"Essential" Thread Quality?

I've used quite a bit of it for both piecing and quilting. I haven't noticed any unusual shrinkage. I've only used the neutrals, but haven't had any bleeding problems with them, either.

Julia in MN

----------- This message has been scanned for viruses by Norton Anti-Virus

-----------

dogmom wrote:

Why mercerize? Short answer: to add luster Long answer:

I just used a natural color spool of Connecting Threads' Essential to piece a quilt top. My first visual impression was that it very much resembles the thread Alex Anderson endorses, in that it appeared to have a very high sheen (luster). The thread performed very well, no breakage and very little, if any, lint (I believe most of the lint in my bobbin area is from unwashed fabric). The only complaint I have is that once the cello wrapper is removed, there is no way to identify the thread as there are no markings whatsoever on the spool. I kept the wrapper and wrapped it around the spool when I was finished sewing with it because I may need that information at some later date. Mickie

I've used their thread for piecing and it works well.

I'm now using Thread Art thread.

I've been really happy with it. Happy quilting,

Lenore

I received 10 spools of the neutrals for Christmas, but haven't used it yet. I just went to check and agree that once the wrapper is removed, you really don't know what color, or size, thread you have! Hmmm!

I would just have to test it before I would use it. Stitch some scraps ( a couple of FQs ought to do it) together and toss them in the wash for a rough trip or two. Then you will know if it's going to bleed or shrink. You can always remove the stitching and return the FQs to their waiting areas. I don't know how obvious it would be with a quilt but I've seen some very nice garments that were lovely - until the stitching did some shrinking and every seam was a challenge to press. That's annoying. Polly

I had nothing but trouble with ThreadArt embroidery thread as have many people I know. It shredded on all the machines I have tried it on

- 2 Brother, 1 Babylock and a Bernina. Rather than tempt myself to use it, I gave it away. I now use Madeira Poly Neon for embroidery and decorative stitching.

L>I ordered a bunch of thread from thread art last spring and was very

Linda PATCHogue, NY

I got this off the Superior Threads web site:

"Mercerized. Today, nearly all cotton thread is mercerized. If a label says only 'mercerized cotton,' it is probably because there is nothing else to brag about (such as long staple or extra long staple). Mercerizing is a process of treating cotton thread with a solution, causing the fibers to swell. This process allows the dye to better penetrate the fibers, thereby increasing the luster. Today, all quality cotton thread is mercerized even if the label does not say so. Labels can advertise only a limited amount of information and stating that the cotton is mercerized is no longer most important."

So it sounds like it has nothing to do with bleeding or shrinkage....

Allison

And this is how Connecting Threads describes their thread: "· Satin Finish-Double Mercerized for a stronger, more lustrous finish · 100% Egyptian cotton, the highest quality cotton available · Extra long staple produces a smoother thread with less lint · 1200 yards! Size 50/3 · Fits standard sewing machine spindles."

Julia in MN

----------- This message has been scanned for viruses by Norton Anti-Virus

-----------

allis>> I just got 11 spools of thread from Connecting Threads--it's their