A+ Giveaway: Aurifil Thread

For a long time, I have used Masterpiece thread by Superior, and it has been a superior product. Then I started noticing talk about Aurifil threading its way through the quilt blogging community.

Okay. I'm done trying to be clever with the wording.

I admit to being rather skeptical that Aurifil could impress me enough to consider making a change. After all, I was already spending $8+ per spool for Masterpiece, something that always made me gulp any time I stocked up. So why would I consider spending $10+ for Aurifil?

Masterpiece has 600 yards per spool, Aurifil has 1422. Now you know I'm no mathlete, but I could figure out that Aurifil is actually more economical.

I put it to the test. I tried three of the five different weights that come in each sample pack. I'm used to piecing with two-ply 50 wt, so I tried that first. It sews beautifully and leaves a nice flat seam.

Next I tried the 40 wt for machine applique. I should mention that this was one of the first times I have done machine applique, so I was learning how to do that and testing the thread at the same time. The thread has a beautiful sheen to it.

(taken at night, so the lighting is a bit off)

Next I tried the 28 wt to topstitch the handles on the bag I was making, a lovely variegated yellow, because I wanted the topstitching to have a bit more visual impact. I was already using a denim needle so there was no problem with the heavier weight, but a denim needle isn't necessary--I think Aurifil recommends a topstitch 90/14.

The only two threads I have not yet tried are the 12 weight, which would be a great weight for doing big stitch, in place of No. 8 perle cotton, and 12 weight wool, which would be lovely on a felted wool project--something for the holidays maybe?

Aurifil comes in every color you can think of.

I still think Superior thread makes a wonderful product. They also have a huge amount of thread info on their site and I highly recommend going there if you have any questions related to thread.

I have been happy so far with Aurifil. Now five of you have a chance to win a sample pack of your own! Leave a comment telling me what color and thread weight spool is on your sewing machine right now.  The ever-so-helpful Random Number Generator will work its magic on Thursday, 6 pm PDT.

Oh, and this may sound slightly picky, but a definite selling point, in my opinion. I hate those sticky labels that are on one end of a spool of thread, covering up the hole on the end. I have never figured out why the hole can't be unobstructed on both ends.

Thank you, Aurifil! You got extra credit points before I even filled my first bobbin!

L: Aurifil, open on both ends

R: Gutermann, after I had to tear through one end