The Complete Guide to Machine Quilting Threads

Learn how to choose the right quilting thread for piecing, appliqué, topstitching, and binding, with options in cotton, polyester, silk, metallic, and invisible threads.

Machine quilting is where artistry meets technique, and the thread you choose gives every stitch its voice. One of the first things to understand is thread weight, which simply refers to the thickness. You can explore this in detail in our educational article "How to Read Thread Labels". A summary of thread weight: 40 wt. threads are heavier (thicker) and create bold, visible stitches, making them excellent for quilting when you want to see the thread; 50 wt. threads are versatile for piecing quilt blocks together, thanks to their finer weight and feel, which keeps seams flat and precise; 60 wt. threads are even finer, making them perfect for blending stitches with EPP or for use in the bobbin; and 100 wt. or ultra-fine invisible threads all but disappear into the fabric and are popular for invisible appliqué and stitch-in-the-ditch quilting.

Different fiber types, such as cotton, nylon, polyester, and silk, bring their own character and traits to machine quilting. Cotton quilting threads are often associated with a soft, matte finish that blends beautifully into the fabric. Polyester quilting thread can mimic the texture of cotton, silk, and many other fibers and is often associated with being a stronger fiber and having low lint, which helps keep machines cleaner. Silk quilting thread is usually fine (thin) and glides effortlessly, leaving a smooth, refined stitch and design. Metallic quilting threads add a shimmering accent, showing bold, visible stitches. Invisible monofilament thread is an excellent choice when stitches need to be nearly invisible and blend thoroughly into the fabric. It's a fun experiment to try multiple fibers and thread weights to find what you like best. It's also dependent upon your goals for the finished quilt design. If you have busy fabrics or an intricate quilting design, a thread that blends may be what you want. You have the freedom to decide how blending or bold, visible or hidden, colorful or neutral your stitched designs will look in your quilt.

yli threads prewound bobbins 50 wt. cotton quilting thread

Cotton Prewound Bobbins

50 wt., Cotton, for Piecing, Quilting, and Sewing

Our Dream Seam prewound bobbins are the ideal choice for piecing and quilting. Made from the same 50 wt. Egyptian-grown extra-long staple cotton thread, found in Dream Seam cones and spools, is available in a 2-ply format to reduce bulk and lint. These prewound bobbins produce consistent stitches from start to finish. They are available in the two most popular bobbin sizes for home machines: Class 15 and L style. Additionally, our cotton prewound bobbins are wound with precision machinery, resulting in a tight, uniform wind that can hold up to 70% more thread than a self-wound bobbin. Dream Seam prewounds are offered in ten of our most popular neutral and primary colors.

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Dream Seam

50 wt., Cotton, for Piecing, Quilting, Bobbin, and Sewing

For piecing, our 50 wt. Dream Seam thread is a go-to favorite. Like its namesake, piecing with it is like a dream come true. It is made from 100% Egyptian-grown extra-long staple cotton that undergoes a uniquely tight primary and secondary twist. This makes it fine enough for flawless piecing, allowing it to lie perfectly between layers of fabric. Surprisingly strong for its fine diameter, Dream Seam is also an excellent quilting and sewing thread, easily handling the tension of longarm machines while maintaining balanced stitches. Dream Seam is designed to blend into the fabric, making it easier to press your quilt blocks for clean and precise points. Available on 2,000-yard cones, 600-yard spools, Class 15 and L-style prewound bobbins in eighteen colors.

Shop Dream Seam 50 wt. Cotton Thread

Elite

40 wt., Trilobal Polyester, for Machine Quilting and Embroidery

For quilters who love the beauty of bold, visible stitches in quilting and embroidery, our 40 wt. Elite Thread is a new favorite among both home quilters and longarm professionals. Elite is made from high-strength, high-sheen trilobal polyester, a uniquely three-sided fiber that reflects light to produce a luminous, silk-like sheen. This unique polyester structure enhances strength and is lint-free. For quilters and embroiderers who enjoy stitches that genuinely stand out, Elite transforms every stitch into a feature of the greater design. Available in 5,470-yard cones and 1,094-yard mini cones in 200 radiant colors. Elite is designed for machine quilting and embroidery applications when you want the thread to be an integral part of your quilt or embroidered design.

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Invisible Thread

Ultra-fine, Nylon and Polyester, for Applique and Machine Quilting

Our Invisible Threads collection features polyester and nylon monofilament threads designed to blend into your quilting and appliqué. Perfect for stitch-in-the-ditch and free-motion quilting, these ultra-fine, lint-free threads make your stitches almost invisible, keeping the focus on your fabric and design. Wonder Invisible Thread, our classic soft-finish nylon monofilament, is praised for its flexibility. Invisible Thread Poly, our matte-finish polyester, is slightly thicker than Wonder Invisible for enhanced strength and abrasion resistance. For the best results, loosen your machine's top tension.

