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How to Choose Quilting Thread: A Beginner-to-Confident Guide
How to Choose Quilting Thread (and Why Aurifil Is the Best Choice)
Choosing the right quilting thread might not feel as exciting as picking fabric—but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make for the success of your project. The right thread affects stitch quality, durability, appearance, and even how smoothly your machine runs.
If you’ve ever dealt with excessive lint, thread breaks, or uneven stitches, chances are the problem wasn’t your machine—it was the thread. That’s why so many quilters, from beginners to professionals, choose Aurifil.
Quick Take: If you want the safest “do-it-all” quilting thread, start with Aurifil 50wt—then add 40wt when you want more stitch definition.
Why Thread Quality Matters in Quilting
Thread is literally holding your quilt together. Poor-quality thread can cause:
- Frequent thread breaks
- Excess lint buildup
- Tension issues
- Weakened seams over time
Aurifil is known for smooth, strong performance and low lint—meaning cleaner stitches, fewer interruptions, and less buildup in your machine.
How to Choose Quilting Thread: Understanding Thread Weight
Thread weight refers to the thickness of the thread. Here’s the key rule: the higher the number, the finer the thread.
Aurifil offers multiple weights, but the two you’ll use most often for quilting are 50wt and 40wt. Use this cheat sheet to pick the right one fast.
Aurifil Thread Weight Cheat Sheet
| Weight | Best For | Look + Feel | Quick Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80wt | Appliqué, micro-stitching, very fine detail | Very fine, subtle | Choose when you want thread to “disappear.” |
| 50wt | Piecing, quilting, general quilting use | Fine + strong, low bulk | Your everyday go-to. Start here if you’re unsure. |
| 40wt | Quilting, decorative stitching | More visible stitches, added texture | Use when you want your quilting to show more. |
| 28wt | Handwork, bold decorative stitches | Thicker, more pronounced | Great for big stitch looks and statement lines. |
| 12wt | Hand quilting, heavy decorative stitching | Bold, high impact | Perfect for dramatic texture and visible detail. |
Pro Tip: Many quilters piece with 50wt and quilt with 40wt for added stitch definition.
Aurifil 50wt: The Go-To Quilting Thread
Aurifil 50wt is the most popular weight—and for good reason. It’s a favorite for piecing and quilting because it’s fine, strong, and gives you clean, flat seams without bulk.
Best uses for 50wt
- Piecing quilt tops
- Machine quilting
- Appliqué
- General sewing
If you’re not sure where to start, 50wt is the safest and most versatile choice.
Aurifil 40wt: When You Want More Definition
Aurifil 40wt is slightly thicker than 50wt and is often chosen when you want your quilting stitches to stand out more. Many quilters piece with 50wt and quilt with 40wt to get the best of both worlds.
Best uses for 40wt
- Quilting when stitch definition matters
- Decorative stitching
- Projects where texture is part of the design
Why Aurifil Is the Best Choice for Quilters
Not all cotton threads are created equal. Quilters love Aurifil because it’s consistent, smooth, and machine-friendly—so you spend less time troubleshooting and more time sewing.
- Smoother stitching with fewer tension headaches
- Low lint for cleaner machines
- Reliable strength for piecing and quilting
- Huge color range for perfect blends and matches
Choosing Colors: Single Spools vs. Thread Kits
If color choice feels overwhelming, Aurifil kits are a fantastic way to build a thread stash without guessing. Many kits are curated by designers and color experts so you get shades that work across lots of projects.
Tips for Getting the Best Results with Aurifil
- Use a size 80/12 or 90/14 needle for 50wt (depending on fabric + layers).
- If you switch thread weights, test on a scrap and adjust tension if needed.
- For best consistency, use high-quality thread in both the top and bobbin.
- Store thread away from direct sunlight to preserve color.
Beginner-friendly setup: Start with a couple spools of Aurifil 50wt in neutral shades, then add colors as your fabric stash grows.
FAQs About Aurifil Thread
What Aurifil thread weight should I buy first?
Start with Aurifil 50wt. It’s the most versatile for piecing and quilting and gives clean seams with minimal bulk. If you want your quilting stitches to show more, add 40wt next.
Is Aurifil good for both piecing and quilting?
Yes. Many quilters use 50wt for piecing and quilting. If you want more visible stitch lines and texture when quilting, consider 40wt.
Why does my machine lint up with some threads?
Lower-quality cotton threads can shed more fibers during stitching. Aurifil is known for a smoother finish and low lint, helping keep your machine cleaner and stitches more consistent.
Should I use the same thread in the bobbin?
For the most consistent results, many quilters prefer using quality thread in both the top and bobbin. If you mix threads, always test on a scrap and adjust tension as needed.
Are Aurifil thread kits worth it?
If you’re building a stash, kits can be an excellent value—especially neutrals and curated palettes that work across many projects. They also simplify color selection when you’re not sure what to choose.
Recommended Starter Aurifil Thread Stash
If you’re just getting started—or want to simplify your thread choices—this small Aurifil starter stash will cover the majority of quilting projects without overthinking color or weight.
| Thread | Why It Works | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Aurifil 50wt – White | Clean seams, low lint, blends well | Piecing & quilting light fabrics |
| Aurifil 50wt – Light Gray | Blends with most colors better than white | Everyday piecing |
| Aurifil 50wt – Beige or Cream | Soft neutral for warm fabrics | Traditional & modern quilts |
| Aurifil 40wt – Neutral | More visible quilting lines | Texture-focused quilting |
Shortcut: If you want an instant, perfectly balanced thread stash, start with a curated kit instead of individual spools.
Common Quilting Thread Problems (and How Aurifil Helps)
Thread Breaking
Frequent thread breaks are often caused by inconsistent thread thickness or excess lint. Aurifil’s long-staple cotton produces a smoother, stronger thread that reduces stress on your machine.
Lint Buildup in Your Machine
Some cotton threads shed heavily, leaving lint in the bobbin case and tension discs. Aurifil is known for being exceptionally low-lint, helping your machine run cleaner and smoother.
Uneven or Messy Stitches
Inconsistent thread can cause tension issues and skipped stitches. Aurifil’s uniform manufacturing helps create balanced stitches with less adjustment.
Thread Showing Too Much (or Too Little)
Choosing the right weight solves this problem:
- 50wt – Blends into seams and fabric
- 40wt – Adds visible texture and definition
Tip: When troubleshooting thread issues, always test on a scrap before adjusting machine tension.
Final Thoughts: Invest in Your Quilts
Fabric may catch the eye, but thread determines how your quilt performs over time. Choosing a high-quality thread like Aurifil means fewer frustrations, better stitch quality, and quilts that hold up beautifully.
Ready to choose your perfect spool? Shop Aurifil at Flash Sew & Quilt →