Embroidery thread

Embroidery thread is yarn that is manufactured or hand-spun specifically for embroidery and other forms of needlework.

Threads for hand embroidery include: [Reader's Digest "Complete Guide to Needlework". The Reader's Digest Association, Inc. (March 1992). ISBN 0-89577-059-8, p. 8]

*Embroidery floss or stranded cotton is a loosely twisted, slightly glossy 6-strand thread, usually of cotton but also manufactured in silk and rayon. Cotton floss is the standard thread for cross-stitch. Extremely shiny rayon floss is characteristic of Brazilian embroidery.
*Perle cotton, pearl cotton, or French coton perlé is an S-twisted, 2-ply thread with high sheen, sold in three sizes or weights (No. 3, 5, and 8, with 3 being the heaviest).
*Matte embroidery cotton or French coton à broder is a matte-finish (not glossy) twisted 5-ply thread.
*Medici or broder medici is a fine, light-weight wool thread formerly manufactured by DMC Group.
*Crewel yarn is a fine 2-ply yarn of wool or, less often, a wool-like acrylic.
*Persian yarn is a loosely twisted 3-strand yarn of wool or acrylic, often used for needlepoint.
*Tapestry yarn or tapestry wool is a tightly twisted 4-ply yarn.

Threads for machine embroidery are usually of polyester or rayon (less often cotton or silk).

Notes

References

*Reader's Digest "Complete Guide to Needlework". The Reader's Digest Association, Inc. (March 1992). ISBN 0-89577-059-8