If you like to embroider, you’ve likely noticed two common types of thread: perle cotton and DMC embroidery floss. Both are beloved by stitchers, but they have distinct characteristics that make them suited for different projects. Let’s dive into what sets them apart so you can choose the right one for your next embroidery masterpiece!
What is Perle Cotton?
Perle cotton (also called pearl cotton) is a twisted, non-divisible thread with a distinctive sheen. Unlike embroidery floss, which is made up of six strands that can be separated, perle cotton is designed to be used as is. It’s available in various weights, with lower numbers indicating thicker thread (e.g., size 3 is thicker than size 12).
Characteristics of Perle Cotton:
- Non-divisible – Comes as a single twisted strand that you don’t separate.
- Mercerized sheen – Has a beautiful, glossy finish that stands out in embroidery.
- Varied thicknesses – Available in sizes 3, 5, 8, and 12, with 8 and 12 being the most common for embroidery.
- Strong and durable – Holds up well for surface embroidery, crazy quilting, and even crochet.
These Perle Cottons have a gorgeous sheen and are fun to work with! You can find a great selection of Perle Cotton thread here!
What is DMC Embroidery Thread?
DMC embroidery floss, also known as stranded cotton, is the most widely used embroidery thread and comes in skeins of six separable strands. This allows for versatility, as you can use anywhere from one to six strands depending on the level of detail and coverage you want.
Characteristics of DMC Embroidery Thread:
- Divisible strands – Can be separated for different levels of thickness and texture.
- Smooth, soft finish – Has a slight sheen but is less glossy than perle cotton.
- Highly versatile – Perfect for cross-stitch, hand embroidery, and needlepoint.
- Hundreds of colors – Offers an extensive color range with precise dye lots for consistency.
DMC Thread comes in every color of the rainbow and beyond! You can find DMC Thread by clicking here!
How to Choose the Right Thread for Your Project
Now that you know the differences, how do you decide which to use? Here are a few guidelines:
- For detailed embroidery with varying textures – DMC embroidery floss is the way to go since you can adjust the number of strands for fine details or bold stitches.
- For bold, decorative stitches – Perle cotton’s thickness and sheen make it ideal for outline stitches, French knots, and textured designs.
- For cross-stitch – DMC embroidery floss is the standard choice because it works well on Aida cloth and even-weave fabrics.
- For crazy quilting or sashiko-style embroidery – Perle cotton’s durability and shine make it an excellent choice for decorative surface work.
Both perle cotton and DMC embroidery floss have their unique strengths, and choosing the right one depends on your project’s needs. If you want versatility and control over stitch thickness, DMC floss is your best bet. If you prefer a strong, lustrous thread that adds dimension, perle cotton is the way to go.
Do you have a favorite thread for your embroidery projects? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear what you’re stitching up!
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I use the #8 perle cotton to add a primitive look to hand quilting. It shows up more. I like to machine quilt in the ditch and then add some of this hand quilting.
I googled hand quilting because, sadly, the quilt stores don’t teach it anymore, and this was how a lady demonstrated it snd I liked the look!
Should you use a heavier fabric to embroider on using Perle cotton?
I would love to use the perle cotton on some of my quilt blocks. Does it shrink when being washed in the washing machine or put in the dryer??