Selecting the right sewing thread for your project is a critical decision – it can significantly affect the durability, longevity, and quality of the finished product. Polyester and nylon filament threads are the most popular options due to their ability to resist wear, tear, and breakage. In this article, we will outline the advantages and disadvantages of each thread to determine which one is better for sewing.
Sewing thread is an integral part of any sewing project, and investing in high-quality thread can make a big difference in the durability and longevity of the finished products. When it comes to nylon and polyester, both threads offer excellent strength, durability, and versatility for day-to-day sewing tasks.
Table of Contents
Advantages and Disadvantages of Polyester Thread
Polyester thread is the most commonly used sewing thread, offering a range of advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages
- Polyester thread is abrasion-resistant, making it ideal for sewing heavy-duty materials such as denim, leather, and canvas.
- It is highly resistant to UV rays, making it retain its color after prolonged exposure to sunlight.
- Its high strength-to-weight ratio and low shrinkage make it an ideal option for sewing garments that demand durability.
- Polyester is less likely to break or fray during the sewing process, which allows for uninterrupted sewing.
Disadvantages
- Polyester thread has a lower melting temperature, which makes it more prone to melting during the pressing process.
- Depending on the quality of the thread, it may get easily caught in the sewing machine, leading to skipping stitches, and breaking.
- Polyester thread tends to be less flexible, which makes it less suitable for stretch fabrics.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Nylon Filament Thread
Nylon filament thread is another popular thread choice, with its own set of advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages
- Nylon filament thread has high elasticity, which makes it an excellent thread for sewing stretch fabrics, footwear, and swimwear.
- It has excellent resistance to abrasion, which allows it to provide long-lasting durability.
- Nylon filament thread is strong and flexible, making it ideal for sewing thick and heavy fabrics.
- It melts at a higher temperature than polyester, making it less prone to melting or breaking during the pressing process.
Disadvantages
- Nylon thread, if exposed to sunlight for prolonged periods, may weaken over time.
- It is more likely to break or fray during the sewing process due to its low-tensile strength.
Comparison between Polyester and Nylon Filament Thread
To facilitate a better understanding of the two types of threads, the table below compares the advantages and disadvantages of polyester and nylon filament threads.
Comparison Table for Polyester and Nylon Filament Thread
| Thread Properties | Polyester Thread | Nylon Filament Thread |
|---|---|---|
| Abrasion Resistance | High | Excellent |
| UV Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Elasticity/Flexibility | Less Flexible | High Elasticity |
| Tensile Strength | High | Low |
| Melting Temperature | Lower | Higher |
| Durability | High | High |
| Usage | Heavy-duty materials | Stretchy materials |
From the table above, it is evident that polyester performs better when it comes to resistance to UV rays, abrasion resistance, and overall strength. Nylon filament thread, on the other hand, has high elasticity and is better suited for stretch and footwear materials.
Which One is Better for Sewing?
Choosing between the two types of threads ultimately depends on the type of project you intend to sew. Polyester thread works impeccably for heavyweight and heavy-duty materials that require abrasion and UV resistance. Nylon filament thread works best with materials that require elasticity, such as stretch fabrics or swimsuits.
For projects that demand both strength and elasticity, you can use a blend of polyester and nylon. This hybrid thread will offer the best of both worlds, providing high strength, flexibility, and durability.
Summary
The decision between polyester and nylon filament thread depends on the sewing project’s specific requirements. While both threads have distinct properties that make them ideal for some purposes, neither is perfect for every project. It’s essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each thread when considering which is best for your specific outings.
In conclusion, having a clear understanding of what each sewing thread offers is critical in determining the best choice for your project. By considering the pros and cons of both polyester and nylon filament thread options, you’re better placed to select the right thread to meet your sewing needs.
References
- The Spruce Crafts. (2021). The Best Sewing Threads to Use for Any Sewing Project. Retrieved from https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/sewing-threads-explained-guide-to-types-and-uses-2977744 on August 30, 2021.
- The Fabric Store. (2021). Sewing with Polyester Thread: The Good, The Bad, and The Unclear. Retrieved from https://www.thefabricstore.com.au/blog/sewing-with-polyester-thread-the-good-the-bad-and-the-unclear/ on August 30, 2021.
- Sailrite. (2021). How to Choose the Right Sewing Thread for Your Project. Retrieved from https://www.sailrite.com/How-to-Choose-the-Right-Sewing-Thread-for-Your-Project on August 30, 2021.
- Sew Guide. (2021). Nylon Thread – How to Use it for Sewing. Retrieved from https://sewguide.com/nylon-thread/ on August 30, 2021.
- Sew4Home. (2021). Sewing with Specialty Threads: Nylon. Retrieved from https://sew4home.com/2016/10/24/sewing-specialty-threads-nylon/ on August 30, 2021.
- The Sewing Loft. (2021). A Comprehensive Guide To Sewing Threads. Retrieved from https://thesewingloftblog.com/comprehensive-guide-to-sewing-threads/ on August 30, 2021.