talkin' thread

There is no topic that thrills me more than the one at hand - thread.

Ok, I kid. Sew Mama, Sew is doing a little giveaway and survey about thread, and I am excited to participate. Although thread may seem insignificant, it can add something special to any project.

On with the questions!

How did you select colors for your personal thread collection?

Occasionally I will specifically buy a spool of thread for a project, I usually just pick out colors I like. I have a lot of white thread, but I also like to pick out bright colors on a whim.

Do you always match the color perfectly to your project?

Nope.

Do you ever use contrasting thread?

Yup. Especially on more "fun" projects. I also like to use contrasting thread on projects that are only one color - like using red or yellow thread on denim.

Do you use the same color in the bobbin as the upper thread?

Usually. If I have a bobbin in a weird color, I will use it up on a project where the seams will not show.

What if a fabric has big areas of very different colors?

I pick a color that is a happy medium between all colors.

Do you have any tips or suggestions about choosing thread?

Grey. Grey thread tends to completely disappear in a patterned fabric. When I worked in a costume shop and was sewing a lot of different period garments all the time, we used grey, brown, and other somber-colored thread the most. For my Parfait dress, I used an olive green, a color not evident in the dress at first glance, but it really disappeared once sewn.

Can you show us a picture(s) of your thread collection?

Awww, if you twist my arm....

I do actually keep my thread in this pretty green glass dish. It sits on the window sill right above my sewing machine. Bobbins are in the bottom. Not exactly the easiest way to access them, but I like it!

Do you ever buy thread because you fall in love with the color (without a particular project in mind)?

Oh yes, especially if it's on sale!

Do you “invest” in thread?

Not in a huge way, but I do have a constant stash.

What types of thread do you have? (elastic, quilting, all-purpose, wool, etc.)

A little bit of all types! I inherited (stole) some from my mother. I've picked up vintage wool & cotton threads, and I usually buy all-purpose. I think I have some elastic thread somewhere, but I have not yet taken the plunge of actually putting it in my machine.

I hope you've enjoyed this informative survey on thread!