Thread Question

[Cameron1138]

So, for my next couple of sewing projects, I'm making some coats that I want to be able to use as part of my everyday wardrobe in addition to for cosplay. Therefore, I have to make them as sturdy and long-lasting as possible. This is making me wonder about thread choice. I had been using Coats & Clark Dual Duty, which is made of polyester covered polyester. The owner of the local shop where I got my new sewing machine said that that sort of thread is crap and that I shouldn't use it, although he didn't say why. However, I've also sometimes used a heavier thread by C&C (I believe it's ccalled All Purpose or something) made of mercerized cotton. Which is more reliable and sturdy in the long run, polyester thread or heavier cotton thread?

Edit: If the fabric type is relevant, the first coat I'm making will be made of 100% wool with 100% polyester lining, and the second coat I'm making will be made of 100% polyester faux suede and polyester lining.

 

[CynicalMormon]

Not sure what his beef with Coats & Clark is but I know the Dual Duty XP line is probably your best bet. Other options are a heavy duty nylon thread which can be used for sewing anything that requires strength and durability. Here's a site I stumbled upon awhile back when I was looking into threads for a project: Polyester Thread Info

 

[Cameron1138]

Thanks. I did some research online and found similar info elsewhere, saying that polyester thread should be sturdier than cotton thread.

 

[CynicalMormon]

Thanks. I did some research online and found similar info elsewhere, saying that polyester thread should be sturdier than cotton thread.

No problem. Yeah, I think as long as you stick with the Dual Duty XP line you're good. I'm sure there are more expensive threads in the same category but from what I've seen C&C should be fine. The only differences I could find between the nylon and polyester was the way it reacts to bleach, sun, etc.

 

[MaulWalker]

Yes, polyester thread is studier than cotton thread. Eventually, cotton rots over time - I would only recommend cotton thread if you are doing heirloom sewing, or recreating a historical garment where cotton thread would have been used. Polyester thread will outlast the wool.

MaulWalker - sewing for almost 50 years.