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Majestic

40 wt., Cotton, for Machine Quilting

For machine quilting on both home and longarm machines, our 40 wt. Majestic thread is genuinely exceptional. Made from 100% Egyptian-grown extra-long staple cotton, Majestic comes in forty-five variegated colors with a one-inch color change interval, as well as five of the most popular neutral hues that quilters love as solid options. Bold and ready to enhance any quilt with eye-catching motifs, filigree, feathers, or edge-to-edge designs, Majestic produces minimal lint as you finish a quilt. A subtle sheen helps the thread stand out without overpowering the design and pattern of the backing fabric. Majestic is one of our premium cotton quilting threads, available in 2,000-yard cones and 600-yard spools in fifty colors.

Shop Majestic 40 wt. Cotton Thread

Metallic

Fine and Heavy Metallic for Machine Quilting

Our Metallic Threads offer both bold impact and refined detail in one collection. Heavy Metallic, our 18 wt thread, is engineered for longarm quilting and creates dramatic stitches that shimmer across quilt tops with strength and durability. Fine Metallic is one of the most versatile metallic threads available, ideal for embroidery, home machine quilting, and detailed accents. Both are precision-wound to reduce breakage and deliver consistent stitching when paired with the correct needle and bobbin thread. Use a Topstitch #90/14 needle and a smooth bobbin thread such as Precision or Perfection, and reduce your top tension to 1.0-2.0 for best results. Available in 1,000-yard and 500-yard mini cones in a range of radiant colors, Metallic Threads turn every project into a sparkling work of art.

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yli threads machine quilting thread spools 40 wt cotton quilting thread

Machine Quilting Thread (MQT)

40 wt., Cotton, for Machine Quilting

MQT is our original 40 wt. variegated cotton quilting thread. Made from 100% Egyptian-grown extra-long staple cotton, MQT holds a special place in many quilters' thread stashes as a favorite among cotton quilting threads. A variable three-inch color change interval creates unique color sequences when stitched onto quilts. MQT is one of our legacy products that will be gradually phased out in favor of Majestic. For quilters who have enjoyed stitching with MQT, we encourage you to try Majestic for bold, vibrant machine quilting. It is available in 3,000-yard cones and 500-yard cones in thirty colors.

Shop MQT 40 wt. Cotton Thread

Perfection

50 wt., Polyester, for Machine Quilting, Sewing, and Bobbin

Perfection is our 50 wt. polyester thread, designed for smooth, balanced stitching when piecing quilt blocks together, topstitching/quilting, and general sewing. Its low-lint, slightly textured surface helps the thread grip fabric gently, keeping seams flat and stitches uniform. This texture also reduces slippage on slick fabrics and helps maintain precise alignment during high-speed stitching or chain piecing. Quilters value how Perfection blends into fabric without distracting from the quilt design, especially on backings and neutral color palettes. Available in 64 soft, low-sheen colors on 3,000-yard cones and 20 colors on 500-yard spools, it's not too much, not too little; just Perfection.

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Precision

60 wt.,Lint-free Polyester, for Machine Quilting, Piecing, Sewing, and Bobbin

Precision is our 60 wt. polyester thread made from strands of continuous filament for a smooth, strong, and lint-free finish. Its fine (thin) size makes it ideal for detailed work such as appliqué, micro-quilting, stitch-in-the-ditch, English Paper Piecing, and binding. Because of its subtle presence, it pairs well with heavier top threads and reduces bulk in layered seams. Quilters choose Precision for its ability to blend into fabric, especially in neutral tones, and for its clean, consistent stitches at high speeds. Available in 25 soft, blendable colors on 3,000-yard cones and 1,420-yard spools,

Shop Precision 60 wt. Thread

Polyester Prewound Bobbins

60 wt., Cotton, for Piecing, Quilting, and Sewing

Our Precision prewound bobbins are a wise choice for quilters who love smooth stitching and subtle finishes. Made from the same ultra-fine, 60 wt. continuous filament polyester found in our Precision cones and spools, these bobbins deliver high strength without adding bulk. Their lint-free construction makes them ideal for detail work like appliqué, stitch-in-the-ditch, and English Paper Piecing. Each bobbin is tightly and evenly wound on precision machinery, holding up to 70% more thread than a self-wound bobbin so that you can quilt longer with fewer interruptions. Available in Class 15 and L style, Precision prewound bobbins come in 25 soft, blendable shades designed to disappear into your fabric while producing beautifully balanced stitches from start to finish.

