Cotton Sewing Thread

Superior Threads manufactures a wide variety of threads.  High quality Cotton Sewing Thread is one of them.  With Superior's manufacturing process taking place in Japan, this allows for the highest quality control and rigorous testing to ensure a wonderful product.

With so many options for sewing thread, what makes a quality cotton sewing thread?

1. the quality of the cotton fibers, and
2. the method of processing.

Since Cotton is a natural fiber, it is classified by the length of the staple, or fibers. We often hear the term 'long-staple cotton' but we never hear the term 'regular-staple cotton' although the majority of cotton thread is regular staple.

Superior's cotton sewing thread sets the standard for high-quality cotton sewing thread.  Many industry professionals and beginners alike, rely on the world class customer service and products Superior Thread delivers.

Brand X boasts quality too!?

Ahhh, but is it?

There are three classifications of cotton:

1. Regular staple. The average length of the fiber is an inch and one-eighth (1.125 inches).
2. Long staple. The average length of the fiber is an inch and a quarter (1.25 inches).
3. Extra-long staple (ELS). The length of the fiber is an inch and three-eighths (1.375 inches) or greater. Some extra-long staple cotton fibers are as long as two inches. Egyptian-grown extra-long staple cotton is subject to unique handling and treatment. To protect the cotton fibers from damage and rough handling, only leather-coated rollers are used in the cotton gins.

A long-staple cotton thread may cost 50% more than a regular-staple thread. Likewise, an ELS cotton thread may cost 50% more than a long-staple thread. With a difference of only one-eighth inch between the classifications, is it worth the extra cost to use the higher grade cotton? Yes, yes, yes! With each upgrade, you will have a much stronger thread and a lot less lint. The value of a long staple thread over a regular staple thread is ten times. Similarly, the value of an extra-long staple thread over a long staple thread is ten times. The increased value is evident in strength, meaning less breakage and less down time, and also in the reduced amount of lint, which means less wear on your machine and less cleaning time. If you have never tried an extra-long staple cotton, you're in for a very pleasant surprise. It is like going from a Model A Ford to a brand new Cadillac.

Although the main difference in quality is determined by the staple length, processing also contributes to the quality of the thread. Whereas some inexpensive regular-staple cotton is not mercerized, almost all long staple and extra-long staple thread is mercerized. Mercerizing is a process of treating cotton thread, causing the fibers to swell. This process allows the dye to better penetrate the fibers, thereby increasing the luster and strengthening the thread. Even if a thread is not labeled 'mercerized cotton,' if it is a long or extra-long staple, it probably is mercerized.

If the thread has a hard and shiny coating or wire-like stiffness, it is probably a glazed thread. Glazing involves heating the thread and then coating it with waxes, starches, and other chemicals, resulting in a glossy thread with a hard finish. Most professionals do not recommend glazed threads for machine work because the glaze rubs off and gums up the machine.

Although the differences in length are minimal, the difference in output is greatly measurable.  The best way to tell if a thread is a good thread is to use it yourself and see if it fits the scale above.

All of our threads must meet rigorous quality standards enforced by our factories. Our cotton sewing thread will not only make your seams lie flat, but will put off less lint allowing a more enjoyable sewing experience. Sewing with a high quality Cotton Sewing Thread ensures a short, tight seam between blocks and very little lint.

Our threads are available worldwide in quilt shops and sewing-supply stores. If you can’t find our products locally, our website is open 24/7, and you are always welcome to give us a call at 800-499-1777. We invite you to try our thread and see for yourself. You will be very pleased using the best bobbin thread. If we weren’t confident in our product, we wouldn’t guarantee it!