Think of thread weight like a seesaw: higher numbers mean finer (thinner) threads, lower numbers mean heavier (thicker) threads. Use 50 wt. thread (like Dream Seam or Perfection) for piecing because it's strong but fine enough to reduce bulk at intersections. Use 40 wt. thread (like Majestic or Elite) for quilting when you want stitches to show. Use 60 wt. thread (like Precision or Soft Touch) for delicate fabrics or when you want stitches to disappear. Match the weight to how much you want your thread to show.

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Cotton threads (such as Dream Seam and Majestic) have a matte finish and, being made from cotton, will still shed some lint, even though they are made from Egyptian-grown extra-long staple cotton. There are many types of polyester threads, including filament (Precision and Perfection), trilobal polyester (Elite), and poly-wrapped poly core (QuiltMaker). Both fiber types are well-suited for quilts and sewn projects. Many quilters use both, depending on the project and the look they want for their stitching.

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Absolutely! Many of our threads are versatile workhorses. Perfection works beautifully for piecing, quilting, sewing, and serging. Dream Seam is excellent for both piecing and quilting. Silk #100 is perfect for applique, binding, and delicate hand sewing. That said, some threads are specialized: Woolly Nylon is designed specifically for sergers. Threads are meant to be used, and with so many options, we encourage you to try many collections and find what you like best.

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Using the right needle improves your thread's performance. As a general rule, match needle size to thread weight. Finer threads require smaller needles; heavier threads require larger needles. Always use a fresh needle (change every 8-10 hours of sewing, or sooner if you notice an increase in skipped stitches).

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Lint comes from short cotton fibers that shed during sewing. To reduce lint: (1) Use high-quality, low-lint cotton threads like Dream Seam or Majestic (extra-long staple cotton that's mercerized and gassed). (2) Switch to lint-free polyester threads like Perfection, Elite, or Precision for zero lint. (3) Clean your bobbin case and feed dogs before starting a project. (4) Use a fresh needle (dull needles shred thread, creating more lint). Many quilters keep both cotton and polyester threads on hand, switching between projects (or even using multiple fibers on the same quilt).

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