Wholesale Cotton Threads

Cotton and mercerised threads for natural fabrics, garment-dyed products and seams with a matt, natural look – supplied wholesale by Polkom, a trims manufacturer.

Cotton threads – the natural choice for natural fabrics

Cotton threads are made from cotton fibres and are preferred for sewing cotton, linen and wool. They are soft, with a natural matt look, and withstand high ironing temperatures without melting. Because cotton takes up dye in the same way as cotton fabric, cotton threads are indispensable for garments dyed after sewing. Polkom, a manufacturer and wholesaler of garment accessories, supplies cotton threads wholesale to sewing units, natural and organic clothing brands, home textile manufacturers and ateliers.

Types of cotton thread

Mercerised cotton threads

Mercerisation is a treatment that gives cotton greater strength, smoothness and a slight silky sheen, while colours become richer. This is the most widely used type of cotton sewing thread.

Classic (unmercerised) cotton threads

With a fully matt look and a soft structure. Suitable for quilting, patchwork, basting and products with a distinctly natural character.

Cotton threads for decorative stitching

Heavier cotton threads for visible stitching and handwork, which give the product a crafted look.

Cotton-wrapped threads

Here a polyester core is wrapped in cotton. They combine the matt look of cotton with the strength of polyester and are used for jeans and workwear. You will find more about these combined versions in the sewing threads section.

Advantages of cotton threads

  • They withstand high temperatures during ironing and washing.
  • They have a natural matt or slight satin look.
  • They take up dye together with the fabric when finished garments are dyed.
  • They are soft and do not irritate the skin.
  • They suit collections built around natural materials.

Applications

  • clothing made of cotton, linen and wool;
  • garment-dyed clothing;
  • babywear and childrenswear;
  • bed linen, tablecloths and home textiles;
  • quilting, patchwork and handwork.

Thickness and machine work

Cotton threads are available in various thicknesses – from fine ones for light fabrics to heavier ones for decorative stitching. Cotton is less elastic than polyester, so it is not the best choice for jersey and stretch fabrics, where the seam needs to stretch. Adjust the thread tension and choose the needle according to the fabric to get an even, firm seam.

Colours

Cotton threads come in a wide range of colours – from natural and pastel to rich shades. Where needed, we match the shade to a fabric sample. Cotton threads pair beautifully with natural trims such as corozo buttons and cotton labels.

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 cotton threads

Send an enquiry with the type of fabric, thickness, colours and approximate quantity. You will receive a quote and, if needed, a sample. Minimum quantities depend on the article – send an enquiry and we will give you exact information. Browse all types of thread or write to us via Contacts.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

When should I use cotton thread instead of polyester?
Cotton thread is the right choice when you sew cotton, linen or wool, when the product will be ironed at high temperatures, or when the garment will be dyed after sewing. Polyester thread is stronger and more elastic, so it is better for jersey, sportswear and products with heavily loaded seams.
What does mercerised cotton thread mean?
Mercerisation is a treatment of the cotton fibres after which the thread becomes stronger and smoother and gains a slight silky sheen. Colours also look richer. Mercerised cotton thread runs through the machine more easily and gives a neater seam than untreated cotton. That is why it is the standard choice for sewing garments from natural fabrics.
Do cotton threads shrink?
Cotton can shrink slightly in the first wash at a high temperature, just like cotton fabric. When sewing natural fabrics this is usually not a problem, as the fabric and thread shrink together. If the product will be washed very hot, we will advise you on the most suitable option.
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.