Thread talk at Barnyarns: Gutermann Threads

Why choose Gutermann Threads

Trusted by sewists around the world, Gutermann is synonymous with precision, strength, and smooth performance. Made in Germany, these threads are engineered for reliability, gliding through machines effortlessly and producing beautifully even stitches. 

From all-purpose Sew-All to innovative Maraflex for stretch fabrics, durable Denim and Extra Strong threads, and professional overlock options, Gutermann offers a complete range for every sewing need. Whether you’re making garments, quilting, or crafting home décor, you can rely on Gutermann threads for colourfast, consistent results that stand the test of time. It’s the thread you can trust, project after project.

Gutermann Sew All 156 Red 100m Reel

£2.20

Gutermann Sew-All Thread in Colour 156 is the ideal thread for all sewing projects by machine and hand. Manufactured from 100% polyester, this thread sews like pure silk with the added benefit of strength and colour fastness. Gutermann guarantee that… read more

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Why Choose Gutermann Thread

Thread might seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in how your sewing looks, feels, and lasts. Good-quality thread keeps your machine running smoothly, your seams strong, and your stitches neat and even. That’s why so many sewists around the world trust Gutermann.

Made in Germany with exceptional precision, Gutermann threads are known for their strength, consistency, and versatility — the perfect choice for everything from dressmaking and quilting to home décor and repairs.

Engineered for Smooth, Reliable Sewing

Gutermann threads are produced using advanced manufacturing processes, including Micro Core Technology, which creates perfectly even, high-strength threads without weak spots or lint. The result is a thread that runs cleanly through your machine, forms smooth stitches, and resists fraying or breakage, even at higher speeds.

This precision makes Gutermann threads a favourite among hobbyists who want professional-looking results at home.

A Complete Thread Family

Gutermann offers one of the most comprehensive thread collections available, with options designed for almost every fabric and technique. 

Sew-All

The best-known Gutermann thread, Sew-All, is a 100% polyester, all-purpose thread designed for use on virtually any fabric. Available in an extensive range of colours it combines strength, elasticity, and a smooth finish, ideal for both machine and hand sewing.

Sulky 12 / Sulky 30

Made from 100% high-quality Egyptian cotton, mercerised for a smooth, lustrous finish. Perfect for quilting, embroidery, topstitching, and decorative work, these threads deliver rich colour and a soft, natural sheen. Cotton 12 is slightly thicker for bold detailing, while Cotton 30 offers finer precision.

Top Stitch

A thicker polyester thread that adds a strong, decorative line,  ideal for visible seams on denim, jackets, or bags. Use with a topstitch or jeans needle for best results.

Denim Thread

Specifically engineered for jeans and heavyweight fabrics, Gutermann Denim Thread creates robust seams with the authentic look of ready-to-wear denim. It’s available in both classic and contrast colours to match or highlight topstitching.

Extra Strong

For upholstery, bags, outdoor gear, or any project that needs added durability, Extra Strong provides maximum tensile strength with excellent abrasion resistance.

Maraflex

One of Gutermann’s most innovative threads, Maraflex is a highly elastic thread that allows seams to stretch up to 80%. It’s perfect for sewing stretch fabrics such as jersey, activewear, or leggings, without needing an overlocker. It creates flexible seams that move comfortably with the fabric.

Recycled Polyester

Sustainability meets performance: rPET is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles but maintains the same strength, colourfastness, and smooth finish as standard Sew-All.

Silk

This 100% pure silk thread gives fine and lustrous finish. Gutermann Silk Thread is ideal for hand-finishing, buttonholes, or delicate fabrics such as silk and satin.

Overlock and Coverstitch Threads

Gutermann’s Tera, Bulky-Lock and Toldi Lock ranges are designed specifically for overlockers and coverstitch machines.

• Tera is a beautifully smooth and fine, semi translucent thread that blend beautifully and leaves no impression after ironing.
• Bulky-Lock is a soft, bulky polyester thread that gives beautiful coverage on a variety of seams. Particularly useful for activewear and undergarments.
• Toldi-Lock is a durable overlock thread that offers excellent elasticity and low lint, perfect for stretchy fabrics knits and everyday wear.

Why Quality Matters

Low-cost thread can cause more trouble than it saves, uneven tension, lint build-up, skipped stitches, or breakages. Gutermann’s precision manufacturing means fewer interruptions and better stitch definition. You’ll notice your machine runs more smoothly, and your finished projects look cleaner and more consistent.

The threads are colourfast, fade-resistant, and durable, so your stitching stays strong and vibrant even after washing or long wear.

Choosing the Right Thread for Your Fabric

• Everyday sewing: Sew-All or Recycled
• Denim and heavy materials: Denim Thread or Extra Strong
• Stretch fabrics: Maraflex 
• Decorative seams: Top Stitch or Sulky Cotton 30
• Fine fabrics and hand finishing: Silk

Price and Value 

Gutermann sits in the mid-range for price but consistently outperforms budget threads in reliability and finish. The smooth running, reduced lint, and strong colour retention make it cost-effective in the long term. Larger reels (250m, 500m, or 1000m) offer excellent value for frequently used shades.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a universal needle (size 80/12) for most general sewing.
• Match thread fibre to fabric type (e.g. cotton with cotton, polyester with synthetics).
• For heavy or decorative stitching, use a topstitch or jeans needle.
• For Maraflex, reduce tension slightly and use a stretch or jersey needle.
• Keep thread stored away from direct light and dust to preserve colour and texture.

Final Thoughts

Gutermann threads combine engineering precision with everyday practicality. They’re designed to give hobby sewists the same level of reliability that professionals demand,  smooth running, perfect stitches, and long-lasting seams on every project.

Where Madeira excels in embroidery and decorative finishes, Gutermann shines as the go-to thread for all-purpose sewing, garment construction, and creative versatility. Whether you’re piecing a quilt, sewing activewear, or making something to last a lifetime, Gutermann helps every stitch perform beautifully.