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10 Best Quilting Threads 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Christa Quilts Piece and Quilt Neutrals Aurifil Thread Kit 12 Large Spools 50 Weight CW50PQN12, Assorted, 12 count (pack of 1)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,344
Thread Weight
Thread Finish
Thread Color

Most important from
262 reviews

Thread Weight
The 12-spool grouping of Aurifil 50/2 weight, made in Italy, offers a wonderful color selection at a very good price.
Thread Finish
Lint is minimal, which is a significant benefit when using quality thread and fabric.
Thread Color
This bundle includes more than just basic white, grey, and black – it features a range of neutrals that are versatile for various quilting needs.
Thread Strength
Breakage is minimal if it happens at all, provided you use the correct needle and maintain your machine properly.

The Christa Quilts Piece and Quilt Neutrals Aurifil Thread Kit is a high-quality option for quilters. The kit includes 12 large spools of 50-weight thread, which is versatile and suitable for both piecing and quilting. Being 100% cotton, the thread offers a natural feel and premium quality, which is essential for quilt shop quality projects.

The assortment of neutral colors provides a good range for various quilting needs without being too overwhelming. Additionally, Aurifil is a respected brand in the quilting community, adding to the product’s credibility. Users have rated it highly, indicating satisfaction with the product's performance, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 251 reviews. The thread is also machine washable, which is a practical feature for maintaining quilts.

However, some potential drawbacks include the relatively high cost associated with premium quality threads and the fact that the color range is limited to neutrals, which might not suit all creative needs. Despite these minor issues, this thread kit is a reliable choice for quilters seeking durable and high-quality cotton thread.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,344
Thread Weight
Thread Finish
Thread Color

Most important from
262 reviews

Thread Weight
The 12-spool grouping of Aurifil 50/2 weight, made in Italy, offers a wonderful color selection at a very good price.
Thread Finish
Lint is minimal, which is a significant benefit when using quality thread and fabric.
Thread Color
This bundle includes more than just basic white, grey, and black – it features a range of neutrals that are versatile for various quilting needs.
Thread Strength
Breakage is minimal if it happens at all, provided you use the correct needle and maintain your machine properly.
#2

Aurifil Cotton Mako 50wt 1300m 2-Pack: White (2X 2024)

Rating
9.4
Thread Fiber
Thread Finish
Thread Color

Most important from
2208 reviews

Thread Fiber
This cotton thread produces minimal lint buildup, keeping sewing machines cleaner during extended use.
Thread Finish
No feathering occurs, ensuring clean, precise stitches whether matching seams or hand sewing quilt bindings.
Thread Color
The dove color offers a perfect neutral tone that blends well with a wide range of fabrics and projects.
Thread Strength
The thread glides smoothly through machines without breaking or knotting, delivering beautiful stitch definition every time.

The Aurifil Cotton Mako 50wt thread is a popular choice for quilting and sewing projects, especially for those who want reliable, versatile thread. Made of 100% cotton and weighing 50wt, it strikes a good balance between strength and a fine finish, making it suitable for hand applique, machine quilting, and embroidery. With a smooth finish and strong fiber, it holds up well during stitching without easily breaking, which is important for delicate or detailed work.

This two-pack offers 1300 meters of white thread, a classic color that works well with many fabrics. Since it’s made in Italy, the quality tends to be consistent and trusted by many quilters. It’s 100% cotton, so while it’s great for traditional quilting, it may not have the stretch or sheen of polyester threads some might prefer for specific projects. Still, the thread washes well and maintains its color, which is helpful for long-lasting quilts.

This thread serves as an excellent pick for those seeking dependable, high-quality cotton thread suitable for a variety of quilting techniques.

Rating
9.4
Thread Fiber
Thread Finish
Thread Color

Most important from
2208 reviews

Thread Fiber
This cotton thread produces minimal lint buildup, keeping sewing machines cleaner during extended use.
Thread Finish
No feathering occurs, ensuring clean, precise stitches whether matching seams or hand sewing quilt bindings.
Thread Color
The dove color offers a perfect neutral tone that blends well with a wide range of fabrics and projects.
Thread Strength
The thread glides smoothly through machines without breaking or knotting, delivering beautiful stitch definition every time.
#3

Aurifil Mako 50wt Thread 2 Large Spools: Dove 2600 Color

Rating
8.5
Thread Finish
Thread Color

Most important from
2208 reviews

Thread Finish
Best thread on the market. No dust, no shredding, and strong.
Thread Color
Color of thread is universal.

