2.18.2009

Ode to Thread


So ... I was teaching a class the other day when one of my students asked me, "Does it actually matter what thread you use?" As I gasped and sputtered to answer her, I came to the stark realization that I had ... indeed ... become a "thread snob".

The truth is ... I am not a hyper-obsessed person when it comes to name brands. Let's be honest, if I was then the words Marshalls and Target would not be such common fodder around here. And until about 5.5 years ago, I was still dipping into my bag o'threads that I inherited from my mother that included some that were from the 60's, I am sure. But in the fall of 2003, I was introduced to designer threads + the chance to purchase such snobbery at a discount. And now ... with a 17 year supply of threads on my wall ... there is no going back, discount or no discount.

Most of my threads come in three varieties. For all of my piecing, hand applique, bindings and most of my quilting I use Aurifil thread, seen here with the orange stems. Aurifil is a 50 wt thread but it is only 2-ply. It "hides" itself in the seams or on the hand stitches. All of my piecing is done with this variegated gray seen below. (#4060. I have that memorized. That's probably not a good sign.)

Since I own an embroidery machine, I have a lot of 60 wt nylon thread on hand ... in every color imaginable. Most of it is Isacord, but I'm not as picky on the brand on that ... just on the colors. I do most of my machine applique with it, if shiny is the look I'm going for. If nubby is what I want, then I turn to King Tut. His Royal Highness is a 40 wt thread (heavier) and comes in both varigated and solids. I do most of my machine quilting with the Aurifil, but have been known to go with shiny or nubby as the style dictates.

So there you have it. Now you have seen my snobby side. I promise to like you no matter what. Please keep that in mind. But do tell ...

What are your threads of preference? And, just to make me feel better ... what makes you all snobby?
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7 comments:

Tara said...

You are really a secreet snob...noone would really know the thread you used except you and you know it's the best! Bravo!

PamKittyMorning said...

I'm a thread snob as well. Love the Superior threads and I'm with you on the embroidery stuff. I also love my extra fine quilt pins from clover and the microtex needles from schmetz.

Jodi Nelson said...

I have NO clue about thread. I need to learn. I'm so frugal I'm using thread from 20 years ago, and won't buy new, until it's gone. Maybe it's time to rethink this. I would have to say I'm kinda snobby about brands on certain kinds of food. ;o)

sara said...

I have to buy Tropicana orange juice and Tide laundry detergent. Any other brand or off-brand simply will not do!

P Daddy said...

It could have been worse. It could have been fly fishing. So much harder to give imitation insects to your grandchildren.

P Daddy said...

Oh, and I have to have brand name condiments, jeans (but classic brands, not designer ones) and sporting goods. Generic won't do.

brookegfunk said...

I am a snob for ice cream full fat full flavor Haagen Daz for just me and the Hubz and for a crowd delicious Breyers .If I feel the need to chew my ice cream then Ben and Jerry's - gelato if I need a fix out and about. I have thought about this way to much!