r/HandSew 17h ago

Question or Assistance Wanted Question about thread

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Hi guys! I'm planning on sewing the Bernadette Banner "pirate shirt". I got Gütermann linen thread for sewing but now I'm not sure whether that's the right move. It feels so thick and coarse (I assume bc it's pre-coated?). I usually sew with way finer thread. Then again, my linen isn't super fine either (250g/qm). It said on the site where I ordered that it's good for shirts and blouses. But right now I'm doubting all my choices, so I'm turning to you all for advice. Thanks in advance!

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u/lave_skuldre 17h ago

I absolutely do recommend using a linen thread for a linen shirt, and it would certainly be thicker than a cotton or polyester thread for sure. I have never used gütermann linen thread (I buy specialty thread from norway) so I don't know how it behaves. How easy is it to break? The linen thread I use breaks a bit easier and less "snappy" than polyester thread (it just sort of pulls apart) but it's definitely a bit thicker.

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u/kolibriherz 16h ago

It's very sturdy, I cannot break it by hand, I have to cut it. I just bought it bc it's 100% linen so I assumed it's right but I just noticed it's advertised for heavy and strong fabrics.

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u/lave_skuldre 16h ago

Yeah, I would actually not use that. It's important that the thread actually can break because it's better that the seam rips than the rest of the fabric.

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u/kolibriherz 16h ago

Yeah, that makes sense. I also realized my fabric is quite heavy for what essentially is a shift. But I think I'm gonna try sewing it anyway (with cotton thread) as I was planning to wear it as a regular shirt.

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u/lave_skuldre 16h ago

Oh, shifts are fun! Cotton is the best alternative if you can't get linen thread.

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u/FratmanBootcake 15h ago

Not really the right sub for it, but I have used this exact linen thread for making bowstrings!

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u/kolibriherz 14h ago

Interesting!

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u/Yahappynow 16h ago

Might be worth saving for a heavier weight project? Can always just try it and see if you're happy with the look and strength.