The Aurifil Mako 50wt Thread in Dove 2600 is a great choice for quilters looking for quality and versatility. With its 100% cotton fiber, this thread is soft and smooth, making it ideal for various quilting applications, including hand and machine piecing, machine embroidery, and long arm quilting. The 50wt thickness provides a fine finish, allowing your stitches to blend seamlessly into your fabric, which is especially beneficial for detailed projects. The bundle includes two large spools, each containing 1422 yards, ensuring that you'll have plenty of thread for multiple projects without needing frequent replacements.

One of the standout features is the high customer satisfaction, indicating that many users appreciate its performance. Made in Italy, this thread carries a reputation for quality, which is a significant reason why it ranks well in the sewing thread category.

On the downside, because this thread is specifically 50wt, it may not be suitable for every project, particularly those requiring thicker threads for stronger seams or decorative stitching. Also, the color variation may be limited to what’s included in the bundle, which means you might need to look elsewhere if you need a wider color palette for different projects. Lastly, while it’s machine washable, some users prefer threads that have additional finishes to enhance durability, which this product lacks.

Rating
8.5
Thread Finish
Thread Color

Most important from
2208 reviews

Thread Finish
Best thread on the market. No dust, no shredding, and strong.
Thread Color
Color of thread is universal.

Buying Guide for the Best Quilting Threads

Choosing the right quilting thread is essential for creating beautiful and durable quilts. The thread you select can affect the appearance, strength, and longevity of your quilt. When picking a quilting thread, consider the type of fabric you are using, the desired look of your quilt, and the specific needs of your project. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Thread WeightThread weight refers to the thickness of the thread. It is important because it affects the visibility and texture of the stitches. Thread weight is usually measured in numbers, with lower numbers indicating thicker threads and higher numbers indicating thinner threads. For example, a 30-weight thread is thicker than a 50-weight thread. If you want your stitches to stand out, choose a thicker thread (lower weight). For a more subtle look, go with a thinner thread (higher weight). Consider the fabric weight and the desired effect when selecting the thread weight.
Thread FiberThread fiber refers to the material the thread is made from. Common fibers include cotton, polyester, and silk. Cotton threads are soft and have a matte finish, making them ideal for traditional quilting. Polyester threads are strong, have a slight sheen, and are less likely to break, making them suitable for both hand and machine quilting. Silk threads are smooth and shiny, perfect for delicate or high-end projects. Choose the fiber based on the fabric you are using and the desired finish of your quilt.
Thread FinishThread finish refers to the surface treatment of the thread, which can affect its appearance and performance. Common finishes include mercerized, glazed, and bonded. Mercerized threads have a smooth, shiny finish and are stronger, making them ideal for quilting. Glazed threads have a waxy coating that reduces friction and prevents tangling, suitable for hand quilting. Bonded threads have a coating that makes them extra strong and resistant to abrasion, perfect for heavy-duty projects. Consider the type of quilting you will be doing and the desired look when choosing the thread finish.
Thread ColorThread color is important for the overall appearance of your quilt. You can choose a thread color that matches your fabric for a seamless look or a contrasting color to make your stitches stand out. Neutral colors like white, beige, and gray are versatile and blend well with most fabrics. Bright and bold colors can add a pop of interest to your quilt. Consider the color scheme of your quilt and the effect you want to achieve when selecting the thread color.
Thread StrengthThread strength refers to how much tension the thread can withstand before breaking. It is important for the durability of your quilt, especially if it will be used frequently or washed often. Strong threads are less likely to break during quilting and will hold up better over time. Polyester and bonded threads are generally stronger than cotton threads. Consider the intended use of your quilt and choose a thread with the appropriate strength to ensure it lasts.

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