Do you oversee a production facility manufacturing heavy-duty clothing or sewn products made from industrial fabrics? Maybe you have an in-home industrial sewing machine that you use for upholstery work or to sew thicker materials like canvas, denim, and leather? Whatever the reason that gets you in front of an industrial sewing machine, you need to be sure to choose the right types of industrial threads for your intended end products.
What to Consider
Before you start tapping your calculator figuring out the quantity of spools to buy or if you can get the colors you want, think first about what you plan to construct.
Projects like tarps, car covers, and marine applications that will be exposed to the elements will require threads that can withstand water, salt air, wind, and UV rays. Such threads should be mildew-resistant as well. If, on the other hand, you’re considering an indoor upholstery project, you’ll still want the threads to be extra strong and durable. Do you feel a non-industrial thread will reasonably satisfy your needs? If you’re working in a mass production facility where the sewing machines are operating for long hours of the day, will the threads you choose be able to handle high-speed machines and volume loads?
If you have a reasonable understanding of your basic project needs, a respected supplier of high-quality threads and notions can provide invaluable recommendations for any project you have, large or small.
Tex Measurement System
If you’ve ever shopped for industrial thread, you may be familiar with the Tex measurement system which denotes the size of thread based on its weight and thickness. Basically, the higher the Tex number, the thicker, heavier, and coarser it is. The Tex number is also an indicator as to whether you need an industrial sewing machine and associated heavy-duty needles. In general, threads labeled with a Tex number of 207 or higher are considered industrial threads. When it comes to industrial applications, you especially need something durable. Industrial threads are valued less for their aesthetic qualities than they are for their tensile strength, tenacity, and for their loop and knot strength.
Best Thread Types and Finishes for Industrial Applications
Nylon fibers are commonly chosen for industrial applications because of their strength and durability. Often they are coated or bonded with a special finish that makes them stronger and better able to endure the intense needle friction that comes with high-powered, extremely fast industrial sewing machines. In some cases, they may also be lubricated. Bonded, lubricated thread helps prevent threads from raveling and allows for a smoother sewing experience.
Some industrial threads may also be finished with an anti-wicking material to prevent water absorption. Such thread types are especially useful for outdoor applications.
PTFE and Nylon Threads
When working with industrial fabrics, there are many factors to consider when choosing the appropriate type of thread. In general, however, PTFE and nylon threads tend to be the go-to choice. If yours is a marine application, a bonded, polyester PTFE-type thread should work best. You may also want a thread that has been treated with an anti-wicking solution to ward against water retention.
Moisture and UV-resistant bonded nylon thread is generally a good choice for vinyl and canvas applications. But it isn’t just chosen for outdoor uses. Bonded nylon thread is an excellent choice for upholstery projects particularly because of its elasticity and high tensile strength. It is also often the thread of choice for automotive applications.