THREAD
What type of Cotton does Aurifil use?
Aurifil is 100% Egyptian Cotton, grown in the MAKO region of Egypt on the river Nile. When considering the quality of cotton we can make the comparison to that of wine, different geographic areas offer different attributes to the raw material. Aurifil thread is long staple, which refers to the length of the fibers in the raw cotton Boll, the length of the fibers determine the quality of the cotton.
Where is Aurifil manufactured?
The Aurifil production process is based in Milan, Italy. It’s here where the thread undergoes 15 steps before it becomes a spool ready for use.
What types of thread does Aurifil currently produce?
We are proud to offer our 100% Egyptian Cotton thread in 12wt, 28wt, 40wt, 50wt, 80wt, 40wt/3ply and a 6-strand floss. Our Wool thread is available in 12wt and we also produce a Nylon Monofilament.
How many colors are available for each weight?
We know that finding that perfect color is key for your projects, so we’re happy to offer our threads in a wide variety of colours, including a strong sampling of variegated threads.
12wt, 28wt, 40wt, 50wt and Floss are available in 270 colours — Click here for more info.
Forty3 is available in 50 colours.
80wt thread is available in 88 colours.
Wool is available in 192 colours.
Monofilament is available in two colours.
Is Aurifil thread organic?
While Aurifil threads are not organic, we are proud to be Oeko-Tex certified. Oeko-Tex certification relates to how a product is processed, including things like dyes and finishes used. It means that our threads are certified free of harmful chemicals and are completely safe for human use. Or… in quilter’s terms, you and your loved ones can wrap yourselves in those lovingly stitched quilts without worry!
How do you measure the weight of Cotton?
Our thread weight is determined by something called Number English or Ne. Ne is a measure of linear density and refers to the number of hanks (840yd or 770m) of skein material that weigh 1lb. For instance, 50 hanks (42,000yd or 38,500m) or our 50wt thread (Ne 50) weighs 1lb. Under this system, the higher the number, the finer the thread.
Is Aurifil thread waxed or coated?
Aurifil thread is not waxed, but it is passed through a transparent paraffin oil during the winding process. It is this treatment that eventually helps the thread to glide through your machine. It does not leave any type of residue, simply serving to increase functionality to ensure the highest level of ease for the end user.
Does Aurifil thread have a sheen?
Yes! Aurifil thread is mercerized which is a process that not only strengthens the thread, but also provides it with a beautiful sheen.
Do Aurifil colors bleed in the wash?
As with any colorful textiles, Aurifil threads may bleed if not cared for properly. We have taken care to classify each of our colors as Indanthren or Reactive and have outlined proper care for both on all thread product pages. Following these standards of care ensures that your Aurifil colors will not bleed and will look rich and vibrant for years to come!
What are Indanthren and Reactive Colors?
Indanthren colors are our ‘work-horse’ colors. They are seen as more heavy-duty and have a high level of colorfastness. Reactive colors are a bit less stable. They are created with a reactive dye, meaning that the color reacts to and bonds with the fiber during the dyeing process. They are less commonly used with our threads as they are can be more prone to bleed, requiring a different type of care. 23 of our 270 available Cotton colors are reactive.
What does the * mean on the color chart?
The * indicates a reactive colour.
Do you have a silk thread?
We do not produce silk threads, but for a similar look, we would recommend checking out our new 100% Cotton 80wt thread. It is thin, strong, and produces a stunningly beautiful result!
USE
What needle should I use for each weight of Aurifil thread?
We have just produced a gorgeous brochure, which will be available soon, that outlines all of our recommendations in a more visual context. For the nitty gritty, see below:
12wt: 100/16 or 90/14 Topstitch needle, 4.5 Longarm needle
28 wt: 90/14 Topstitch, Quilting or Denim needle, 4.5 longarm needle
28wt: 90/14 Topstitch, Quilting or Denim needle, 4.0 Longarm needle
40wt: 80/12 Microtex/Sharp, Universal or Denim needle, 4.5 Longarm needle
50wt: 80/12 Microtex/Sharp, Universal or Denim needle, 4.0 Longarm needle
80wt: 70/10 or 80/12 Microtex/Sharp or Embroidery
Wool: 90/14 Topstitch needle, use the largest longarm needle possible
Polyester: 80/12 Microtex/Sharp, Universal or Denim Needle, 3.5 or 4.0 longarm needle
Monofilament: 80/12 or 70/10 Topstitching or Microtex/Sharp needle
Why would you use 50wt over 40wt thread?
