Sewing thread can work for embroidery, but it's not ideal for most projects
Yes, you can embroider with regular sewing thread in a pinch, but the results will be noticeably different from embroidery thread, and the work will be harder. Sewing thread is thinner, less lustrous, and more prone to fraying and breaking under the repeated tension of embroidery stitches. For straightforward, small projects or repairs, sewing thread is usable. For anything you want to last or look polished, embroidery thread is the better choice.
The core difference is construction. Sewing thread is made to run through a machine at high speed for long distances. Embroidery thread is twisted and finished to handle the stop-and-start motion of hand stitching, where the needle passes through the same small area many times. That repeated puncturing and pulling wears sewing thread down faster.
Key Takeaways
- Sewing thread works for embroidery but produces thinner lines, less shine, and more visible fraying than embroidery thread.
- Sewing thread breaks more easily under embroidery tension because it's not designed for the repeated puncturing of hand stitching.
- For small repairs or temporary work, sewing thread is acceptable; for finished projects, embroidery thread gives better results.
- Embroidery thread comes in more colors and finishes (matte, glossy, metallic) than most sewing thread, giving you more design options.
Why sewing thread and embroidery thread are different
Sewing thread is a single strand or loosely twisted bundle designed to move smoothly through a sewing machine needle and bobbin. It's relatively thin and has a slight sheen, but it's not built to withstand repeated hand stitching in the same spot. The fibers can separate and fray where the needle enters and exits the fabric.
Embroidery thread is tightly twisted and often has a finish applied to the surface that holds the fibers together. This finish protects the thread from fraying when you're pushing and pulling a needle through fabric dozens of times in a small area. Embroidery thread is also usually thicker (measured in strands or ply) so each stitch shows up clearly and the finished work looks intentional rather than accidental.
The visual difference matters too. Sewing thread has a matte finish and minimal sheen. Embroidery thread comes in matte, glossy, and metallic finishes. If you're doing decorative work, that sheen catches light and makes the stitching pop. Sewing thread will look flat and thin by comparison.
When sewing thread is acceptable for embroidery
Sewing thread works fine for small, temporary embroidery jobs. If you're reinforcing a seam, adding a decorative stitch to a pocket, or doing a quick repair, sewing thread will hold. The stitches won't be as neat or as durable, but they'll do the job.
Sewing thread also works if you're embroidering on heavy fabric like denim or canvas, where the fabric itself is sturdy enough to support weaker thread. The fabric bears some of the stress, so the thread doesn't have to. For lightweight or delicate fabrics, sewing thread is more likely to break or pull through.
If you're learning embroidery and don't want to buy supplies yet, sewing thread is a reasonable starting point. You'll get a feel for the stitches and tension, though you'll notice the limitations as you go. Once you move to embroidery thread, the difference will be obvious.
The problems you'll run into with sewing thread
The most common issue is breakage. Sewing thread isn't as strong as embroidery thread when it's being pulled repeatedly through the same holes. You'll find yourself rethreading the needle more often, which slows you down and breaks your focus.
Fraying is the second problem. As the needle punctures sewing thread over and over, the fibers separate. You'll see loose wisps at the edges of your stitches, making the work look unfinished. Embroidery thread resists this because of its tighter twist and surface finish.
Sewing thread also shows less definition. Because it's thinner and duller, each stitch blends into the fabric more. If you're doing decorative embroidery, you want the stitches to stand out. With sewing thread, they fade into the background.
What embroidery thread offers that sewing thread doesn't
Embroidery thread comes in hundreds of colors, including shades and metallics that sewing thread doesn't offer. If you're matching a specific color or adding a metallic accent, embroidery thread gives you options. Sewing thread is usually limited to basic colors and neutrals.
Embroidery thread also comes in different weights. Six-strand floss is the most common for hand embroidery; you can separate it into thinner strands for fine detail or use all six for bold lines. Perle cotton is thicker and has a permanent sheen. Metallic thread adds sparkle. Sewing thread doesn't offer this flexibility.
The durability difference matters for anything you plan to keep. Embroidery thread holds up to washing, wearing, and time better than sewing thread. If you're embroidering a garment or a keepsake, embroidery thread is the investment that pays off.
How to make sewing thread work better if that's what you have
If you're committed to using sewing thread, a few adjustments help. Use shorter thread lengths—cut about 18 inches instead of the full arm's length. Shorter thread breaks less often because there's less of it to fray. Work slowly and don't pull hard; let the needle do the work instead of forcing it through.
Use a smaller needle if possible. A finer needle makes a smaller hole, which means less stress on the thread. Wax your thread before you start; run it across a block of beeswax or thread conditioner. This seals the fibers and reduces fraying. You can buy thread conditioner at any fabric store for a few dollars.
Stick to straightforward stitches. Running stitch and backstitch are more forgiving than complex stitches that require multiple passes through the same area. The fewer times the needle goes through the same spot, the longer the thread lasts.
Embroidery thread is inexpensive and worth buying
A spool of embroidery thread costs between 50 cents and two dollars, depending on the type and where you buy it. Six-strand floss, the most common type for hand embroidery, is usually under a dollar. For the difference in quality and ease, it's worth picking up a few colors that match your project.
You can buy embroidery thread at any fabric store, online, or even at many drugstores. It's not a specialty item. A small starter set of basic colors costs five to ten dollars and will last through many projects. If you're planning to embroider more than once, buying proper thread saves frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will sewing thread hold up if I wash the embroidered item?
Sewing thread will hold, but it's more likely to fray or loosen after repeated washing than embroidery thread. If you're embroidering something you plan to wash regularly—a kitchen towel, a child's garment—embroidery thread is the safer choice. Sewing thread works for decorative items that don't get washed often.
Can I use embroidery thread in my sewing machine?
Not reliably. Embroidery thread is thicker and more textured than sewing thread, and it can jam or break in a sewing machine. Some machines have a special embroidery mode and can handle it, but most will skip stitches or shred the thread. Stick with sewing thread for machine work and embroidery thread for hand stitching.
What's the difference between embroidery floss and embroidery thread?
Embroidery floss (usually six-strand floss) is loosely twisted so you can separate it into thinner strands for detail work. Embroidery thread is a single, finished strand. Floss is more versatile for hand embroidery; thread is better for machine embroidery or when you want a bolder line. Both work for hand embroidery, depending on the effect you want.
Can I use sewing thread for cross-stitch?
Cross-stitch works better with embroidery floss because the stitches need to be even and visible. Sewing thread is too thin and dull, so your cross-stitches won't show up clearly. If you're just learning, sewing thread will work, but switching to floss will make a noticeable difference in how the finished piece looks.