You can create embroidery with any threads that you have available, here are five that I’ve used in many different embroidery projects.

Embroidery Floss

This is what is classically used for embroidery. Each skein of floss has six strands of embroidery which can be separated out and stitched with separately or in multiple number of strands.

Perle Cotton

This is also designed for embroidery and is used in certain styles of embroidery such as Hardanger. The cotton is formed of multiple strands twisted together to form the thread that you stitch with. Unlike floss, you don’t separate the strands so this tends to be thicker.

Sewing Thread

I’ve built up a collection of sewing cotton over the years from past dressmaking and other sewing projects. Sewing thread can be used for hand embroidery and much like floss you can use multiple strands together to give the necessary bulk. There are also specific types of thread for use in machine embroidery.

Metallic Thread

There are metallic embroidery flosses available for hand embroidery as well as metallic sewing threads that can also be used. Beware though, stitching with metallic thread is tricky - read more here.

Yarn

Modern embroidery can make use of all kinds of thread including yarn of different thicknesses.

Working with yarn is great for larger pieces as it is thicker and fills up areas much faster!

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