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Invisible Thread
By Serena Nabeta | May 11, 2006
What is “invisible” thread? When and how would I use it? What are the benefits and disadvantages?
Also known as monofilament, this thread is a thin strand of nylon or polyester, either clear or “smoke” colored. It is used when you want your stitches to disappear into the fabric. Popular applications include quilting, blind stitch appliqué and hemming drapes. It is also used in the needle when stitching Bernina’s hand-look quilt stitch.
Monofilament thread can be used in both the needle and the bobbin. If you are free-motion quilting and want to use a color to match the bottom fabric in the bobbin, that’s fine also. If your machine has a “hand-look” quilting stitch, you’ll want to use monofilament in the needle and a color in cotton or long staple polyester in the bobbin. This stitch gives your projects and machine stitch that looks like hand quilting. If you haven’t tried using this feature, you should give it a try and see what neat result you can accomplish!
When using monofilament thread, put the felt pad on your vertical spool holder before putting the thread on the holder. Pull the thread from the spool before threading the machine to be sure it feeds smoothly and evenly and there are no rough spots on the spool that restrict the thread. The size and type of needle should be compatible with the size and type of thread and with the fabric.
Monofilament thread is a little tougher to stitch because of its texture. It tends to curl easier than cotton or polyester. It is also more difficult to thread the needle eye because of its clear color! :)
But, oh, the great things that can be stitched with this clear thread make it invaluable! I use it in the needle for stitching in the ditch on many of my quilts, hand or machine invisible applique and handwork such as sewing on beads or sequins! It’s great because the thread is hidden and so are your mistakes!
Here’s a tip for using monofilament thread for handwork. Cut off a length of thread and run it under a warm iron. The thread will straighten, making it easer to thread the needle and stitch. Be careful not to leave the thread under the iron or it will melt, it just needs a little heat to take out the curl. :)
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