SUPERIOR'S APPLIQUE THREADS

    Applique is the layering of fabric, usually a cutout shape placed on top of a base layer, and outline-stitched to make the fabrics one. There are several methods of applique such as hand applique, machine applique, and fusible applique. In addition to these three applique methods, there are different approaches to take with each method.

Decorative applique is when a variegated or high-sheen thread (or any decorative thread) is sewn as a blanket stitch or satin stitch around the shape being stitched to the base fabric. The result is a visible outlining stitch that can add dimension to the applique shape.

Invisible applique is when a fine or invisible thread, such as MonoPoly, is sewn in an outline stitch to the keep the applique shape to the base layer. Like it sounds, using a thread that is very fine helps hide the thread so visible stitches are hard to see. Bottom Line and Kimono Silk are two of our thread lines that are commonly used for invisible applique stitching. While most invisible applique is done on a machine, it is possible to hand stitch with a blind stitch.

Fusible applique is when a fusible thread or fusible web is used to stitch an outline onto the cutout shape only and is then pressed (ironed) on the base fabric. The fusible thread or fusible web melts and creates a temporary adhesive, keeping the two pieces of fabric together. A decorative or invisible thread can be used to secure the pieces together.

Applique Threads

Our Cotton Applique Threads

MasterPiece

50 wt. 3-ply cotton thread. MasterPiece is known to be one of nature’s finest threads. It is certified Egyptian-grown, extra-long staple cotton and designed to create perfectly pieced seams. With the finest spinning, twisting, dyeing, and finishing techniques, MasterPiece has extremely low lint. You and your machine will love the sewing experience.

Super Bobs Cotton

50 wt. 2-ply cotton thread. Super Bobs Cotton are prewound bobbins that are wound with MasterPiece Egyptian-grown extra-long staple cotton thread. MasterPiece bobbins create precise stitches, have very little lint, and each bobbin lasts longer due to precision winding. These bobbins hold 30-60% more thread than a self-wound bobbin. Enjoy the convenience of high quality prewound bobbins in 50 select blending colors. Super Bobs Cotton bobbins are available by the dozen and in special 25-bobbin collection sets in both Class 15 and L-style.

Our Invisible Applique Threads

MonoPoly

100 wt. (.004" in diameter). MonoPoly is a reduced-sheen monofilament polyester thread and is the best choice when it comes to invisible threads. Unlike other monofilament threads made from nylon, MonoPoly is 100% polyester. Commonly referred to as an invisible thread due to its fineness and reduced-sheen, MonoPoly is great for the bobbin or top. Available in two colors, smoke (for dark fabrics) and clear (for light fabrics). MonoPoly is ideal for invisible applique and quilting when the stitching is not meant to be seen. MonoPoly is recommended over nylon monofilament threads because MonoPoly will not become brittle over time (nylon monofilament thread tends to go brittle), MonoPoly will not discolor (nylon monofilament thread tends to yellow over time), and MonoPoly is dryer and iron safe on medium heat.

Kimono Silk

100 wt. 2-ply filament silk thread. Designed for quilting, applique, and binding. Kimono Silk is incredibly smooth and strong, especially considering its fine diameter. Silk threads have a beautiful natural sheen and are a favorite for binding quilts, by hand or machine. Available in 80 colors, including favorite neutral and blending color tones, Kimono Silk will almost disappear into the fabric.

Bottom Line

60 wt. 2-ply polyester thread. Designed for applique, bobbin thread, and quilting. Lint free never felt so good! Designed with award-winning quilter Libby Lehman, The Bottom Line makes a fantastic bobbin thread for any type of sewing. Its lightweight, blending colors are easily matched with any top thread. Available in 55 colors. Invisible applique and binding is a breeze with Bottom Line as it glides through layers of fabric.

Our Decorative Applique Threads

Fantastico

40 wt. 2-ply variegated trilobal polyester thread. Designed for embroidery, quilting, and decorative stitching. Bold variegated colors make Fantastico, well, fantastic! Made from the same high-strength fibers as our other trilobal polyester threads, Fantastico is a variegated high-strength high-sheen polyester thread with a one-inch precision dye pattern. Available in over 100 variegated color blends, we created a variegated combination for almost every need.

Magnifico

40 wt. 2-ply trilobal polyester thread. Designed for embroidery, quilting, and decorative stitching. Magnifico is a bold, strong thread created for embroidery and quilting. Magnifico is an extra-strength, high-sheen polyester that can handle the speed and tension of longarm and commercial machines, while displaying bold and beautiful shades of color. Available in 200 solid colors, so you won’t run out of color options. Unlike most high-strength trilobal polyester threads, Magnifico is heat set in processing, which eliminates unwanted shrinkage.

Metallic

40 wt. metallic thread. Designed for embroidery, quilting, and decorative stitching. Create beautiful designs with Superior Metallics thread. Available in 25 beautiful colors, including two variegated colors. Superior Metallics is made from the finest raw materials and undergo special processing to make it vibrant, strong, and smooth.

Our Fusible Applique Thread

Charlotte's Fusible Web

40 wt. fusible nylon thread. Charlotte's Fusible Web has been designed specifically for applique. Instead of using fusible web or stabilizer that goes stiff once fused to fabrics, fusible thread allows the appliqued piece to stay soft and supple. Charlotte’s Fusible Web will melt when exposed to temperatures ≥ 250° F. Sew a single outlining stitch of the applique piece with fusible thread in the bobbin and MonoPoly on top, place the shape on the base fabric, iron, then finish with decorative stitching or invisible stitching to permanently secure the applique shape to the base fabric. Wind a bobbin with fusible thread. If exposed to the metal plate of a hot iron, fusible thread will melt and stick. This is why we recommend MonoPoly as the top thread and Charlotte's Fusible Web as the bobbin thread

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