Thread is sold at fabric stores, craft chains, big-box retailers, and online marketplaces, each with different prices, selection, and convenience
You can find sewing thread at dozens of places, but the best choice depends on what you need right now. If you need thread today, a fabric store or craft chain near you will have it in stock. If you're buying in bulk or want the lowest price, online retailers often beat local prices. If you want to match thread color to fabric you're holding, you need to shop in person. The type of thread you're looking for — all-purpose polyester, specialty thread, or industrial-weight — also narrows where to look, because not every store carries every kind.
Key Takeaways
- Fabric stores and Joann Fabrics carry the widest selection of thread types and colors, and staff can help you match thread to your project.
- Craft chains like Michaels and Hobby Lobby stock basic all-purpose thread but have smaller selections than dedicated fabric stores.
- Walmart and Target carry thread in limited colors and types, usually only all-purpose polyester in common shades.
- Online retailers like Amazon, Etsy, and specialty thread sellers offer the lowest prices and the widest range of specialty threads, but you cannot see the color in person.
- Thread prices vary widely — all-purpose polyester ranges from under $1 to $3 per spool depending on where you buy and what brand you choose.
Fabric stores and specialty retailers
Joann Fabrics is the largest fabric store chain in the United States and carries thread in hundreds of colors and types. They stock all-purpose polyester, cotton, specialty threads for embroidery and serger machines, and brands like Gutermann, Coats, and Mettler. Most Joann locations have staff who can help you match thread to fabric. Joann runs frequent sales and coupons — their website and app show current discounts, and you can often find 40 to 50 percent off coupons for a single item.
Independent fabric stores in your area may carry thread, though selection varies widely. Some specialize in quilting and carry dozens of thread colors; others stock only basics. Call ahead to confirm they have what you need. Independent stores often have staff with deep knowledge of thread types and can recommend the right weight and fiber for your specific project.
Craft chains and general retailers
Michaels and Hobby Lobby both carry thread, usually in a wall section near the sewing supplies. Selection is smaller than at fabric stores — typically 50 to 100 colors of all-purpose polyester, plus a few specialty options. Prices are often higher than Joann, but both chains run sales and accept manufacturer coupons. Michaels has a rewards program that gives you points on purchases.
Walmart and Target stock thread in the sewing section, but only in basic colors and types. You will find all-purpose polyester in black, white, navy, and a few other common shades, but not specialty threads or hard-to-match colors. These stores are useful if you need thread in a pinch and do not want to drive far, but selection is limited.
Online retailers and specialty sellers
Amazon carries thread from dozens of brands and sellers. Prices are often lower than brick-and-mortar stores, and you can find specialty threads — embroidery, serger, metallic, variegated — that local stores may not stock. The drawback is that you cannot see the actual color on screen; what appears on your monitor may look different in person. Read reviews carefully, and check the return policy before ordering.
Etsy hosts independent thread sellers who specialize in hand-dyed, vintage, and hard-to-find threads. Prices are higher than mass-market retailers, but selection is enormous. Shipping times vary because many Etsy sellers are small operations.
Specialty thread retailers like Threadart, Gutermann's direct site, and Coats' online store sell thread in bulk and offer colors and types you will not find elsewhere. These sites are useful if you sew regularly and want to stock up, or if you need a specific thread type for a particular machine or technique.
What to know before you buy
Thread comes in different weights and fibers, and not all thread works in all machines. All-purpose polyester thread is the most common and works in most home sewing machines. Cotton thread is used for quilting and hand sewing. Serger machines need serger thread, which is thinner and comes on larger cones. Embroidery machines use embroidery thread, which is thicker and shinier than all-purpose thread. Check your machine manual or the project instructions to see what type of thread you need.
Color matching is easier in person. If you are sewing a garment or project where thread color matters, bring your fabric to the store and hold thread spools next to it in natural light. Online, you can order a few colors and return what does not match, but this takes time. Some online sellers offer color-matching services — you send a photo or fabric swatch and they recommend thread colors.
Thread prices vary by brand, type, and where you buy. A spool of all-purpose polyester from a discount retailer might cost $0.50 to $1.00, while the same thread at a fabric store might be $1.50 to $3.00. Specialty threads cost more — embroidery thread often runs $2 to $5 per spool. Buying in bulk online can lower the per-spool cost if you sew regularly.
Comparing price and convenience
| Where to Buy | Selection | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joann Fabrics | Hundreds of colors and types | $1.50–$3.00 per spool | Color matching, specialty threads, sales |
| Independent fabric stores | Varies widely | $1.50–$4.00 per spool | informed information, unique threads |
| Michaels / Hobby Lobby | 50–100 colors, mostly all-purpose | $1.50–$2.50 per spool | Quick shopping, coupons |
| Walmart / Target | 20–30 basic colors | $0.50–$1.50 per spool | Emergency thread, lowest price |
| Amazon | Hundreds of colors and types | $0.50–$3.00 per spool | Bulk orders, specialty threads, low price |
| Specialty online retailers | Extensive specialty selection | $2.00–$6.00 per spool | Hand-dyed, vintage, hard-to-find threads |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any thread in my sewing machine?
No. All-purpose polyester or cotton thread works in most home machines, but serger machines need serger thread, and embroidery machines need embroidery thread. Check your machine manual to see what weight and type it accepts. Using the wrong thread can break needles or jam the machine.
What is the difference between cheap thread and expensive thread?
Cheaper thread often has more lint, breaks more easily, and can leave residue in your machine. Expensive thread from brands like Gutermann or Mettler is more consistent, breaks less, and produces cleaner stitches. For everyday sewing, mid-range thread ($1.50–$2.00 per spool) is usually a good balance. For heirloom projects or detailed work, investing in higher-quality thread is worth it.
Should I buy thread online or in a store?
Buy in a store if you need thread today, want to match color to fabric, or are new to sewing and want staff help. Buy online if you know exactly what you need, want the lowest price, or are looking for specialty threads. Many sewers do both — they buy basics online in bulk and visit a store when they need to match a specific color.
How much thread do I need for a project?
A standard spool of all-purpose thread (about 250 yards) is enough for most garments and small projects. Larger projects like quilts or heavy fabrics use more thread. Check your pattern instructions — most include a thread requirement. When in doubt, buy one extra spool; thread does not expire and you will use it eventually.
Where can I find thread colors that match my fabric exactly?
Bring your fabric to a fabric store and hold thread spools next to it in natural light — fluorescent store lighting can make colors look different than they will at home. If you are shopping online, order two or three similar colors and return what does not match. Some online sellers offer color-matching services where you send a photo or fabric swatch and they recommend thread colors.