Threads for the Automotive Industry

Technical polyamide and polyester threads for seats, steering wheels, dashboards and upholstery – strength, UV resistance and stable colour, supplied wholesale by Polkom.

Technical threads for car interiors

Threads for the automotive industry work in some of the toughest conditions any textile seam faces. Seats, steering wheels, dashboards, door panels and armrests are used daily for years and endure abrasion, tension, sunlight and wide temperature swings. That is why technical threads with high strength, UV resistance and stable colour are used here. Polkom, a manufacturer and wholesaler of garment accessories, supplies technical threads wholesale to car interior manufacturers, upholstery workshops and custom trimmers for cars, motorcycles and boats.

Types of automotive thread

Polyamide (nylon) threads

Extremely strong and elastic, with high abrasion resistance. Bonded polyamide threads have a coating that binds the filaments together, reduces needle friction and prevents fraying when sewing thick leather and faux leather. They are used for heavily loaded seams in seats and upholstery.

Polyester threads

Polyester is more UV-resistant than polyamide and keeps its colour during long exposure to sunlight. That is why it is preferred for visible seams on dashboards, upper door panels, convertible roofs and exterior parts.

UV-stabilised and specially treated threads

For parts exposed to strong light and high temperatures, threads with additional anti-ageing and anti-fade treatment are used.

Thicknesses and decorative stitching

Car interiors use both medium threads for structural seams and heavy threads for visible decorative stitching – single, double or French seams on seats and steering wheels. A heavy decorative seam in a contrasting colour is a recognisable feature of sporty and luxury interiors. The choice of thickness depends on the material, the machine and the visual effect you want.

Applications

  • car seats and upholstery;
  • steering wheels, gear knobs and armrests;
  • dashboards and interior door panels;
  • bus, truck and camper van interiors;
  • motorcycle seats and boat upholstery.

Colours

Besides classic black, grey and beige tones, we offer contrasting colours for decorative stitching – red, orange, yellow, blue and more. We can match the shade to a sample of the leather or upholstery. Colour consistency is especially important when one product is sewn from several thread batches.

How to choose the right thread

  • Determine whether the seam is structural or decorative.
  • Consider whether the part will be exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Match the thread thickness to the needle and the machine.
  • Test a sample on the actual material before bulk production.

For footwear, bags and leather goods, see also our footwear and leather threads.

Why Polkom

  • More than 30 years of experience as a manufacturer and wholesaler of garment accessories.
  • Large stock and more than 10,000 articles from a single supplier.
  • Advice on thread type, thickness and needle.
  • Fast sampling, competitive prices and delivery across the EU.

How to order

Send an enquiry with the type of material, the application, the thickness you need and the colours. You will receive a quote and a sample for testing. Minimum quantities depend on the article – send an enquiry and we will give you exact information. See all types of thread or get in touch via Contacts.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is polyamide or polyester thread better for car seats?
For structural seams in seats, bonded polyamide threads are often used because of their high strength and abrasion resistance. For visible seams exposed to the sun – for example on the dashboard and upper door panels – polyester is preferred, as it is more UV-resistant and keeps its colour.
What is bonded thread?
Bonded thread has a special coating that binds the individual filaments into one. This makes the thread less prone to fraying, helps it pass more smoothly through the needle and dense material, and lets it withstand higher loads. That is why it is used for leather, faux leather, upholstery and technical products.
Are these threads also suitable for furniture and boat upholstery?
Yes. Technical threads for car interiors are also used successfully for furniture upholstery, motorcycle seats and boats. For exterior parts exposed to sun and moisture, we recommend UV-stabilised threads. Describe the application in your enquiry so we can suggest the right article.
Custom offer

Looking for a specific model, colour or size?

Send us an inquiry with a description or photo – you will receive an offer, samples and a production lead time.