Best Cotton Quilting Thread of 2025

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Cotton quilting thread is a popular choice for quilters of all levels. Made from 100% cotton fibers, this thread is strong, durable, and has a natural look that complements any quilt design. It is also easy to work with, as it glides smoothly through fabric without tangling or breaking. Available in a wide range of colors and weights, cotton quilting thread can be used for both machine and hand quilting. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced quilter, cotton quilting thread is a must-have in your sewing kit.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

New brothread Mercerized Cotton Threads Cover #TOP 1
New brothread Mercerized Cotton Threads
ftb score rating icon 9.8
3-PACK Aurifil Light Beige Mako Cotton Thread Solid Cover #TOP 2
3-PACK Aurifil Light Beige Mako Cotton Thread Solid
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread Cover #TOP 3
Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Cotton Quilting Thread

#TOP 1

New brothread Mercerized Cotton Threads

NB-MCT-24C
24 Basic Colors
600M(660Y)
New brothread Mercerized Cotton Threads Cover
New brothread - 18 Options - Multi-Purpose 100% Mercerized Cotton Threads 50S/3 600M(660Y) Each Spool for Quilting, Serger, Sewing and Embroidery - 24 Basic Colors

New brothread Mercerized Cotton Threads are high-quality, 100% gassed and Mercerized cotton threads that are 50 weight and 3-Ply twisted bonded. They come in 18 options with 600M (660Y) each spool and are suitable for quilting, serger, piecing, machine sewing, hand sewing, heavy machine embroidery and light hand embroidery. These threads have a smoother surface, greater luster and matt look, which makes them an ideal choice for natural fabrics such as cotton and linen. The spool comes with a locking base, preventing thread tangling.

What We Like
Made from high-quality cotton, which is stronger than normal cotton
Suitable for natural fabrics like cotton and linen
Spool with locking base prevents thread tangling
#TOP 2

3-PACK Aurifil Light Beige Mako Cotton Thread Solid

A1050-2310x3
Light Beige
3 Spool Bundles
3-PACK Aurifil Light Beige Mako Cotton Thread Solid Cover
3-PACK - Aurifil Light Beige - A1050-2310 - Mako Cotton Thread Solid 50WT 1422Yds each3

This quilter's delight offers three spools of large 1422 yard Mako cotton thread, ideal for both hand and machine piecing. The light beige color and virtually lint-free quality of thread make it possible to achieve highly accurate seam allowances. This thread is a quilter's best choice for piecing and appliqué work. The spools come factory-sealed in shrink wrap.

What We Like
Three large 1422-yard spools
100% Egyptian cotton makes it virtually lint-free
Great for highly accurate seam allowances
#TOP 3

Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread

20061
Muslin
1422 yd
Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread Cover
AURIFIL USA Aurifil 50wt Cotton 1,422yd-Muslin, 1422 yd, Muslin

Aurifil Thread is a high-quality quilting thread made of 100% long staple mercerized Egyptian Cotton. It is perfect for machine embroidery, quilting, and serging. With its large spool, you can complete your projects without worrying about running out of thread. The thread is made in Italy, ensuring excellent craftsmanship. The Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread is known for its durability and strength, making it ideal for any quilting project. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced quilter, this thread will provide you with the convenience and reliability you need. The thread's smooth texture and vibrant colors will enhance the beauty of your quilts, adding a professional touch to your creations. Experience the difference with Aurifil Thread!

What We Like
Durable
High-quality
Vibrant colors
#TOP 4

Aurifil Dove Cotton Thread 3-Pack

unknown
3pk - Dove 2600
Aurifil Dove Cotton Thread 3-Pack Cover
3-Pack - Aurifil 50WT - Dove, Solid - Mako Cotton Thread - 1422Yds Each

The Aurifil Dove Thread Pack includes three spools of high-quality, 50-weight Mako cotton thread, each with a generous length of 1422 yards. Made from 100% mercerized long staple Egyptian cotton, this thread is perfect for various sewing projects, including machine embroidery and quilting. You will appreciate its smooth texture and strength, which make stitching a breeze. Whether you're working on intricate designs or simple quilts, this premium thread enhances your sewing experience with durability and ease of use.

What We Like
High-quality Egyptian cotton
Smooth and strong texture
Great for embroidery and quilting
Generous length per spool
#TOP 5

Coats & Clark Hand Quilting Thread, 350-Yard, White

Coats & Clark
26610
White
Coats & Clark Hand Quilting Thread, 350-Yard, White Cover
COATS & CLARK S980-0100 Hand Quilting Cotton Thread, 350-Yard, White

The Coats & Clark Hand Quilting Thread is made of 100% cotton, perfect for traditional hand quilters. Its glace finish provides abrasion resistance and prevents tangling and knotting, making quilting less frustrating. The thread comes in a 350-yard spool, ensuring you have enough to complete your project.

What We Like
Made of 100% cotton
Glace finish prevents tangling and knotting
Provides abrasion resistance
#TOP 6

Threadart 100% Cotton Thread

THVC7739
Holiday
Threadart 100% Cotton Thread Cover
Threadart Multicolor 100% Cotton Thread | Variegated Colors for Quilting, Sewing, and Embroidery | Holiday | 40/3wt - 600M (660 Yards) Cones | Long Staple Low Lint Color 7739

Threadart Cotton Thread is a versatile choice for your quilting, sewing, and embroidery projects. This mercerized 100% cotton thread features beautiful variegated colors that change every 2 to 3 inches, adding a unique flair to your creations. With its strong construction and low lint, it ensures a smooth sewing experience, whether you're using a machine or stitching by hand. Available in 22 different color combinations, this thread is perfect for those who want to enhance their decorative stitching with brilliant colors and excellent durability.

