Functional Threads with Special Properties

Threads that add a function to the product

A thread can be more than a means of joining. Functional threads carry a property that the fabric itself does not have: colour change, cooling, insect protection, electrical conductivity, camouflage or visibility in the dark. This way an embroidery or a seam becomes part of the product's function. Polkom supplies functional threads wholesale to fashion and sportswear brands, manufacturers of mattresses and furniture, workwear and military clothing, as well as to smart textile projects.

Types of functional threads

Threads that change colour with heat

Thermochromic embroidery threads change colour when a certain temperature is reached and return to their original look when they cool down, so the effect repeats many times. Different colours have different activation temperatures. They are used for creative embroidery in fashion, decorative products, sportswear and smart textiles – for example a motif that appears from the warmth of a hand or a cup.

Cooling embroidery threads

Trilobal polyester with xylitol and erythritol applied to the surface – substances that create a cooling sensation on contact with the skin. The effect lasts up to about 20 washes, and the thread has the lustre and behaviour of a quality embroidery thread. It is suitable for lingerie, sportswear, denim, childrenswear, caps and accessories.

Insect-repellent threads

Sewing threads treated with a blend of plant extracts whose natural scent repels insects and prevents them from settling, including in hard-to-reach seams. They contain no microcapsules, permethrin or endocrine disruptors, comply with the BPR and REACH regulations and are OEKO-TEX® certified. The protection lasts up to 30 washes and remains permanent in products that are not washed. They are used in mattresses and quilting, upholstered furniture, curtains, tents and outdoor clothing.

Electrically conductive silver threads

Polyamide 6.6 threads with a silver coating and low electrical resistance. They are suitable for sensors, signal and data transmission, heating elements and electrical contacts in smart textiles, medical and protective clothing, the automotive industry and fashion. They are available in two thicknesses and require careful processing for a long service life.

Threads invisible to infrared cameras

Core-spun threads with controlled reflectance values that are not detected by infrared cameras in the 700–1200 nm range. They are available in a dark military green and in standard thicknesses for military and hunting clothing, camouflage nets, tents and tarpaulins. The polyester core guarantees a strong seam under movement and load.

Bioceramic embroidery threads

Threads with selected bioceramic minerals embedded in their structure, designed to reflect the far-infrared radiation emitted by the body back to the embroidered area. They are used in sports socks, technical sportswear, bandages and support products.

Glow-in-the-dark and reflective threads

Phosphorescent threads charge from any light source and glow green for between 1 and 8 hours in the dark. Reflective threads look silver in daylight and white when illuminated in the dark. Both types are used for embroidery and decorative seams on sportswear, childrenswear and workwear, bags and accessories. For the classic materials see the embroidery threads.

Other special threads

On request we can also offer water-soluble threads for temporary seams, as well as lyocell threads.

How to choose a functional thread

• Define the function and how it will be tested in the final product.
• Check how many washes the effect must withstand.
• Test a sample on your machine and material before series production.

Why Polkom

Polkom has over 30 years of experience as a manufacturer and supplier of accessories for fashion, furniture, footwear and bags. We help you choose a functional thread, supply samples and technical data sheets and ship throughout the EU. For flame-resistant and cut-resistant solutions see the threads for protective clothing.

How to order

Send an enquiry with the desired function, the type of product, the thickness, the colour and the quantities. Minimum quantities depend on the item – send an enquiry and you will receive exact information. See all types of threads.