Higher quality 50 wt. threads offer a nice thin thread that won't add a lot of bulk to seams when piecing a quilt. They are also ideal for machine quilting, appliqué, hand piecing, and hand appliqué.
When discussing weight of thread, the smaller the number, the thicker the thread. The weight is determined by how many meters of thread it takes for a skein to weigh one kilogram. In this case, the 40 wt thread is slightly thicker (heavier) than the 50 wt thread.
A 30 weight thread is heavier than a 50 weight because it is denser and takes only 30 kilometers to equal one kilogram compared to 50. – The fraction on the thread spool tells you the weight and the number of plies or strands twisted together (for instance, 60/2 is 60 weight thread with 2 plies).
50wt Aurifil thread can be used for machine piecing, hand piecing, machine applique, hand needle turned applique, fine needlework, foundation piecing, miniature patchwork, detailed quilting, bobbin lace making, and machine embroidery.
In the world of thread, higher numbers mean thinner thread. So 80 wt. is thinner than 50 wt. (which is the most common sewing thread). You might think that thin thread would be weak, but Aurifil 80 wt. is thin and strong!
These are the types of threads that you will most frequently find, most often 40 or 50wt. They can be used for most construction, quilting, machine embroidery, sergers, and general purpose sewing. Medium weight threads can be made from all types of materials including cotton, polyester, rayon, and even metallic.
Needle size is determined by the weight of the thread.
It is helpful to remember that a 50 weight thread should be paired with a size 80/12 needle. (80 is the European size, while 12 is the American needle numbering system.)
A fine 50 weight cotton thread but strong with a silky finish for those who prefer to sew with cotton. Suitable for hand or machine sewing, Gutermann Cotton Thread is a 100% longstaple mercerized cotton sewing thread.
40wt is a thread that is significantly heavier than 60wt, and noticeably heavier than the 50wt. While it is always good to have different size threads on hand, just in case, I don't usually sew on heavy fabrics, but I do consider the 40wt thread essential for my sewing stash.
Tex 70 is the heaviest commercial size recommended for home sewing machines. Heavier threads make your stitching more visible. The thread size measures the thread's thickness. If another weight is given for thread (like ounces), it refers to the amount of thread on the spool.
Gutermann Hand Quilting Thread is a 40 weight 3-ply natural Cotton Thread but strong with a silk-like luster for those who prefer to sew with natural fibers.
The three most common sizes of thread in the U.S. are 30, 40, and 50 wt. (For comparison, all-purpose thread is usually 40 wt.) It's best to know your project and possible strain on the seams before choosing a thread.
It is listed on the spool. The important thing to remember about thread weight is that the bigger the number the lighter, or finer, the thread is. Manufacturers measure the length of one gram of thread. If it is 40 meters long, then the thread weight is 40.
The thread count may be as low as 50-140, but still be a high quality fabric and with incredible strength. Linen which is stiff when constructed, softens with use and lasts decades. On the other hand, good quality cotton with a higher thread count of 180 or more, won't last as long.
Such a thin thread is perfect for a variety of techniques, including English Paper Piecing, Hand Applique, Machine Embroidery, Machine Applique, Free Motion Quilting, Free Motion Couching, and more. Needle Recommendations: 70/10 or 80/12 Microtex/Sharp or Embroidery Needle (80wt in the bobbin) #10 hand sewing needle.
Example: If a thread is labeled 40 wt. then 40 kilometers of that thread weigh 1 kilogram. A 30 wt. thread is heavier because it takes only 30 kilometers of thread to weigh one kilogram.
9.Sewing & serging sheer or lightweight fabrics
These fabrics can be difficult to work with, but using a fine 80 or 100wt thread allows the fabric to not be weighed down by the stitching, nor will the stitches show up in sheer fabrics.
A standard for all kinds of embroidery work, it's always good to have plenty of white thread close at hand. This 90-weight white bobbin thread is gauged specifically for Brother embroidery machines and perfectly balances the needle thread.
It works great for top-stitching as it is a more noticeable stitch. This thick thread covers large areas faster with less stitches than a 40 weight thread. It therefore requires a larger needle and more machine tension. Use 30 weight for decorative stitches or to completely fill in your embroidery designs.
Your standard thread will often come in a medium 40 or 50 weight. But a huge variety of other threads exist in super fine 100 weight, or super chunky 3 weight options too.
Quilting cotton is a plain weave fabric always made with 100% cotton and weighs around 140gsm/4 oz per yard.
40 weight thread can be used for free-motion techniques, appliqué, garment construction, quilting, tacking…the list goes on! 40 weight thread can also be used in partnership with other threads.
Polyester makes a strong durable thread suitable for all types of sewing. Polyester thread doesn't shrink or fade when washed.
Heavier weight threads are more noticeable when they are used for quilting. A 40 weight thread is a popular choice for quilting while 30 weight threads are more visible. Lighter 50 weight threads usually blend into the fabric.