ABSTRACT
This chapter will open with a brief overview of the variety of fibres used for manufacturing sewing threads as well as sewing thread types, thread construction, and thread size. The chapter will move on to consider special thread finishes such as lubricants, bonding finishes, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal finishes, water-repellent and anti-wicking finishes, as well as UV resistance. The chapter will also consider consumption calculations including digital advancements to support sewing thread consumption data, leading to a review of the latest advancements and innovations that are driving advancements in stitching threads, including the drive towards sustainable design practice, the growth in wearable technology and haptic apparel, developments in new textiles and technical textiles, sewing automation, on-demand manufacturing, and new models of sustainable manufacture to include micro-manufacturing. To provide the most current insight regarding recent and emerging advancements, key contributors include Coats Group Plc who are the world’s largest manufacturer and distributor of sewing thread and A&E Gutermann Threads and Twine, a leader in on-demand thread dyeing sytems.
