Quick answer

Choose Sew-All Thread for general sewing and seams that need to hold shape; choose Elastic Sewing Thread for knits, cuffs, and areas that require stretch and recovery.

Why the thread type matters for stretch

Not all sewing projects need the same thread. Standard Sew-All Thread is a polyester all-purpose thread that works for most fabrics and seams. Elastic Sewing Thread, on the other hand, is designed specifically for knits, elastic caps, and cuffs where stretch and recovery are essential.

The key difference is the material. Sew-All Thread has minimal stretch, so it holds seams firmly. Elastic Thread contains a high proportion of elastane, letting it stretch and return to shape. Choosing the wrong one can cause popped seams or a lack of give in your finished piece.

When Sew-All Thread is the better choice

Sew-All Thread from Gutermann is a reliable polyester thread for everyday sewing. It works well for woven fabrics, quilting, and seams that need to stay put. If your project doesn't require stretch, this thread gives you strong, durable stitches.

It's also available in a wide range of colors, including purple (907 Dahlia), so you can match your fabric easily. Use it for garments, home decor, and repairs where stretch isn't a factor.

When Elastic Sewing Thread is the better choice

Elastic Sewing Thread is ideal for knit-in thread for knitting and crocheting elastic caps and cuffs. It's also perfect for creating shirring or gathering on a sewing machine. The 0.5 mm thickness works with most machines and bobbins.

Because it's wound onto a sewing machine bobbin, you can use it immediately for crimping or stabilizing selected areas. It's a specialized tool for projects that need stretch and recovery, not for general seams.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Stretch and recovery: Elastic Thread stretches and returns to shape; Sew-All Thread has minimal stretch. Use Elastic Thread for projects that need give, like cuffs and shirring.
  • Strength and durability: Sew-All Thread is a strong polyester thread for seams that must hold shape; Elastic Thread is less suited for high-stress seams. Use Sew-All Thread for seams that need to stay put.
  • Ease of use: Elastic Thread comes pre-wound on a bobbin for immediate use; Sew-All Thread is on a standard spool and works with most machines. Elastic Thread is ready to go for stretch projects; Sew-All Thread is more versatile for everyday sewing.

Product facts

  • Sew-All Thread, Purple, 547 YD (500 M): Sew-All Thread from Gutermann is a purple polyester thread supplied on a single spool, holding 547 YD (500 M). This is a standard all-purpose thread for general sewing, quilting, and seams that don't need stretch.

    Sew-All Thread, Purple, 547 YD (500 M)

    Sew-All Thread, Purple, 547 YD (500 M)

  • Elastic Sewing Thread, 22 YD (20 M): Elastic Sewing Thread is 0.5 mm thick, made with a high proportion of elastane, and wound onto a sewing machine bobbin for immediate use. Its stretch and recovery make it ideal for knits, cuffs, and shirring, but it's not meant for everyday seams.

    Elastic Sewing Thread, 22 YD (20 M)

    Elastic Sewing Thread, 22 YD (20 M)

Which one fits your project?

Best for

  • General sewing, quilting, and seams that need to hold shape (Sew-All Thread)
  • Knits, elastic caps, cuffs, and shirring (Elastic Sewing Thread)

Not for

  • Stretch seams or gathering (Sew-All Thread)
  • Everyday seams or high-stress areas (Elastic Sewing Thread)