yarn knowledge
How is sewing thread made?
According to DIN 60900, yarn is the general term for textile fibers arranged in a line that form a long, thin thread of any length. Sewing thread, on the other hand, is a type of yarn that is particularly suitable for sewing. There are different production methods in the manufacturing process. Sewing threads are usually twisted three, two or more times. In technical terms, this process is also known as twisting. However, there are also so-called monofilaments, which consist of only one so-called filament, i.e. a single fiber of any length. Fiber materials that are spun into sewing thread during production can be:
- Cotton
- hemp
- synthetic fibers
- Linen
- mixed yarns
- Paper
- Wool
In contrast, they are single-threaded. The resulting staple fiber yarns, which are created from the yarn twist of fibers of any length, are then singed or gassed. The fine fiber ends, which are also known as "fiber hairs", are removed in this step. The result is a fine, smooth look. At the same time, the feel changes from less fluffy to much more grippy. Cotton yarns and blended yarns with cotton are also often bleached and mercerized. Bleaching serves to remove or fade unwanted discoloration on the material. Mercerization, on the other hand, changes the fiber structure from kidney-shaped to round. This in turn has advantages due to the higher tear resistance and better dyeability and the reduced need for dye, which is important for the next finishing step. In the next production step, the textile yarns are dyed. In the penultimate step, the sewing threads created in this way receive a so-called yarn finish. Applying a finishing agent, which primarily increases the slipperiness and provides antistatic properties and a soft feel, is necessary so that the sewing thread can withstand stress, such as rapid unwinding or being shot in during processing. The last step is the respective packaging, i.e. winding onto different spool sizes and spool formats, for the respective purpose and requirement. The packaging varies from 10 meters for conventional use to up to several 10,000 meters for industry.
Which sewing thread is suitable for what?
With us you will find high-quality branded thread from Gütermann, which stands for high quality. It is very important to use a good sewing thread, as it can save you a lot of time and hassle. Inexpensive threads tend to tear more easily, as they usually have loose fibers that are difficult or even impossible to see with the human eye. Which textile thread you ultimately have to use depends on the fabric and your requirements for the respective seam.
- Cotton thread: This thread is ideal for sewing non-stretch fabrics. It is often used for simple trousers. The disadvantage, however, is that it is not as elastic and tears quickly when stretched too much. The appearance is often considered nicer than that of nylon, polyester or silk.
- Buttonhole thread: As the name implies, this sewing thread is used for buttonholes. It is also suitable for decorative stitching.
- Nylon and polyester yarns: These are well suited for fabrics with stretch. Polyester yarn usually has a certain sheen, which is why it is not necessarily suitable for every fabric and every project. However, due to its shimmering shine, it is also often used for embroidery.
- PA nylon yarn is suitable for sportswear, blankets, home textiles
- Silk yarn: This textile yarn is often used for fine and elastic fabrics. Silk yarns are also suitable for buttonholes, for sewing on buttons and for fur and leather goods.
Gütermann yarn – high-quality sewing threads
Why sewing thread from Gütermann?
The traditional Gütermann brand is one of the world's leading manufacturers of sewing threads with its high-quality yarn. For this traditional yarn producer, it's not just about the look and usability, but above all about the quality and safety of the yarn. Gütermann is also convincing in terms of sustainability and environmental protection, making it a highly recommended premium brand for sewing thread.
Approximately how much sewing thread do I need for my sewing project?
The amount of thread required naturally varies from sewing project to sewing project. However, approximate estimates can be made based on experience, but without guarantee. In general, the following sewing thread requirements apply for the following sewing projects in the usual standard sizes:
- shirt of about 60 to 100 meters
- Pants from about 230 to 380 meters
- Dress from about 140 to 200 meters
- mantle of about 240 to 320 meters
- skirt of about 90 to 200 meters
- Shoes from about 25 to 50 meters
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