The most common embroidery thread that you can buy in shops is six stranded embroidery floss. But you may also come across a type of thread called pearl or perle.
Pearl (or perle) thread is not stranded thread which means that you can’t separate out the strands to stitch with. You need to use the thread as it comes. It is therefore a much thicker thread and whilst you can use it for embroidery there are few things to bear in mind.
You’ll need a needle with a larger eye
Fewer stitches are needed to fill an area
It has a different texture and sheen to stranded floss
It’s great to couch with as it has a thicker texture
You need to use it for some styles of embroidery such as Hardanger or drawn thread embroidery (pictured above)
Enjoyed this blog post? I share embroidery tips and a free embroidery pattern in my monthly newsletter. Sign up here to receive the newsletter on the 1st of each the month.