Embroidery threads these days come in enormous varieties and types. They add life to different patterns with their unique color quality and sheen. Thread, like fabric, is made from either synthetic or natural fibers, or both, and each has its own appeal.

Rayon thread is smooth and has a high sheen. It comes in a wide range of colors. Polyester thread has sheen similar to rayon and comes in a wide range of colors. It's economical and colorfast and stronger.

Cotton threads are most commonly and possess a soft sheen. More preferred for hand embroidery. Silk thread is strong and stable with an unmatched beautiful sheen. It is perfect for embroidering on silk and other luxurious fabrics.

Metallic threads require more care than rayon or cotton. They are used for adding sparkling accents to embroidery designs. Then there are Special-effect embroidery threads. Each is different and is used for special effects. They may be fuzzy acrylic/wool-based type, or fluorescent neon threads. Some threads change colors when exposed to sunlight, and others glow in the dark.

Some embroidery threads have a reputation for being difficult to work with. Breakage during stitching is a common problem. In machine embroidery first thing to test is the tension of the thread. Each thread requires proper machine tension appropriate needle and supporting bobbin thread.

In hand embroidery these troubles are faced less as the embroiderer can change the tension as per the requirement of the fabric and the thread. One needs to use a needle large enough to 'open' the hole in the fabric to allow the thread to go through easily. And take manageable lengths of threads.