What We Like
Variegated color effects
Strong and durable
Low lint production
Ideal for machine and hand use
#TOP 7

Aurifil 3-Pack Cotton Thread 50WT

4337017339
Light Beige
3- COUNT
Aurifil 3-Pack Cotton Thread 50WT Cover
3-PACK - Aurifil A1050-2600 Mako Cotton Thread Solid 50WT 1422Yds Dove

The Aurifil Cotton Thread Pack includes three spools of Dove-colored thread, each offering 1422 yards. Made from 100% long staple mercerized Egyptian cotton, this premium thread ensures a smooth and strong finish for your projects. It’s perfect for various applications, including machine embroidery, quilting, and serging, making it a versatile choice for any sewing enthusiast. With its high-quality construction, you can trust that your stitches will be durable and reliable, enhancing the overall quality of your work.

What We Like
High-quality Egyptian cotton
Versatile for multiple uses
Smooth and strong thread
Great value with 3 spools
#TOP 8

Aurifil Mako Cotton 40 Wt 2024 White 1094 Yds

2024
White
Aurifil Mako Cotton 40 Wt 2024 White 1094 Yds Cover
Aurifil Mako Cotton 40 Wt 2024 White 1094 Yds

Aurifil Cotton Thread is a high-quality 40 Wt, 2 ply cotton thread that is perfect for all your quilting needs. Whether you are machine quilting or hand quilting, this thread is the best choice. With its recommended needle size of 80/12 microtex/sharps or universal, 75/11 or 90/14 for quilting, you can easily achieve smooth and even stitches. The thread is also ideal for long-arm quilting, where a 3.5 or 4.0 needle is recommended. With its 1094 yards of thread, you can complete multiple quilting projects without worrying about running out of thread. The Aurifil Cotton Thread is a must-have for any quilter, providing strength, durability, and excellent stitch quality.

What We Like
High-quality cotton thread
Recommended needle sizes for various quilting techniques
Perfect for machine and hand quilting
#TOP 9

Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread Solid

A1050-2692
Black
1422 yd
Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread Solid Cover
Aurifil A1050-2692 Mako Cotton Thread Solid 50WT 1422Yds Black

The Aurifil Mako Cotton Thread Solid is a high-quality sewing thread manufactured in Italy. Made of 100% Long Staple Mercerized Egyptian Cotton, this thread is perfect for machine embroidery, quilting, and serging. With a large spool, you can keep working for longer periods without having to change the thread frequently. It's ideal for those who want to create high-quality projects that require strong, durable thread.

What We Like
High-quality sewing thread
Perfect for machine embroidery, quilting, and serging
Large spool for longer periods of work
#TOP 10

Simthread 12 Colors Cotton Thread

CT550Y
12 Spring Colors
Simthread 12 Colors Cotton Thread Cover
Simthread 12 Colors All Purposes Cotton Quilting Thread for Piecing Sewing Appliqué Embroidery etc

Simthread Cotton Thread Set offers a versatile collection of 12 vibrant colors, perfect for all your sewing needs. Made from 100% long staple mercerized cotton, this thread provides a strong, shiny finish that enhances your projects. Each spool contains 550 yards, allowing for plenty of usage in quilting, piecing, and embroidery. You’ll appreciate its smooth texture, which minimizes lint and works well with standard sewing machines. To ensure optimal performance, it’s recommended to use an 80/12 needle to prevent shredding and ensure smooth operation.

What We Like
Vibrant color selection
Strong and shiny finish
Minimizes lint buildup
Compatible with standard machines
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best cotton thread for quilting?

For most quilting on a home machine, a 40-weight cotton thread is an excellent choice. Because the 40 weight cotton thread is heavier than the finer 50 weight cotton thread, quilting stitches will show up more easily on the quilt.

2. What is quilting cotton thread?

Quilting threads are typically made of cotton or polyester. They are often used for visible stitches on a quilted pattern, as opposed to more hidden ones in apparel or upholstery. That said, 40- or 50-weight threads are the most common, so that they are still ultra-fine and subtle.

3. Is cotton thread good for quilting?

Cotton has a distinct texture and non-reflective matte finish that allows it to blend into the fabric better. It also carries zero stretch to the thread, which is ideal for quilts, as the thread won't cause the quilt to pucker after it's been used or washed.

4. What kind of thread should I use for quilting?

When it comes to shopping for thread, your best bet is to choose one made of long staple cotton which refers to the variety used to make the thread. The longer fibers, or staples, are ideal for quilting because the way the thread is spun decreases fuzz, corresponding to a decrease of lint while sewing.

Editor's Notes

During our cotton quilting thread research, we found 24 cotton quilting thread products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 63,504 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cotton quilting thread list. We found that most customers choose cotton quilting thread with an average price of $12.91.

The cotton quilting thread are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cotton quilting thread, including New brothread, Aurifil, Coats & Clark, Threadart, Simthread. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 397 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.