you go about picking the right thread for the pattern?
Every cross stitch pattern has its own personality, telling a unique story through its design. But to truly bring these patterns to life, it’s essential to select the perfect thread that complements and enhances their characteristics.
 

Exploring Different Pattern Styles:

Cross stitch patterns come in various styles, from realistic to geometric to floral. Each style may call for a different thread type to achieve the desired effect. For intricate details, cotton floss shines, while metallic thread can create eye-catching accents. Silk threads lend themselves beautifully to projects with a timeless appeal.
However the item in the pattern can also have an impact. Stitching flowers? A silky silk thread will be best, even if your not going for a 100 year old cross stitch.

Matching Thread to Pattern Complexity:

Consider the complexity of the pattern you’re working on too. Intricate designs may benefit from using silk thread or specialty threads to capture the delicate nuances. But this also means that confetti stitch is going to be a pain (if there are a full set of colors to pick from).
Other patterns might gain from having variation threads to fill large blocks and truly make it pop. But it could also make it look a little less realistic, or not the style you were working towards.
 
However, this all being said; there is one VERY important rule:
Do what you want to.
It might be that you’re happy with your standard embroidery thread, or you like those silks; you do you! However also bear in mind that you can’t really go wrong either. Maybe it is time to experiment?

Happy stitching!
Lord Libidan