In the world of embroidery, variegated thread has a special place in my heart! I have always loved finding new colour ways and finding a use for them in my next embroidery project. I just love the way the colours change as you stitch and the effect it has on the embroidery and how it can bring the piece to life with the variety of colours.
What is Variegated thread?
Variegated thread is a type of thread that is dyed with multiple colours that change gradually along the length of the thread. This creates beautiful variation in tone, sometimes subtle and sometimes vibrant, depending on colours and brand used. The thread can range from smooth transition of shades in the same colour family, such as light to dark blue. To more contrasting, vibrant colour changes, like a rainbow effect thread.
These threads are available in various materials like cotton, polyester, rayon, or even silk, and each type offers a different texture and sheen, giving crafters the freedom to experiment.
Why use variegated thread?
- Enhances simple designs: Even the simplest design can appear more artistic with variegated thread. Take the sunflower embroidery above, I created this for a video about thread types and weights. But it is mainly all back stitch, but all of the threads that I used were variegated. Which I feel significantly enhances the design.
- Time saver: Using variegated thread means you dont have to be constantly changing your thread to create a multi colour effect. The colour blending is done for you and creates a unique look.
- Adds Depth and Interest: Whether you're quilting, doing machine embroidery, or stitching by hand, variegated thread instantly elevates the look of your work. As the colours shift and blend naturally, your stitches become more dynamic, adding depth without the need to constantly switch thread colours.
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Choosing your colours: If you want to use only a specific part of your thread, say with certain colours in, this is easy to do too. Cut out the length of thread that has the colours you want to use in it. Then place a knot at the end where you want the first colour to appear, that way when you start to stitch your colours will be what you desire.
My favourite brands:
I am always find new and amazing thread colours and brands, some are my favourites are Stef Francis, which I sometimes use in my kits, I just love there colour palettes and variety of weight that are available.
https://www.stef-francis.co.uk/shop/
Oliver Twist, these also have amazing thread colour palettes and so much to choose from! a definite go to for experimenting with creative threads.
https://www.olivertwists.co.uk/shop
Japan Crafts - Fujix 'Soie et' 100% Silk Embroidery Thread
This is a new discovery for me, but the quality of this thread is divine and again so many different colour combos. The thread chart for this collection is extremely beautifully done!
https://www.japancrafts.co.uk/store/c144/Fujix_%27Soie_et%27_100%25_Silk_Embroidery_Thread.html#/
and of course DMC variegated thread.
There are lots of different types of variegated threads from DMC, and there threads are really good for using on stick and stitch patches, as the colours do not run. Some hand dyed threads can run when placed under warm water. So beware of this and always test a small area first.
https://www.dmc.com/GB/en-GB/threads-yarns/dmc-all-embroidery-threads
There are so many more I could tell you about be these are the ones I use the most! If you have any you want to tell me about please let me know I am always on the hunt to find new thread brands!!
Happy stitching and let me know if you discover a new love of variegated threads!