Choosing the Perfect Thread for Bag-Making: A Comprehensive Guide for Every Bag-Maker

Bag-making is an art that requires the right combination of materials and techniques to create beautiful, durable pieces. While many sewists focus on fabric choice, the type of thread is just as important. The right thread not only affects the appearance of the final product but also ensures that your bag will hold up over time. In this guide, we’ll explore the best threads for bag-making, their characteristics, strengths, and ideal uses. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced bag maker, choosing the perfect thread can elevate every project.

Why Thread Choice Matters in Bag-Making

When crafting bags, the thread you choose impacts everything from seam strength to aesthetic appeal. Bag seams often endure substantial stress, particularly in handles, zippers, and base seams. Using the right type of thread ensures that your bag can withstand regular use, helping you achieve a professional finish. By understanding different thread types, you’ll be better equipped to select the best one for your project and avoid frustration during the sewing process.

Types of Threads for Bag-Making

Let’s dive into a few of the most popular threads for bag-making, covering their unique properties, strengths, and weaknesses. We’ll also give project recommendations and fabric pairings to help you make the right choice.

1. Glide Thread (Tex 27)

Glide thread, is a polyester thread, is known for its smooth, lint-free finish and moderate strength of around 5 lbs. This thread provides a refined appearance, making it an excellent choice for decorative stitching, quilting, or bags with intricate topstitching details.

Strengths:

• Smooth, lint-free finish adds a polished look to seams
• Versatile and easy to use on domestic, semi-industrial machines
• Ideal for decorative stitching without bulk
• Recommended Needle Sizes 80-100 (12-16)
• Thread Weight: 40

Weaknesses:

• Lacks the strength needed for heavy-duty bag construction
• Not recommended for Industrial Sewing Machines
• Best for decorative use or light projects that don’t bear weight

Best Projects for Glide Thread 

Glide thread is ideal for quilted bag panels, decorative stitching, or lighter bags that prioritize appearance over heavy-duty durability. Use Glide thread for projects where detailing and smooth finishes are key, such as clutch bags, mini-totes, or accent stitching on bag panels. It works well on quilting cotton and similar fabrics where bold topstitching is desired.

2. Tex 45 Thread

Tex 45 is a lightweight but durable thread, often considered the entry-level option for bag-making. With a weight of about 8 lbs, Tex 45 provides moderate strength without adding bulk, making it a popular choice for lighter bags and smaller projects.

Strengths:

• Easy to use on most domestic sewing machines
• Provides a polished look for lightweight fabrics
• Great for small bags, wallets, and pouches
• Recommended Needle Sizes 90-110 (14-18)
• Thread Weight: 30 (this number can vary slightly depending on the manufacture)

Weaknesses:

Not suitable for heavy-duty bags or thick materials
May not provide enough strength for handles or seams under significant stress

Best Projects for Tex 45

Tex 45 is ideal for projects where lightweight durability is sufficient, such as cosmetic bags, wallets, or small pouches. This thread works well on fabrics like quilting cotton, linen, and light canvas, giving a clean finish without overwhelming the fabric. If your sewing machine has trouble with Tex 45 in the bobbin, try pairing it with a finer bobbin thread, such as Glide for smooth topstitching.

3. Tex 70 Thread

Tex 70 is a medium-weight, high-strength thread with a weight of around 11 lbs. Known for its durability, Tex 70 is often used in larger bags and projects that require sturdy seams, especially on stress points like handles and zippers. Commonly used with industrial sewing machines.

Strengths:

• High strength and durability, perfect for bag construction
• Creates bold, professional-looking topstitching
• Works well on heavier fabrics like canvas, vinyl, and faux leather
• Recommended Needle Sizes: 18-21 (110-130) needles
• Thread Weight: 20 (this number can vary slightly depending on the manufacture)

Weaknesses:

• Too thick for domestic machines, and some semi-industrial machines especially in the bobbin
• Can add bulk to seams, which may not suit delicate or light fabric designs

Best Projects for Tex 70 

Tex 70 is great for tote bags, duffel bags, and backpacks—essentially any bag that will bear weight or daily use. It pairs well with durable fabrics like canvas, faux leather, leather, and upholstery-weight fabrics. For the best results, use Tex 70 on a semi-industrial or industrial machine, and if needed, pair it with Tex 45 in the bobbin to ease tension and reduce bulk.

How to Select the Best Thread Based on Fabric and Design

Choosing the right thread for your bag depends on several factors: fabric weight, bag size, and intended use. Here are some tips to guide your choice:

 1. Consider the Fabric: For heavy fabrics like canvas or vinyl, opt for Tex 70 to ensure seams hold up under stress. For lighter fabrics like cotton, Tex 45 or Glide thread works well for strength without unnecessary bulk.

 2. Match Thread with Bag Use: For bags designed to carry weight, like backpacks or totes, Tex 70 provides the necessary durability. For smaller bags or bags meant for decorative purposes, Tex 45 or Glide thread will offer a more refined finish.

3. Experiment with Thread Pairing: If your machine struggles with heavier threads in the bobbin, consider using Tex 45 or a coordinating lightweight thread in the bobbin with Tex 70 on top. This combination allows you to achieve strong topstitching without putting strain on your machine.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right thread for your bag-making project can transform both the durability and appearance of your bag. From lightweight Tex 45 for smaller projects to sturdy Tex 70 for heavy-duty bags, each thread serves a unique purpose. Glide thread adds a beautiful, polished finish for decorative work. At Sew Yours, we’re dedicated to helping you create bags you’ll love and cherish. By considering your fabric, design, and machine type, you can make an informed choice to get the perfect thread every time.

Ready to start your next project? Check out our sewing patterns and supplies at Sew Yours for all your bag-making needs!