Quick verdict: For lasting handmade books, a suitable bookbinding thread is the most reliable starting point. Embroidery floss is useful for decorative exposed stitches, while ordinary machine sewing thread may be too thin for some binding structures.
Before buying another piece of stationery or craft equipment, consider your most frequent task. Price and popularity alone don’t settle whether one option will save time, avoid waste or improve the finished work. This guide separates real functional differences from upgrades that may not matter to you.
At a Glance
| Option | Why consider it | Before you buy |
|---|---|---|
| embroidery floss | Embroidery floss offers visible colours and can be separated into strands for decorative pamphlet stitches. | Confirm suitability for your everyday task |
| sewing thread | General-purpose sewing thread is widely available and strong relative to its diameter, but it can cut into paper if the binding is too tight. | Check compatibility and real upkeep costs |
embroidery floss: Advantages and Limitations
Embroidery floss offers visible colours and can be separated into strands for decorative pamphlet stitches. Its soft multi-strand structure may fray under repeated tension, and thickness can make holes bulky.
Who should buy: Anyone who needs the first option’s particular strengths on a regular basis. Who should skip: Buyers who chiefly need the second option’s capabilities, or who already have a reliable alternative.
sewing thread: Advantages and Limitations
General-purpose sewing thread is widely available and strong relative to its diameter, but it can cut into paper if the binding is too tight. Heavier linen or purpose-made bookbinding thread is often better suited to structural sewing.
Who should buy: People whose typical workload fits the second option. Who should skip: Someone who would mainly pay for unused features or extra storage.
Common Mistakes
Thread choice cannot compensate for misplaced holes, unsuitable paper grain, or overtight stitching. Use a blunt bookbinding needle when the holes are pre-punched and avoid stabbing through fibres repeatedly.
Practical Buying Checklist
Check thread diameter, strength, abrasion resistance, colourfastness and whether wax is appropriate for your binding style. Make a test signature before binding a full journal.
- Identify your main application before selecting materials or features.
- Check dimensions, specifications and replacements on the exact listing.
- Read the seller’s returns terms in your country before ordering.
- Test a small quantity before committing to a bulk purchase.
- Keep any manufacturer maintenance and safety instructions.
Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Paying extra for proper binding thread is worthwhile when you make books intended to be opened repeatedly. Decorative experiments can begin with a small supply you already own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both types?
Not necessarily. Start with the option suited to the task you do most often, and add the alternative only if it solves a specific repeated limitation.
Is the more expensive one always better?
No. Materials, reliability, compatibility and the intended use are more meaningful than price alone. Check current manufacturer details for particular products.
Related Reading
See our related guide on waxed and unwaxed bookbinding threads for another practical buying choice.
Final Verdict
For lasting handmade books, a suitable bookbinding thread is the most reliable starting point. Embroidery floss is useful for decorative exposed stitches, while ordinary machine sewing thread may be too thin for some binding structures. A sensible purchase solves an actual problem instead of filling a drawer with supplies you rarely use.
Shop the Options — USA and Canada
Choose your country and preferred option.
Compare embroidery floss — Amazon USA Compare embroidery floss — Amazon Canada
Compare sewing thread — Amazon USA Compare sewing thread — Amazon Canada
Affiliate disclosure: Scribblet may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through Amazon USA or Amazon Canada links at no extra cost to the reader. This researched guide does not claim firsthand testing.