Which thread for sewing machines?

Hi everyone,

I need your advice again. The other day, I went to Rossmann to buy some new sewing thread for my sewing machine. They had “universal thread” and “top thread.” Is “top thread” for the upper thread of the sewing machine? And do you need a different kind of thread for the bobbin—that is, the lower thread? Can I use the top thread for the lower thread as well? So far, I’ve just been using whatever’s available, including the regular thread I usually use for hand sewing.

There are so many different kinds of sewing thread. What should I look for when buying thread for my sewing machine? Can you clarify this for me a bit?

And then the other day at the supermarket, I saw special “overlock thread.” Is that only for overlock sewing machines, or can it also be used in regular sewing machines?

Thank you very much—Ina

I prefer to use Troja thread 120 for both the top AND bottom threads. You really should use a brand-name thread, because those cheap ones have a nasty habit of breaking right when you need them the least. You can’t go wrong with overlock thread from Lidl—I like using it too; it’s very good quality.

Best regards, Inge

Thanks, Inge. I’ve had that experience with the thread breaking, too. That’s why I bought a new top thread at Rossmann, which I’m also using for the bottom thread.

Best regards, Ina

I’ve bought inexpensive thread before too. It came in a big, nice package with lots of colors.
But it didn’t turn out to be such a bargain after the threads started breaking, or the stitches weren’t the way they were supposed to be.
I also personally feel that the “cheap” threads produce more lint.
After that experience, I’ve only bought brand-name thread. But then again, I haven’t done that much sewing yet.

Best regards, Petra

I’ve also had sets of cheap, brittle cotton thread before. I find cotton a bit fuzzier than polyester thread.
These days, I mainly use Amann Mettler Seralon—my machine and I have had good experiences with it^^
Sewing thread comes in different weights, which should match the needle. My current project is made of red satin, so I recently picked out the best-matching color, wound the bobbin, and then hesitated when it came to threading the upper thread—for once, I’d picked up some thicker overlock thread that I would never have been able to get through the eye of the slim 60 Microtex needle.

Choosing the right sewing thread seems to be a little science in itself. But only if you’re already pretty deep into the subject. I’ve also noticed that some threads form fine lint. Since they’d probably feel right at home in the sewing machine, I’ve weeded them out.

I’ve noted that “Troja” or “Allem Amann Mettler Seralon” are recommended.

Thanks for your tips.
Best regards, Ina

I strongly advise against those cheap thread boxes. The bobbins rarely fit, either!

I sew with Gütermann Allesnäher; my Pfaff handles it great. Amann Mettler is also a good thread. And even with overlock thread, I recommend buying the more expensive kind.

The fun of sewing starts with the quality of your supplies!

Best regards,
Sonja

Thank you, dear Sonja, for your post. Now the sewing beginners among us have a good selection of recommended threads.

Best regards, Ina