When ordering cotton sewing threads wholesale, state the type of cotton (mercerised or not), the thickness by ticket number, the packaging (cones or spools), the colours matched to a sample and the approximate quantity for each colour. Also describe the fabric and the machines. This way the supplier can offer the exact article, a sample and a quote without unnecessary correspondence.
Who buys cotton sewing threads wholesale
Cotton threads are a specialised product used more narrowly than polyester ones. Typical customers are:
- garment factories producing clothing from cotton and linen;
- natural and organic clothing brands;
- manufacturers of baby and children's clothing;
- manufacturers of bed linen, tablecloths and kitchen textiles;
- patchwork and quilting ateliers;
- factories that garment-dye finished clothing.
What to include in an inquiry for cotton sewing threads wholesale
A well-prepared inquiry saves time for both sides. Include:
| Parameter | Example information |
|---|---|
| Cotton type | mercerised, untreated, glacé for hand sewing |
| Thickness | ticket 120 for main seams, ticket 40 for visible ones |
| Packaging | cones for industrial machines or spools |
| Colours | fabric sample, shade card number or Pantone reference |
| Quantity | approximate, by colour and thickness |
| Fabric and product | for example linen shirts, cotton bed linen |
| Machines | lockstitch, overlock, coverstitch, quilting |
| Post-treatment | dyeing, enzyme washing, bleaching |
| Delivery | country, address, deadlines that matter to you |
How to determine the quantity you need
Thread consumption depends on the stitch type, fabric thickness and the number of seams in the style. Overlock and coverstitch seams use considerably more thread than a straight stitch, because they work with several threads at once. The most accurate approach is to measure consumption on one sewn sample or take it from the history of previous runs with a similar style. Add a reserve for samples, machine set-up and breakages. For a new style for which you have no data, share the pattern and seam types in your inquiry – we will help you with an approximate estimate.
Do not order too much stock of rare colours. Cotton thread does not deteriorate quickly, but over the years it loses some of its strength, especially if it is not stored properly.
Cones or spools
For industrial machines, the standard is a cone with a long length of thread. It is placed on a stand behind the machine and allows long working periods without changing. Small spools are convenient for ateliers, samples and colours you need only a little of. Wholesale, it is usually more economical to buy on cones, because packaging is a smaller share of the price per metre of thread. For colours you use rarely, consider smaller packaging so that cones do not sit for years – old cotton thread loses strength.
How to choose the colours
- Send a fabric sample – a physical piece is the most reliable reference.
- Compare in daylight – artificial lighting distorts the shade.
- Choose half a tone darker – in the seam, thread looks lighter than on the cone.
- Consolidate colours – a few basic neutral shades cover a large share of styles and reduce stock.
- Note the batch – when reordering, state the article and colour number.
Samples before production
Before the first large order, request a sample of the specific article and colour. Make a test piece with it:
- sew on the same machine and with the same needle you will use in production;
- wash the test piece according to the care instructions and iron it;
- check the colour, shrinkage, lint in the machine and breakages at speed;
- if the garment is dyed, dye the test piece too.
The approved sample becomes the reference for subsequent deliveries.
What affects the price
The price of cotton sewing threads wholesale is not fixed and depends on several factors:
- the type of cotton and treatment – mercerised and gassed cotton is more expensive than untreated;
- the thickness and length of thread in the package;
- the type of packaging – cone or spool;
- the number of colours and whether the colour is standard or matched to a sample;
- the total quantity of the order;
- delivery and destination.
For an exact price, send a request for a quote with the parameters from the table above.
Storing threads in the warehouse
Cotton threads are a natural material and are affected by storage conditions. To preserve their strength and colour:
- store cones in closed cartons or cabinets, away from direct sunlight;
- avoid damp rooms – moisture leads to stains and mould on cotton;
- do not leave cones near radiators and heaters, which dry out the fibres;
- organise by article, colour and batch so that different batches are not mixed in one order;
- use older cones first.
Well-stored cotton thread performs predictably and does not surprise you with breakages in the middle of a run.
Minimum quantities
Minimum quantities depend on the article, colour and packaging. Standard colours from stock are usually supplied more flexibly than specially matched shades. Send an inquiry and we will give you exact information for the specific thread.
Ordering together with other accessories
Most brands and factories order threads together with buttons, zips and labels for the same collection. This way the colours are coordinated in one go and there is one delivery. If the collection also includes jersey or synthetic fabrics, add polyester sewing threads for the overlock and coverstitch machines to the order.
Why Polkom
Polkom is a Bulgarian manufacturer and wholesaler of garment accessories based in Sofia with over 30 years of experience. Our range of cotton threads includes mercerised threads in various thicknesses and colours, and our overall catalogue includes over 10,000 articles. We offer fast sampling, advice on choosing thread and needle, and delivery across the EU. Send an inquiry via our contact page or see all types of thread.