Our 50wt thread is thinner than the 40wt, making it ideal for piecing. It is this thinness that provides flatter, more accurate seams resulting in a truly professional finished product. When it comes to quilting, the 50wt is a fantastic choice because it sinks into the fabrics, creating the perfect amount of definition without being overbearing, allowing the piecing to be the star of the show!
What Is the best weight for quilting?
The best wt for quilting truly depends on the type of quilting you are looking to achieve: 80wt allows for superfine detail; 50wt offers a beautiful subtle effect to allow the piecing to shine; 40wt provides greater stitch definition while still highlighting the piecing; 28wt by machine allows your stitching to shine with bold results and by hand creates beautiful texture; 12wt is our go-to for big stitch hand quilting.
What Is the best weight for piecing?
Our 50wt thread is the ideal weight for piecing because it results in flat, non-bulky seams. It is a fine, strong thread that virtually disappears.
Why should I use Aurifil threads?
Aurifil produces a mercerized thread that is widely heralded by a dedicated tribe of quilters, sewists, and textile artists for its versatility, its strength, its lustrous colour and the fact that it produces virtually no lint. It is super high quality at a competitive price point. Aurifil thread truly is the best choice for all of your project needs! Don’t believe us? Check our thread out online — a simple google search will result in a wide range of user reviews, practical uses, and stockist reports.
Why should my shop stock Aurifil threads?
As a family company we’re committed to working with independent Brick & Mortar quilt shops. We’ve made a commitment to our stockists that Aurifil won’t be sold to Large chain retailers and never sold by Aurifil to the final consumer. We work hard and invest heavily in supporting Quilt Shops, including Alex Veronelli’s infamous traveling lecture series! We donate heavily every year to charities and community projects. We’re proud to be a generous organisation that gives back to our beautiful and creative community.
What are the best practices for using Aurifil’s new 80wt thread?
Because our 80wt is such a delicate, thin thread, we recommend using a very thin, very sharp needle when machine sewing. It also helps to take your time and sew slowly. For hand sewing, some users like to use a thread conditioner, though we find that it’s not necessary. We suggest using lengths no longer than 14”-16″ for best results and minimal breakage. Don’t pull too hard, but don’t be afraid to be firm with your stitches. Our favorite hand sewing needle for this weight is the Tulip Hiroshima needle #10.
How do I find the beginning of a Large Spool?
To find the start of your new Large Spool, simply twist and remove the plastic spool base. You can learn more here.
FINDING AND PURCHASING
Where can I purchase Aurifil threads?
Aurifil works with a dedicated group of brick & mortar shops worldwide. We would recommend consulting our store locator to find your closest Aurifil dealer. You may also submit a query via our Thread Concierge to receive assistance from an Aurifil staff member.
If you’re located in the US, you may purchase your favorite curated thread collections online at shopaurifil.com.
No stores in my area carry Aurifil threads. Where can I find the threads I need?
We offer several options to track down your favorite Aurifil threads.
— Consult our shop locator to find the closest shop stocking Aurifil thread.
— Submit a query via our Thread Concierge to receive assistance from one of our staff members.
— Find your favorite curated thread collections via shopaurifil.com.
Can I purchase directly from you?
If you are a shop looking to purchase directly from Aurifil, we’d invite you to apply by clicking here. Please have your resale certificate and tax ID ready at time of application.
At this time, Aurifil only sells curated house & designer collections via shopaurifil.com. We do not sell individual spools.
Do you have an online shop?
If you’re located in the US, you may purchase our curated thread collections via shopaurifil.com. We do not sell individual spools.
Worldwide thread queries may be submitted via our Thread Concierge. We’ll do our best to find a convenient online destination.
I’d like to purchase a particular Designer collection but no stores in my area carry that item. How can I get it?
If you’re located in the US, you may purchase your favorite Aurifil Collections via shopaurifil.com. If you’re located outside of the US, please submit a query via our Thread Concierge.
How do I get a color chart?
Our color cards are for sale through your favorite local quilt shop or go-to online quilt retailer. To purchase a color card from Aurifil, please click here.
CUSTOMER CARE
I’m having issues with a spool. How do I get assistance?
We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. For help with all of your thread-related issues or questions, please contact [email protected] for assistance.
PATTERNS AND TUTORIALS
Are there any free tutorials or patterns you would recommend?
For access to our free patterns, including our Designer of the Month blocks, please visit our Patterns page.
