Threads and Fibers for Hand Embroidery: Selecting the Best Materials for Your Project

Embroidering by hand is an age-old craft that turns threads and fibres into stunning works of art. At LindeHobby, we understand that selecting the right materials is crucial for achieving the finest detailing and durability in your projects. As devotees of all things yarn, we ensure our enthusiasts have access to a vast array of threads perfect for their embroidering needs. Whether you are aiming for shimmering effects or texture-laden finishes, the right thread makes all the difference.

Choosing threads isn't just about colour; it also involves understanding the thread composition and how it behaves with various fabrics. From the silky smoothness of rayon to the rustic charm of cotton, each thread has its own attributes. Our hand embroidery inventory caters to all, from beginners to seasoned stitchers, offering everything from the classic stranded cotton to specialty threads that add dimension and sparkle.

Beyond threads, there are additional materials vital for hand embroidery. Essential items such as needles, hoops, stabilisers, and even the fabric itself play pivotal roles. Our comprehensive selection aims to deliver not just the best products but also exceptional service. With competitive prices, we provide an extensive selection while also ensuring the fastest delivery, clear peace of mind with our returns policy, and the most secure online transaction, so that your embroidery venture is as delightful as the craft itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Quality threads and fibres are essential for exquisite hand embroidery.
  • Thread choice is influenced by factors like composition, intended effects, and fabric compatibility.
  • Additional materials such as needles and hoops are crucial for the embroidery process.

Threads

Embroidery threads are the lifeline of our craft, providing varied textures, sheens, and strengths. Each type offers unique properties suited for specific embroidery techniques.

Embroidery Floss

Embroidery floss is comprised of six strands that can be separated, allowing us to adjust the thickness. It's perfect for a variety of stitches and available in a spectrum of colours.

  • Composition: Cotton
  • Texture: Smooth
  • Use: Versatile for different stitches
  • Packaging: Skeins

Pearl Cotton

Pearl cotton is a non-divisible thread with a distinctive twist, creating a subtle sheen. Ideal for surface embroidery, it adds dimension and volume.

  • Composition: Mercerised cotton
  • Texture: Slightly twisted and glossy
  • Use: Embroidery requiring raised texture
  • Sizes: 3, 5, 8, 12 (thickest to thinnest)

Silk Threads

Silk threads convey elegance and give a luxurious finish. They're strong, yet delicate, suitable for sophisticated projects.

  • Composition: Natural silk
  • Texture: Smooth with a natural sheen
  • Use: High-end, detailed embroidery

Metallic Threads

Metallic threads provide a sparkle effect, enhancing the design with their reflective properties. We suggest using a shorter length to prevent fraying.

  • Composition: Polyester core with metallic foil
  • Texture: Shiny, can be stiff
  • Use: Adding glitz and glamour

Satin and Rayon Threads

Satin and rayon threads boast a high sheen and silk-like appearance. Their smoothness renders a bright, sleek look to embroidery.

  • Composition: Synthetic fibres (rayon), polyester (satin)
  • Texture: Very shiny and soft
  • Use: Sheen and smooth texture in embroidery

Overdyed Threads

Overdyed threads are known for their variegated colour patterns. They create unique, multi-tonal effects in embroidery work.

  • Composition: Could be cotton, silk, or a blend
  • Texture: Varies by base thread
  • Use: Achieving a multi-coloured, dyed effect

Wool Threads

Wool threads offer a warm, fuzzy texture to our embroidery projects. They're typically thicker, making them excellent for wool appliqué and crewel work.

  • Composition: Wool or wool blends
  • Texture: Thick and soft
  • Use: Embroidery that requires a raised, textured effect

Additional Materials

Embroidery enthusiasts often seek varied materials to add texture and distinction to their projects. We explore some additional materials to consider.

Ribbon

Ribbons, available in silk, satin, and cotton, provide a glossy sheen and dimensional effect. When using ribbon, it's best to use short lengths to avoid fraying and achieve optimal control.

Floche

Floche is a mercerised cotton thread with a soft twist and lustrous finish. It is thicker than standard cotton floss but finer than pearl cotton, which creates smooth, flat stitches on your fabric.

Novelty Threads

These special threads include materials such as glow-in-the-dark or metallic options, furnishing unique visual effects. They might require specific needles:

  • Metallic threads: Use a larger eye needle.
  • Textured threads: Opt for an embroidery needle that matches the thread texture.

Wired Threads

For creating three-dimensional embroidery works, wired threads are instrumental. They are malleable, so you can shape your stitches and they will hold their form.

  • Maintain tension: Wired threads must be handled carefully to avoid kinking.
  • Securing ends: Ensure the wire ends are firmly secured to prevent unraveling.