DMC Stranded Cotton Embroidery Thread - 581

DMC Stranded Cotton is the world's favorite embroidery thread, crafted from the finest long-staple...

Best current price£1.29from Minerva

All Offers

2 offers from £1.29 - £1.50

View price history by clicking the chart icon.

MinervaMinerva Stranded Embroidery Thread 581 Cotton Dmc D117fa581
£3.99 delivery
£1.29
Visit shop
Hobbycraft Trading LtdDmc Green Mouline Special 25 Cotton Thread (581) 8M
£4.95 delivery
£1.50
Visit shop

Product Information

Full details

DMC Stranded Cotton is designed for needlework enthusiasts and embroidery artists seeking professional-grade quality for their projects. Crafted from premium long-staple Egyptian cotton, this thread offers a superior silky sheen and long-lasting color vibrancy, making it the industry standard for hand embroidery and cross-stitch. While its high-quality construction ensures excellent durability, users should note that the six-strand design requires careful separation to avoid tangling when working on finer detail projects.

All features

Model Part NumberD117FA581
BrandDMC

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Can I use this thread in a sewing machine?

While it is primarily designed for hand embroidery, it can be used in some specialized machines, though it is generally not recommended as standard machine thread.

How many strands should I use?

This depends on the fabric count and your desired effect. Most cross-stitch patterns specify using 2 strands, but you can use anywhere from 1 to 6.

Is the color permanent?

Yes, DMC thread is colorfast and resistant to fading, provided it is cared for according to standard textile guidelines.

What is the specific color code for this thread?

This product corresponds to DMC color code 581.

Does the thread shrink when washed?

Because it is 100% long-staple Egyptian cotton, minor shrinkage may occur, so it is best to wash and block finished projects carefully.

Can I mix this with other thread types?

Yes, though mixing with synthetic threads may result in uneven tension due to different fiber stretch properties.

Troubleshooting

The thread is tangling while stitching.

Use shorter lengths of thread (typically 12-18 inches) and ensure strands are separated individually before threading your needle.

The thread appears to be fraying.

Ensure your needle eye is not too small, as excessive friction can wear down the cotton fibers during repeated passes.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • High-quality sheen and texture
  • Excellent colorfastness over time
  • Versatile six-strand composition
  • Easy to work with for both beginners and professionals

Cons

  • Strands can tangle if pulled too quickly
  • Limited length per skein for very large-scale projects
  • Requires careful storage to prevent moisture damage

Setup, Compatibility & Care

To prepare your thread, locate the end marked by the label and pull gently to extract the desired length. When using multiple strands, cut the length first, then separate each strand individually before reuniting them to prevent knots.

Compatibility: This thread is compatible with all standard embroidery needles. For 2-strand work, a size 24 or 26 tapestry needle is recommended.

Care Instructions:

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain fiber integrity.
  • If washing completed projects, use mild detergents and avoid harsh bleaching agents.
  • Lay flat to dry to keep stitches uniform and professional.

Price History

DatePrice
Visit shop