When it comes to sewing, choosing between cotton and polyester thread can be crucial to how durable your stitching will be. But which sewing thread is actually the strongest and when should you choose one over the other?
Cotton thread – soft and supple
Cotton thread is made from natural fibers and is soft to sew with. It is best suited for thin fabrics and garments where you want a natural feel in the seam. However, cotton thread is not as strong as polyester and can withstand less stress.
Polyester thread – strong and durable
Polyester thread is synthetic and significantly stronger than cotton. It is elastic, washable, and can withstand more stress without breaking. For most sewing projects, polyester thread is the safest choice.
Extra strong polyester thread for heavy-duty projects
When you sew in heavier materials, such as jeans, bags or upholstery fabrics, you need a thread that can handle more. Gütermann Extra Strong is a polyester thread developed for such projects. It can withstand high pressure and abrasion without any problems.
Tips when choosing thread
- For thin fabrics: choose cotton thread for a natural feel
- For most garments: standard polyester thread works great
- For heavy fabrics: choose Gütermann Extra Strong
- Always have a couple of different colors at home to match your fabrics perfectly
At Knappnålen you will find all types of sewing threads, from cotton thread to Gütermann Extra Stark , so you can choose the right thread for every project.
Frequently asked questions
Is polyester thread always stronger than cotton?
Yes, polyester thread is stronger and more elastic, making it more durable in most projects.
When is cotton thread better?
When sewing thin or delicate fabrics where you want a softer and more natural seam.
Where can I buy good sewing thread?
At Knappnålen, you can find cotton thread, polyester thread and Gütermann Extra Stark in many colors and thicknesses.
