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Bonded thread and high-tension sewing: 3 tips for choosing

bonded polyester sewing thread

Bonded thread and high-tension sewing

Bonded thread is good for high-tension sewing for two primary reasons: superior strength and resistance to wear and tear that can prevent fraying and unraveling under severe conditions. The bonding action of the thread fibers significantly increases the thread strength and durability, making it particularly well-suited for heavy-duty sewing projects that require long-lasting and robust seams.

  • Bonded filament sewing thread is commonly used for high-tension sewing applications because of its special coating construction, which helps to provide superior strength and durability to traditional threads.
  • The unique bonding of the thread fibers increases the strength of the thread and its ability to resist abrasion and wear. The thread coating also helps to prevent fraying and unraveling, which can be especially important in high-tension sewing applications where the fabric is stretched or pulled during use.
  • Bonded threads are suitable for high-tension sewing applications where the thread must withstand significant stress, pressure, or wear, mainly if the sewn item will experience recurring stress or is used under extreme conditions. The bonded thread can effectively prevent the seam from coming apart, ensuring the sewn product remains sturdy, intact, and long-lasting.

For a facility that uses high-speed, high-tension, and/or multidirectional sewing, choosing a bonded top thread will have a positive impact on production by minimizing slowdowns from slippage and breakage, resulting in less downtime and more productivity.

3 Tips for Choosing the Right Bonded Thread

bonded polyester sewing thread
bonded polyester sewing thread
  • Differences in tension should lead to different thread choices depending on the tension level in your devices and processes. Soft (unbonded) thread and bonded thread behave differently under tension.
  • The type of thread material is also a consideration. Polyester and nylon bonded threads usually have very similar tension characteristics as long as they are the same size. This means they are close enough in specs to generally not need tension adjustments when changing between them.
  • Soft thread generally has more tension while being pulled through a tension device and bonded thread will have less tension because it doesn’t flatten out. In addition, the bonded thread is generally lubricated which also reduces tension to some extent.

When does not require the use of bonded thread

In a machine that uses bobbins for the lower thread, using soft (unbonded) thread for the bobbin thread is preferable because it flattens out when being pulled out of the bobbin case. Bonded thread isn’t always a good choice for bobbins because it doesn’t lay as flat as soft thread. Since the bonded thread is typically used with lubricant, it can also create a buildup of lubrication that creates inconsistent tension after long periods of sewing.

Works Cited: What Effect Does Bonded Thread Have On Tensions in a Sewing Application?