Can You Use Hand Quilting Thread in a Sewing Machine? (Please Don’t!)
This one’s a bit of a public service announcement for quilters, especially if you’re just getting started. It’s such a common question: can you use hand quilting thread in your sewing machine? The short answer is no.
Definitely not.
Please don’t!
I know thread can be confusing when you’re new to quilting. There are so many types, brands, colours, and labels that all seem to say “quilting” - but they’re not all created equal. And there’s one particular thread that causes a lot of trouble if it ends up in your machine...
The Thread to Avoid
Let’s talk about Gutermann. It’s a great brand - I use it all the time for quilting - but they make a thread that causes no end of confusion. It’s called Gutermann Quilting Thread and it comes on a spool with a pinky-beige base. Sounds perfect for quilting, right?
Wrong.
This particular thread is designed for hand quilting only. And I’m waving a big red flag here - pleeeeeeeeease don’t put it in your sewing machine.
Here’s Why You Shouldn't Use It in Your Machine
Gutermann hand quilting thread is specially coated with a light wax. This makes it glide more easily through your quilt layers when you’re hand stitching; it’s PERFECT for hand quilting, and it’s lovely to use for exactly that.
But that same wax is terrible for your sewing machine.
It can clog up the inner workings of your machine, such as the tension discs and other tiny mechanical bits. That means extra maintenance, costly repairs, and in some cases, serious damage. So if you’ve picked up that spool and thought, “Ooh, quilting thread, sounds good,” pop it straight back down unless you’re hand quilting.
What Thread You Should Use for Machine Quilting
If you like Gutermann (and I definitely do!), look out for their Coton 30 machine quilting threads, which are completely safe to use in your sewing machine.
You’ll also find beautiful rayon embroidery threads, which can be used for decorative machine or hand stitching, and some stunning metallic threads if you fancy adding a bit of bling and sparkle.
To help you remember (this is for Gutermann only; other brands have other coloured spools. Yes, I know right!):
- 🩷 Pink/Beige spool that says "Quilting" = Hand quilting only (waxed – do not use in your machine)
- 🩶 Grey or white spools = Machine quilting (safe for your machine)
If you're in a shop and not sure, just give the thread a feel: hand quilting thread will be smoother and silkier to the touch.
What the Hand Quilting Thread Looks Like
If you're wondering what to avoid, here’s a photo of the Gutermann Hand Quilting Thread spool so you know what to look for. (Link coming soon when they’re live in the shop!)
Final Thoughts
It’s such an easy mistake to make, especially when you're new. So if you’ve accidentally used hand quilting thread in your machine before, don’t worry, you’re not alone! But from now on, just keep an eye out for that sneaky pinky-beige spool, and save it for your hand stitching projects only.
I hope this post saves you an expensive trip to the repair shop - and a WHOLE lot of frustration!
Happy stitching,
Kim x