What to think about before choosing a system
The best way to store embroidery thread depends on how much you have, how you stitch, and how much space you can spare. Before buying anything, consider:
- How much thread you own. A few skeins need very little. A large collection benefits from a system you can search quickly.
- Whether you stitch at home or travel. Portable projects favour small boxes or project bags.
- How you like to find thread. By number, by colour family, or by project.
- Protection. Thread keeps best away from strong sunlight, damp and dust.
Common storage methods
Bobbins
Winding thread onto small cardboard or plastic bobbins is a very popular method. Each bobbin holds one colour and is labelled with the thread number. Bobbins stack neatly in a box and make it easy to see how much is left. The main cost is the time it takes to wind each skein.
Plastic bags
Resealable bags are a quick, low-cost option. Thread can stay in its skein with the label inside, and bags can be grouped by colour or project. They are less tidy for a large collection, but are useful for storing work in progress.
Floss bows and loops
Some brands and accessories let you keep skeins in a loose bundle or loop with the label attached. Thread stays in its original form, which means no winding, and the label is always on hand. These are handy for individual projects.
Clothes pegs or clips
Small pegs or clips can hold a skein or cut length together on a ring or a board. This works for a small active palette.
Drawers and boxes
Shallow drawers, craft cases and divided boxes hold bobbins or loose skeins. Compartments keep colours apart and reduce tangling. Dedicated thread storage boxes and drawers are sold by craft suppliers, or you can reuse photo storage cases or tackle boxes. If you are planning a whole stitching space, see how to set up a craft room on any budget.
Sorting: by number, colour or project
- By number makes finding a specific colour fast when you follow patterns that list thread codes. This is a common choice for cross-stitch.
- By colour suits freeform embroidery where you choose colours by eye.
- By project is useful if you start many projects and want everything together.
Many people combine methods, for example keeping an everyday colour range sorted by number and storing kits by project.
Labelling
Keep the paper band or write the number clearly on bobbins. If the label has fallen off, a thread colour card or the brand’s chart can help match it again. Using a marker on a small tag or the bobbin itself keeps the code readable.
How to arrange thread in a box
- Group thread into a logical order such as number or colour family.
- Put bobbins in rows with the labels visible from the top.
- Use dividers or small compartments for related colours.
- Keep the most used colours near the front.
- Leave a bit of room for new thread so you do not need to rearrange constantly.
Tracking your thread
Yes, there are apps and digital tools for managing embroidery thread, and many stitchers use them to record which colours they own. Availability changes over time, so search your app store for thread or floss inventory apps and check reviews. A simple spreadsheet or notes list works too: one column for thread number, one for brand and one for quantity. Keeping a short shopping list helps avoid buying duplicates.
Protecting your thread
- Avoid long exposure to direct sunlight, which can fade dyes.
- Keep it dry and away from damp.
- Use closed boxes or bags to reduce dust.
- Store metallic and specialty threads, such as those described in our metallic thread tips, so they are not squashed or kinked.
For help deciding what to buy in the first place, see choosing threads for hand embroidery.
How many strands do you use for embroidery stitches?
It depends on the pattern, fabric and look you want. Many designs use two or three strands of six-strand floss, though fewer or more are common. Always check the pattern, and test on scrap fabric.
FAQ
What is the best way to store embroidery thread?
There is no single answer. Bobbins in a divided box suit many stitchers, while bags and bows are quicker for smaller collections.
Do I need to wind all my skeins?
No. Winding is optional. It makes thread easy to organise, but you can keep skeins in their original form.