This article provides a step-by-step guide on setting up a sewing machine for denim, covering the different types of thread, factors to consider when choosing, and the importance of thread quality for successful denim projects. It also discusses the ideal thread weight and colors for denim, as well as the use of a fresh needle when sewing with denim.
For topstitching, it is recommended to use a 90/14 needle for light- and medium-weight denim, and a 100/16 for heavy-weight denim. For topstitching, switch to an upholstery or topstitching thread if needed. It is important to ensure that the correct thread type and size are being used in both the needle and bottom (looper) positions.
Core threads with a continuous filament polyester core are more resistant to cutting. When sewing with denim fabric, a thicker needle of size 14 or 16 is necessary due to its thick seams. Adjusting the sewing machine to a longer stitch length of 3-4mm is also recommended. Denim comes in different thicknesses (light, medium, and heavy weight) and different fiber contents (stretch denim vs. non-stretch denim).
When sewing and hemming jeans, it is essential to use heavier thread sizes like Tex 150, Tex 180, Tex 240, and even Tex 300. For light- and medium-weight denim, ordinary universal domestic machine needles in a size 14/90 may be fine. For denim, a size 100/16 or a 110/18 Sharp/microtex needle is required.
For neat topstitching, use suitable denim thread and needle, and sew with slightly longer stitches. If using a standard needle, ensure you use at least a size 90/14. For thicker denim, use a 100/16.
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How do I know what size thread to use?
Threads are measured in threads per inch (TPI) by counting the number of thread peaks along a one-inch length and measuring the major diameter of the screw. The metric system uses millimeters (mm) to measure screw thread sizes, but thread pitch is used instead. To calculate thread pitch, measure the distance between two adjacent threads at their peaks, then take the major diameter of the screw (M6). If the pitch is 1mm, the screw size is M6 x 1mm. To determine thread pitch, use a caliper for accuracy and measure the distance between two adjacent threads at their peaks.
What stitch setting for denim?
To guarantee seamless denim seams, it is essential to utilise a longer stitch length for straight stitching and a longer stitch for topstitching. For general sewing, a stitch length of 2. 2 is recommended on a machine, while for denim, a stitch length of 2. 8-3 is advised. It is inadvisable to employ a hammer for the purpose of topstitching, as this can result in the formation of thick seams, which may prove problematic when attempting to topstitch with skipped stitches and bent needles.
Is denim thread the same as regular thread?
Jean Thread is a thicker thread designed for sewing denim and is often used with a Jean Needle. It comes in classic gold or blue-grey hues and is slightly variegated for blending with fabric. Metallic Thread is used for embroidering and decorative topstitching but is not strong and breaks easily. It is made with a polyester core and wrapped with metal foil/tinsel. It should not be used with high heat or steam as it can weaken stitches.
Quilting Thread is made from cotton, polyester, or a blend of both and is mercerized for increased strength and color longevity. It is gassed to reduce lint and is suitable for both machine and hand quilting. Popular brands for quilting thread include Aurifil and King Tut.
Can a normal sewing machine sew denim?
Yes, it is possible to sew denim on a regular sewing machine, provided you use regular dress weight denim and avoid sewing multiple layers at once. However, a sturdy and expensive machine is necessary for proper sewing. A heavy-duty machine is essential for sewing thick denim layers, such as the hem of jeans at the seam.
When sewing with denim, it is important to understand your sewing machine and adjust the needle to the one used for thicket fabric. A walking foot or feed foot can also be helpful for home sewing. It is essential to change the needle to the one used for thicket fabric to ensure the best results.
In addition to these tips, consider adding accessories like a walking foot or feed foot to enhance the home sewing experience. By understanding and using the right sewing machine, you can create a successful and comfortable sewing experience with denim fabric.
Does thread size matter?
Thread size is crucial in coverings and enclosures as seam stress increases due to the enclosed area and tension caused by stretching materials over frames. To handle this stress, thread size needs to be increased. Polyester is a popular choice for sewing covers and enclosures, as it offers a variety of sizes and shapes to suit various needs. Small spools are available for $10, while cases save 10-20%. Polyester is also suitable for use in various projects, such as making curtains, furniture, and more. Nylon/poly partial spools are also available in half-price mixed black and white.
What thread tension should I use for denim?
The author shares tips for sewing denim, specifically using a straight-stitch length between 3. 0 mm and 4. 0 mm and increasing machine tension to 4. 6. They have recently started sewing a pair of Cashmerette Ames jeans using Repreve Stretch Denim in White, and are excited to share more tips for sewing with beefy fabrics like denim. The author will be sharing these tips on Facebook Live every Wednesday at 3:00 pm Mountain Time.
Most sewing machines are strong enough to sew through denim with the correct needle, stitch-length, and tension. However, small, entry-level machines may not be able to power through denim, but the tips provided in this blog post will help prepare for the journey.
What thread is best for jean embroidery?
The Poly Deco™ denim embroidery thread is a robust, colorfast, and lustrous option for denim embroidery. The 10 Grooviest assortment is appropriate for this design, and a color chart is recommended for 40 wt.
What kind of thread to fix jeans?
To ensure the longevity of your mended jeans, opt for sashiko thread for repairing them. Other threads may not be as comfortable or durable, and while repairing holes repeatedly creates a unique piece of clothing, it may not be the most economical option. Kogin thread is the most durable sashiko thread, but it’s important to remember that all sashiko thread is made to be very durable, not just the most durable one. Ultimately, the choice of thread should be based on the overall durability of the jeans.
What is the thread count for jeans?
It is recommended that the thread size used for the production of adult and children’s jeans be 180 and 130 meters, respectively. The thread type may be modified in accordance with the desired final quality. The requisite needle size is contingent upon the specified thread size. An application guide can be tailored to align with particular specifications. The following list provides an overview of the recommended stitch types.
