DMC Threads

Which DMC thread does what

Nearly every chart you will ever buy is written in DMC shade numbers, which is why this range acts as the reference standard for counted work. The workhorse is Stranded Cotton: six loosely twisted, mercerised strands you separate to control weight. Perlé is the opposite idea — a non-divisible twisted thread with a visible pearl-like sheen, sold in thicknesses where the higher the number, the finer the thread, so No.12 is delicate and No.5 is bold. Coton à Broder 16 and 25 are single, smooth threads traditionally used for whitework and cutwork.

The specialty threads

• Coloris: stranded cotton with four shades along a single strand, giving gentle colour movement without changing needles.
• Colour Variations: tonal hand-dyed effect over a longer repeat, ideal for skies, water and foliage.
• Etoile: stranded cotton with a fine sparkle spun through it, subtle enough for whole projects.
• Satin Floss: high-shine rayon-look thread, gorgeous but slippery; cut short lengths and let the needle dangle to untwist.
• Diamant and Light Effects: true metallics for stars, frost, jewellery and lettering accents.
• Soft Cotton and Craft Cotton: thicker matte threads for children's work, redwork and bold surface stitching.
• Eco Vita: naturally dyed organic wool, at home in crewel and wool embroidery rather than counted cross stitch.

How many strands and how much to buy

Most cross stitch on 14 count Aida uses two strands for the crosses and one for backstitch; on 18 count or over two threads of 28 count linen, two strands still reads well but one gives a finer line. Surface embroidery is freer — three or four strands for a satin-stitched petal, one for fine stems. Work with a length of about 45cm. Longer and the thread frays from being pulled through the fabric repeatedly, which is what causes that thin, fuzzy look towards the end of a needleful. For coverage, a single skein goes a long way on small motifs; big charts with a large block of one background shade are the ones that need two or three, so check the chart's thread list before you order.

Working tips that save time

Separate strands one at a time from the cut length and lay them together before threading; they sit parallel and cover the fabric far better than strands pulled off as a clump. If your thread keeps twisting, drop the needle and let it spin free every dozen stitches. Store skeins on bobbins or in a floss box with the number written down — an unlabelled shade is effectively useless when a chart calls for 3021 rather than "dark brown". Metallics behave best with short lengths, a slightly larger needle and a slower rhythm.

Washing and colourfastness

DMC stranded cotton is colourfast under normal conditions, but reds and deep blues can still bleed if a piece is soaked in warm water or left wet. Wash finished work quickly in cool water with a mild soap, rinse until the water runs clear, roll in a towel and press face down. Never wring, and do not leave a damp piece folded overnight.

DMC thread questions

How many strands are in DMC Stranded Cotton? Six, and you divide them according to the pattern and fabric count.

What is the difference between Perlé No.5 and No.8? No.5 is the thicker of the two; No.8 is finer and No.12 finer still. None of them are divisible.

Can I use DMC thread for hand embroidery as well as cross stitch? Yes. Stranded cotton, Perlé and Coton à Broder are all standard surface embroidery threads.

How do I stop metallic thread shredding? Cut it to around 30cm, use a needle with a larger eye and let the thread untwist regularly.

Is there a way to check a shade before buying? A printed shade card with real thread swatches is the reliable method; screen colours are never exact.