Will Polyester Thread Shrink and Can I use it When Quilting?

When I first started quilting, I had so many questions, and one of the big ones was about thread.

Like will polyester thread shrink? Should I always use cotton thread? Is there a good blend that I should be looking for? If you’ve wondered about this too, especially with polyester thread, you’re in the right place.

Let’s keep things simple and hopefully by the end you’ll understand a little bit more about using this type of thread.

I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about polyester thread and whether it shrinks—spoiler alert: it doesn’t!

Let’s compare it with cotton thread so you can see the differences, especially when it comes to quilting.

And cover some common mistakes to avoid, answer a few FAQs, and by the end, you’ll have a good handle on which thread is right for your next quilting project.

What Is Polyester Thread?

Polyester thread is a synthetic thread, meaning it’s made from man-made fibers, not natural ones like cotton.

It’s popular because it’s super strong and doesn’t break easily, which is a big win when you’re quilting.

I like using it because it’s durable and can handle a lot of wear and tear, which is perfect for quilts that are meant to last.

Does Polyester Thread Shrink?

Here’s the good news: polyester thread does not shrink.

Unlike cotton thread, which might shrink a little, polyester stays the same size no matter how many times you wash your quilt.

So, if you’re worried about your stitches getting pulled tight after washing, you can relax—polyester thread keeps everything looking just like it did when you first made it.

When cotton thread shrinks after washing in a quilt, it can cause the stitches to pull in slightly, creating a charming, crinkled texture on the quilt’s surface.

This effect, often called a “vintage” or “antique” look, is loved by many quilters because it gives the quilt a cozy, well-loved appearance.

However, if not expected, this shrinkage can also make the stitching feel tighter, which might alter the overall size and feel of the quilt.

For those who want to avoid this choosing a non-shrinking option like polyester can help maintain the quilt’s original look.

Why This Matters

Knowing that polyester thread won’t shrink is a game-changer because it means your quilt will keep its shape after washing.

I remember worrying about my first quilt shrinking or warping, but with polyester thread, that’s not something you need to stress about.

Your stitches stay consistent, which is a big confidence booster when you’re starting out.

Tips for Using Polyester Thread

One thing I’ve learned is to adjust the tension on my sewing machine when using polyester thread since it can be a bit slick.

This helps keep the stitches nice and even. Also, even though polyester thread is great for most projects, I try to match it with the fabric I’m using.

For example, if I’m sewing with cotton fabric, I sometimes opt for cotton thread to keep things balanced.

Cotton Thread vs. Polyester Thread for Quilting

When it comes to quilting, the choice between cotton and polyester thread can make a difference in how your project turns out. Cotton thread is made from natural fibers, which gives it a soft, matte finish.

It’s a traditional choice for quilters who want their stitches to blend into the fabric, creating a seamless look.

Cotton thread also shrinks slightly when washed, which can give quilts that classic, crinkled look after washing.

On the other hand, polyester thread is a synthetic option known for its strength and durability.

It has a slight sheen to it, which can make your quilting stitches stand out a bit more. Polyester thread doesn’t shrink, so your stitches will stay the same size, keeping the quilt looking exactly as it did when you first finished it.

This makes it a great choice if you’re after consistency and longevity, especially for quilts that will be washed frequently.

In the end, the choice between cotton and polyester thread comes down to personal preference and the specific look or feel you want for your quilt.

Some quilters even mix the two depending on the project.

Will Polyester Thread Cut My Fabric?

Polyester thread is strong and durable, which is great for most quilting projects, but there is a potential downside to be aware of as your quilt ages.

Over time, especially if the fabric becomes older or brittle, the strength of polyester thread can actually work against it.

Because polyester is less likely to break or stretch, it can sometimes cause stress on the fabric, especially at the seams.

In extreme cases, this might lead to the thread cutting into the fabric, particularly if the fabric has weakened due to age, frequent washing, or exposure to sunlight.

That said, this isn’t a common problem for well-maintained quilts, but it’s something to consider if you’re working with delicate or vintage fabrics.

If you’re worried about this, using a slightly thinner polyester thread or opting for cotton thread, which has a bit more give, might help reduce the risk.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One mistake I made early on was not adjusting the tension on my sewing machine when using polyester thread.

Since polyester is slicker than cotton, it can cause loose or uneven stitches if the tension isn’t just right.

Another mistake is using the wrong needle size—polyester thread often works best with a slightly larger needle to avoid any snagging or breaking while quilting.

Lastly, it’s easy to forget to check your bobbin thread—using a different type or weight of thread in the bobbin can sometimes cause issues, so I always make sure to match it with my top thread whenever possible.

How to Store Your Thread

Storing your thread properly can help keep it in great condition for your quilting projects.

Here are some tips to ensure your thread stays nice:

1. Keep It Cool and Dry: Store thread in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and humidity can weaken the fibers and cause the thread to degrade over time.
2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can affect the quality of your thread. Try to keep it in a stable environment to prevent any damage.
3. Use Thread Containers: Keeping your thread in airtight containers or drawers can protect it from dust and light, which can lead to fading or deterioration.
4. Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid storing thread in a way that causes it to get crushed or tangled. Overcrowding can lead to kinks and twists that make the thread harder to use.
5. Keep Away from Chemicals: Store your thread away from cleaning supplies or chemicals that could potentially damage it.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Additional Quilting Resources:

• The best needle threader for hand quilting
• Paper piecing thread
• Aurifil Thread for machine quilting
• Matching bobbin color of thread to the binding
• Thread storage ideas for your sewing room

Get more information on all kinds of thread for quilting – taking the confusion out of all the different types.

---