What size thread for denim?
Previously, the most prevalent thread size utilized for topstitching denim was Tex 60, 80, or 105. However, a significant number of manufacturers have since transitioned to a Tex 120 thread size, which produces a more pronounced stitch appearance.
Do you need a special thread to sew denim?
To sew with denim, use all-purpose thread in your bobbin and use a 90/14 needle for lightweight and medium-weight denim and a 100/16 for heavyweight denim. Hold denim taut to prevent skipped stitches. Denim is a staple fabric in most closets and fabric stashes, available in various weights, washes, and colors. Sewing with denim is just as fun as wearing it, and it comes in a wide variety of colors and weights.
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Threads All purpose Thread Polyester Most commonly used Good for most sewing projects Button and craft Thread Thicker thread Used for blazers, Craft projects, Stronger buttons Embroidery Thread Thinner and shiny Used in machines to ideally make graphics Jean Thread For any denim project Thicker than all-purpose Best used on heavy duty sewing machine Ideal for a couple layers of stuff being held together Upholstery Thread Very thick Similar weight to denim thread Ideal for furniture Serger Thread All purpose thread Might need something to help feed through machine Just more all purpose thread Heavy duty Thread Good for industrial sewing machines Used in stuff like boat sails Thread Types Polyster Thread(All purpose) Has a little give to it Allows garments to move and stretch with you Cotton Thread Weaker than most threads Does not stretch Good for quilting delicates, or 100% cotton materials
Hi girl, I use to sew a lot. But I got mad because, my life style,change some much, but I was bless with a great talent. But knowing I could lose it .I did n’t see you and the thing you are doing. But I did go back. Right now, I sew by hand. I was taught by my mom. She gone now. But I love the fact that she taught me to sew. Now I have you to continue back on my journey. Thank you sooo so much for all you do. And thank you for showing me that I still have the talent to sew by hand or machine. Love your website. Mrs. Dee from Ga.
Thank you for the information. I’m looking for a replacement of the oil-wick thread used in old Hammond organs. You know, the old organs used in churches and rock shows. The moving parts are lubricated by oil wicking through a 4-strain cotton thread on the thicker side. Now I can go to the fabric store and ask for button, or jean thread, or V92 like I know what I’m talking about. 😁
Thank you for sharing this with us. I always wonder what thread to buy / use when sewing by machine or by hand. I usually purchase all purpose thread or whatever is on sale. I also love buying serger thread, especially in colors of black or white. They last longer than regular spools of thread and you get more for your money.
If I have to sew something by hand, I prefer to use cotton over polyester just because anchoring the polyester thread at the beginning and end takes a bit more stitching in order for me to feel confident that it’s not going to come out and unravel if I have to wash it. Polyester thread is thicker, so the knot at the end seemed like it’s not thick enough to keep it in place. I don’t know if that makes sense, but I’ve accidentally removed the first couple of hand stitches I’ve made in the past by just pulling enough to finish the stitch. It’s probably user error on my part, but I just prefer to use cotton thread to prevent it from coming apart at the beginning or having to make a lot of knots and anchoring stitches at the beginning and end of the line I’m sewing by hand.
I have been perusal you for a while. But I just got my brother se625. And I hate buying thread. Because I have read the manual. And in the manual it talks about weight of thread. And your article didn’t talk about that. But when I go into Jo-Ann’s fabric. I feel like they are swindling me into buying so much expensive stuff. Because my machine does both sewing and embroidering. I have to go to Jo-Ann’s fabric store. But my local Jo-Ann fabric store has a sewing section with the sewing specialist who doesn’t recommend the Joanne products. She only recommends her company product which is Vikings I think. So when I go into the store because I want some fabric for my projects such as sewing on jeans or buying a needle. I am leaving the store spending $50 on one big spool of thread, or one spool of embroidery thread expensive sewing needle for embroidery and sewing. And half the time the product is not the right product for my machine. And because I bought it from a specialist in Jo-Ann’s fabric store I can’t return it. Because Joanne is not the owner of the specialty sewing company in the store. And the people who work in Jo-Ann’s always refer you to the specialist in the store. I’m just so frustrated because I have this multifunctioning machine and all this expensive material that does not work with my machine. And I’m trying to buy the proper thread for the proper project but my needle will break or my thread would break. And then I try to look in the manual my manual doesn’t recommend thread by the name.
I just got a sewing machine & I’m having a very slow start lol. I was threading the bobbin & about to start the upper threading (everything’s so confusing) when I realized I purchased the wrong thread! I bought upholstery thread because I didn’t know any better & it was the only thread that matched the color of the stretchy fabric I was buying. So can I absolutely not use upholstery thread to make apparel? The thread fits thru the 90/14 needle just fine but I read that you should never use upholstery thread to sew clothing. I also realized I have to purchase a ball point needle because of my fabric choice. Like I said, very slow start. Hopefully I won’t spend 2hrs in Joanne’s again next visit😑 My Brother LX3817 says to never use a thread weighted 20 or lower & the thread I have is 15. It “may” cause the machine to malfunction. I was thinking of just trying it out anyway since I can’t return the thread now. Has anyone ever tried using upholstery thread for clothing on a lightweight sewing machine before?
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I have been sewing for over 40 years and since then the options in thread choices have overwhelmed me. However the correct choice in thread can make or break a project and discourage one from continue sewing if they are incorrect. You are such a great instructor. In addition to giving advice on thread how about one on needles which have also become numerous over the years. Also with the denim (or other heavyweights) sometimes you can get away with using a lighter weight bobbin thread with it. Practice practice practice.