Machine quilting thread vs. regular thread

by Kay
(Yates Center, KS)

I have machine quilting thread. Do I use that in both the top and bobbin or regular thread in the bobbin?

Thanks.

Reply

Thread marked as 'machine quilting thread' can be used in both the needle and the bobbin.

Just remember to match the size of the needle to the thread—the thread should fill the eye from one third to less than one half way. (If your thread takes up much more space than that, it will create a lot of friction. The excess friction has a tendency to shred and then break it.)

Then match the needle type to the fabric.

Especially for higher thread count fabrics like batiks and cotton sateens, I like to use Schmetz's Microtex Sharp needles.

They have a slim, very acute point that helps the needle slide between the threads of your fabric. I use them for piecing, machine applique and quilting—love them!

Keep an eye out for thread marked for 'Hand Quilting'. It is glazed to help the thread slide through the layers making the hand quilting task easier. However, this thread is not interchangeable for machine quilting. The glazing with gum up the inner workings of your sewing machine...not good!

Thank you for your question.

Piecefully,

Julie Baird
Editor

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