Separate the strands

Continuing with the theme of thread preparation, I'd like to mention the benefits of separating individual strands from the floss. It is natural when you embroider with a single strand of thread on your needle. But sometimes, you might want to use 2 or 3, or all 6 strands of floss in your embroidery. In this case, separate them first individually and only then bring them back together. Even better – turn some of them upside down.

For example, you need to have 2 strands of floss in your needle. You cut the thread in your perfect length (see the previous point) and now, separate all 6 strands, take two of them and match them in such a way, that the end of one strand would be next to the opposite end of the other strand.

What does it give? After being stored next to each other continuously, the 6 strands become “united” and twist and move in the same way and direction. When you separate them and turn them upside down, they become more independent and the possibility of them tangling together becomes lower.

What is thread conditioner?

To use a thread conditioner, you have to run the thread along with the thread conditioner by holding your thumb against it to coat the thread lightly. Afterward, you need to pull the thread between your thumb and finger to smooth it and remove any static.

The thread conditioner lessens tangling and protects your thread as you embroider, with the repeated pushing and pulling of threads on the fabric. It is best to use when working with metallic threads, which are quite delicate when you repeatedly pull through the material. Thread conditioners are also good to use on satin and rayon embroidery threads before stitching.

Related:

• Steps to sew kevlar properly
• Steps to fix a tear on a shirt without having to sew
• Steps to wash an acrylic blanket

How Many Strands Of Embroidery Floss Should You Use?

The number of strands of embroidery floss you should use depends on the desired effect, fabric type, and your personal preference.

Here are the necessary options:

Single Strand:

Using a single strand of embroidery floss creates delicate and fine details. It’s ideal for intricate designs, fine lettering, or when you want a subtle, understated appearance.

Two Strands:

Doubling up with two strands adds slightly more coverage and boldness to your stitches. It’s a versatile choice for most embroidery projects and provides a balanced combination of coverage and detail.

Three Strands:

Using three strands offers even more coverage and is suitable for medium-sized designs and lettering. It strikes a balance between detail and boldness, making it a common choice for various projects.

Four Strands:

Four strands provide substantial coverage, making them suitable for larger designs, filling areas, and creating bolder outlines. This strand count adds depth and texture to your embroidery.

Six Strands:

Using all six strands of a standard embroidery floss skein offers maximum coverage and boldness. It’s commonly used for large designs, appliqué, or when you want a prominent and textured appearance.

Variegated Floss:

Variegated floss is pre-dyed with color changes along its length. The number of strands used varies depending on the desired color transitions. Experiment with different strand counts to achieve your preferred effect.

Blending Colors:

For unique color blending effects, you can mix different strand counts and colors together. This technique allows you to create custom shades and textures within your embroidery work.

When choosing the number of strands for your embroidery project, consider the fabric’s thread count (higher counts may require fewer strands), the complexity of the design, and the effect you wish to achieve.

It’s often a good idea to experiment with a small test piece before starting your main project to ensure you’re happy with the chosen strand count and appearance.

Deal with the skein the right way

As DMC cotton floss is the most widespread thread choice across the whole world, let's take a look how to deal it the right way . There is a little secret to releasing the thread from a DMC floss skein effortlessly without creating a mess out of it. You need to find a tail at the end of the skein that has the long number tag (see the picture above).

If you pull it gently, the thread won't kink up and you can safely organize it the way you want. As you releasing the thread the skein doesn't deform so you won't have to deal with a nest of thread.

Releasing the thread in this painless way is quite important because when it tangles in knots it wears the thread down and it sort of “memorizes” this knotted position.

After you released the thread from the skein you can either wind it round bobbins or use any other way of storage. Actually, having thread hanging is one of the best ways to store it, as it loses the “waviness” it acquires while being in the skein and straightens up.