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Silk #100

100 wt., Silk, for Appliqué, Binding, and Machine Quilting

Soft Touch is a lightweight 60 wt. 2-ply cotton thread designed for quilters who prefer cotton as their fiber of choice for appliqué and piecing. Made from 100% Egyptian-grown extra-long staple cotton, Soft Touch excels in detailed piecing and delicate appliqué, making it an excellent choice for bobbin thread. Its slim profile makes aligning points and achieving flat seams effortless. Soft Touch is one of our legacy products that will gradually be phased out in favor of Dream Seam. For quilters and sewists who have enjoyed using Soft Touch, we encourage you to try Dream Seam for flawless piecing.

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Soft Touch

60 wt., Cotton, for Piecing, Appliqué, and Bobbin

Shop Soft Touch 60 wt. Cotton Thread

Variations

40 wt., Trilobal Polyester, for Machine Quilting

Variations is our vibrant 40 wt. variegated thread made from high-sheen, high-strength trilobal polyester fibers. Each cone of Variations features lint-free, 2 to 3-inch color transitions that add dimension and style to your quilt, whether you're custom quilting motifs or quilting edge-to-edge. Available in 23 rich, contrasting, and blending variegated blends, these threads create natural shading and texture that make your quilt top shine. Each cone is wound with 2,188 yards of thread, plenty for quilts of all sizes. For best results, pair with Precision or Perfection in the bobbin and use a #90/14 topstitch on home machines or #18 (4.0) needle on longarm machines.

Shop Variations 40 wt. Thread

When it comes to machine quilting on a home sewing machine, most quilters agree that the application or technique plays a significant role in their choice of thread. For instance, when sewing or piecing quilt blocks together, a 50 wt. thread like Dream Seam or Perfection ensures flat seams and balanced stitches. For appliqué, using invisible thread or Silk #100 is ideal if you want your stitches to remain hidden or have a subtle appearance.

For topstitching or quilting, a variety of threads can be showcased depending on the desired effect. You might choose the high sheen of Elite, the bold presence of variegated Majestic, or the subtlety of Precision and Soft Touch. For finishing touches such as binding, Precision and Silk #100 are both very fine yet strong enough to ensure your stitches are secure and long-lasting.

Quilters love prewound bobbins for their convenience and consistency. Using high-quality prewound bobbins, such as our Dream Seam and Precision prewounds in Class 15 or L-style, saves you time, and you can count on smooth, balanced stitches with each bobbin. To achieve optimal results, it's essential to ensure proper tension. Our guide, "How to Achieve Perfectly Balanced Tension," offers practical tips for adjusting your sewing machine according to different fibers and weights.

Additionally, pairing your thread with the correct needle is essential for long-lasting results. We recommend using Topstitch Needles, which feature a large eye and a deep groove designed to protect threads from fraying and breakage. By combining the right thread weight, fiber, and needle, your quilting will be strong, smooth, and beautifully balanced.

Machine Quilting Applications & Techniques

Appliqué: A decorative stitching method where fabric shapes are layered onto a quilt top and stitched in place. Appliqué can be bold or invisible, depending on the thread and stitch design choice. Wonder Invisible Thread or Invisible Thread Poly (both are monofilament threads) are ideal when stitches need to blend in. Another option for nearly-invisible appliqué is our Silk #100.

Binding: This is the final step in finishing a quilt, where a folded fabric strip is wrapped around the outer edge to encase and protect the raw edges of the quilt top, batting, and backing. It not only gives the quilt a clean, polished shape but also adds durability to withstand years of use. The strip is typically a narrow band of fabric cut on the bias, allowing it to have stretch. It is then usually pressed in half and stitched to the quilt front, folded over to the back, and secured with a final seam. Choosing the right thread ensures those final stitches are both strong and subtle. Many quilters prefer Silk #100 or Precision for binding, thanks to their delicate, smooth finish and ability to glide through layers without adding bulk.

English Paper Piecing (EPP): A hand-piecing method where fabric is wrapped around paper templates and whip-stitched together. Threads need to be strong yet fine so they don’t add bulk. Precision 60 wt. polyester thread is well-loved for its blending qualities, lint-free and smooth feel, and suppleness that helps each stitch hold fast. For quilters who want a finer thread, Silk #100 is an excellent choice.

Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP): This technique utilizes a printed paper foundation to guide stitching. FPP typically includes intricate designs, precise angles, and fine detail. A smooth, tightly twisted 50 wt. thread is essential to keep seams flat. We recommend Dream Seam for quilters who prefer using cotton thread, and Perfection for those who prefer polyester threads. Both are premium-quality 50 wt. threads that help keep seams flat and stitches precise.

Invisible Appliqué: This technique mimics the delicate look of hand stitching using a home sewing machine without the time commitment. By using very-fine thread and carefully placed stitches, the appliqué pieces, which are shapes cut from fabric with or without a stabilizer, appear to float on the quilt surface, with little to no visible thread holding them in place. It’s a favorite method for quilters who want the elegance of hand appliqué but prefer the speed and precision of their machine. Threads like Silk #100 or ultra-fine monofilaments such as Wonder Invisible (nylon) and Invisible Poly (polyester) are ideal for this technique. Their fine, smooth structure allows stitches to blend into the fabric, keeping the appliqué in focus with clean edges and nearly invisible seams.

Piecing: The foundation of quilting, piecing refers to sewing sections of fabric together to form a quilt block. Seam bulk, which is when thread adds substantial height and heft at the seam, is the biggest challenge to avoid when piecing. Using a tightly twisted, smooth 50 wt. cotton thread, such as Dream Seam, ensures precise, flat seams. For quilters who prefer polyester, Perfection 50 wt. polyester thread delivers secure stitches and a low-lint finish.

Stitch-in-the-ditch: This is a popular quilting technique where you sew directly into the seam line—or “ditch”—between pieced blocks. Quilters often prefer to use this technique to secure the quilt layers without drawing attention to the stitches themselves, making it a favorite among both traditional and modern quilters who want clean lines without visual distraction. Also known as ditch quilting, this method is beneficial for outlining shapes or defining quilt blocks while keeping the thread nearly invisible. For the best results, many quilters opt for ultra-fine threads, such as Precision (60 wt.) or monofilaments like Wonder Invisible (nylon) or Invisible Poly (polyester). These threads nestle perfectly into the seam, allowing your fabric and piecing to take the spotlight while still delivering strength and structure with every stitch.

Topstitching (also known as quilting): This technique, as described in your sewing machine manual, is often referred to as "quilting" and involves stitching through all layers of your quilt sandwich to secure the top, batting, and backing together. It’s functional at heart, but for most quilters, it’s also where creativity shines. Whether you’re working on a quilt, jacket, or bag, topstitching is your opportunity to decide if your stitches should stand out or blend in.

For visible texture and a natural matte finish, Majestic 40 wt. cotton thread is a trusted favorite. If you want a high-sheen polyester thread with rich color, Elite and Variations, both 40 wt. trilobal polyester threads bring a beautiful luminosity to your design. For a softer, subtler effect, Precision 60 wt. lint-free polyester thread or Perfection 50 wt. polyester thread blends into the fabric while still securing each layer with care. There are endless choices when it comes to thread fiber, weight, and color. You have total creative freedom, and there's no wrong answer.

Popular Quilting Terms & Phrases

What does a 'gassed' thread mean?

Gassing is a process where cotton threads are quickly passed through a flame to remove excess fuzz. This reduces lint and creates a smoother finish, keeping your sewing machine and longarm machine cleaner with less lint buildup. Our cotton threads, including Dream Seam, Machine Quilting Threads, Majestic, and Soft Touch, are made from gassed (and mercerized) fibers.

It's a strange name, but it makes a big difference in the surface feel and texture of cotton threads.

Please explain what mercerizing means.

Mercerization is a finishing process applied to cotton threads where the thread is soaked in a solution that strengthens fibers, increases luster (sheen), and improves dye absorption. Mercerized cotton threads, such as Dream Seam and Majestic, appear smoother and hold color vibrantly.

Please clarify what 'Thread Weight' actually means.

Thread weight refers to the thickness or the property of how thick a thread is. The higher the number, the finer the thread (for example, a 50 wt. thread is finer/thinner than a 30 wt. thread).

Finer threads, such as 50 wt., blend into fabrics well and are popular to use when piecing your quilt blocks together. Their fine nature reduces bulk or presence at the seams. Heavier (thicker) weights like 40 wt. are more visible because they are thicker in diameter. These threads are often used for decorative topstitching when the thread is meant to be seen. For guidance, read our educational article all about How to Read Thread Labels.

What is the difference between a primary and secondary thread twist?

Threads are formed by twisting fibers together. The primary twist forms a single ply, while the secondary twist binds multiple plies into one evenly wound thread. Tight, consistent twists improve strength, durability, and seam smoothness.

Our threads are tightly twisted for improved strength and consistency.