Variegated Thread For Embroidery

I love to try different elements in my embroidery and one of those is using variegated thread.  You may have seen this type thread at your local sewing store but were hesitant to purchase it.  There are  many brands on the market and they do have some differences.  The main similarity is that they have multiple colors along the length of the thread. The distance of the color changes can be longer or shorter. Also, I have purchased both polyester and rayon.

This brand also has what is called a "twisted" variety.  When it stitches out, you can see two threads that are twisted together instead of one that has been dyed different colors.

Here is what I have in my stash.  They look really pretty lined up don't they?  I like seeing them displayed but sometimes it is difficult to know which color to use in my project. You have to look really closely at them because they will surprise you.  Your eye may not see all of the colors because they can blend together.

I took all of the numbers and names of my threads in stock and created a design in my embroidery software. This way I could "test" stitch each one out and see what they actually look like.

 Here is that "twisted" variety

Here is one of the dyed threads.

I like to buy fleece in large yardage to practice some of my designs and also keep them for future reference.

Here are all of my variegated threads stitched out on the fleece. See how I used the thread number or name? Now I can grab the correct one just by looking at this stitchout.

I just trimmed the fleece to a size that would fit into a binder with plastic sheet covers.

Now I have a permanent organized way to see what variegated thread I have in stock and exactly what it should look like when it is stitched out. This will save me from choosing colors that might not go together in my projects. It is also a great way to get inspired to create something and use those materials I have on hand.  I have also used this as a tool to show customers alternatives in their designs. You would be surprised how fun it is seeing a simple design changed just by using variegated thread. Maybe you have some in your stash? If so, have some fun and give it a try. I hope you have enjoyed this post, share what you learn and are generous with what you create. Someone will appreciate your hard work!