Use the Right Thread

posted by kathy on Thu 19 Jun 2008

To get my art quilts to look “alive”, I need to create the illusion of movement and depth. Think about it, when you look at a flower, the flower isn’t a flat single color. Instead, the flower is made up of subtle tones and shades of the color with small splashes of other colors.

To get this illusion of movement and depth, I almost always use variegated threads. Variegated threads allow me to use the variations in the thread to trick the eye. A painter achieves this same look by not mixing his paint colors together completely.

One of my favorite threads to use are the Sulky Blendables Thread (30 wt). I like them because the transitions in color are a lot more natural than many other variegated threads. I have only been able to find them in specialty stores, and even those stores don’t carry all the variations. I now order them directly from the Create for Less or Joann Fabrics websites online.

These threads come in two weights.

• 30 Weight: this thread is slightly thicker than your normal sewing thread. For art quilting, this weight is great for overall thread work on your piece. The thread will create texture and look beautiful.
• 
  12 Weight: this thread is very thick and requires a needle with a slightly larger hole. I use this thread to create a “pop” when I want to emphasize an area.

Joann.com often offers a discount if you buy several spools and their price is often lower than the local specialty stores. Give this thread a try, you will love it!