What kind of thread should I use for DIY crossbody bags?

Jul 07, 2025

Hey there, DIY enthusiasts! If you're like me, you love the idea of creating your own unique crossbody bags. It's a fun and rewarding way to express your creativity and end up with a one-of-a-kind accessory. But one question that often pops up when you're gearing up for a DIY crossbody bag project is, "What kind of thread should I use?" Well, you're in the right place because I'm here to break it down for you. And by the way, I'm a supplier of DIY Crossbody Bags, so I've got plenty of hands-on experience with this stuff.

Understanding Thread Basics

First things first, let's talk about the basics of thread. Thread comes in different materials, thicknesses, and strengths, and each type is suited for different purposes. When it comes to DIY crossbody bags, you need a thread that can handle the stress and wear and tear that these bags will go through.

Thread Materials

Cotton Thread: Cotton thread is a popular choice for many DIY projects. It's affordable, easy to work with, and comes in a wide range of colors. However, it may not be the best option for crossbody bags if you're using heavy fabrics or if you want a thread that's extra durable. Cotton thread can break more easily under stress, especially if it's not treated.
Polyester Thread: Polyester thread is a great alternative to cotton. It's stronger, more resistant to abrasion, and has better elasticity. This makes it a good choice for crossbody bags, as it can withstand the pulling and stretching that comes with daily use. Polyester thread also holds up well to washing and doesn't fade as easily as cotton.
Nylon Thread: Nylon thread is the strongest of the three main thread materials. It's extremely durable, resistant to moisture, and has a high melting point. This makes it ideal for heavy-duty applications, such as crossbody bags made from thick leather or canvas. However, nylon thread can be a bit more difficult to work with, as it's slippery and can be hard to knot.

Thread Thickness

Thread thickness is measured in different ways, but the most common system is the Tex system. The higher the Tex number, the thicker the thread. For crossbody bags, you'll generally want to use a medium to thick thread. A thread with a Tex number between 30 and 90 is usually a good choice, depending on the fabric you're using.

Thin Thread (Tex 10 - 20): Thin thread is best for delicate fabrics or for decorative stitching. It's not suitable for crossbody bags, as it won't be strong enough to hold the fabric together.
Medium Thread (Tex 30 - 60): Medium thread is a good all-purpose thread for crossbody bags. It's strong enough to hold the fabric together, but not so thick that it's difficult to work with.
Thick Thread (Tex 70 - 90): Thick thread is ideal for heavy fabrics, such as leather or canvas. It provides extra strength and durability, but it can be a bit more challenging to sew with.

Choosing the Right Thread for Your Crossbody Bag

Now that you understand the basics of thread, let's talk about how to choose the right thread for your specific crossbody bag project.

Consider the Fabric

The type of fabric you're using is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a thread. If you're using a lightweight fabric, such as cotton or silk, a medium-weight polyester or cotton thread should be sufficient. However, if you're using a heavy fabric, such as leather or canvas, you'll need a thicker, stronger thread, such as nylon or a heavy-duty polyester.

For example, if you're making a crossbody bag from soft leather, a medium-weight nylon thread would be a good choice. It's strong enough to hold the leather together, but not so thick that it will make the stitching look bulky. On the other hand, if you're using a thin cotton fabric, a medium-weight cotton or polyester thread would be more appropriate.

Think About the Design

The design of your crossbody bag also plays a role in choosing the right thread. If you're going for a decorative look, you may want to choose a thread that contrasts with the fabric or that has a special finish, such as metallic or glow-in-the-dark. However, if you're looking for a more subtle, functional look, a thread that matches the fabric color is usually a better choice.

For instance, if you're making a crossbody bag with a lot of decorative stitching, you could use a brightly colored polyester thread to make the stitching stand out. On the other hand, if you're making a simple, classic crossbody bag, a thread that matches the fabric color will give it a more professional look.

Consider the Stitching Style

The stitching style you're using can also affect your thread choice. If you're using a straight stitch, a medium-weight thread should be sufficient. However, if you're using a decorative stitch, such as a zigzag or a buttonhole stitch, you may need a thicker thread to ensure that the stitch holds up.

For example, if you're making a crossbody bag with a lot of zigzag stitching, a thick polyester or nylon thread would be a good choice. This will ensure that the zigzag stitch doesn't come apart easily and that it looks neat and professional.

Other Factors to Consider

In addition to the fabric, design, and stitching style, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing a thread for your DIY crossbody bag.

Colorfastness

Colorfastness is the ability of a thread to retain its color when exposed to light, washing, or other environmental factors. If you're using a brightly colored thread, you'll want to make sure that it's colorfast, especially if you plan to wash your crossbody bag. Polyester and nylon threads are generally more colorfast than cotton threads.

Compatibility with Your Sewing Machine

Not all threads are compatible with all sewing machines. Before you start your project, make sure that the thread you're using is suitable for your sewing machine. Some sewing machines may require a specific type or thickness of thread, so check your machine's manual for recommendations.

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Cost

Cost is also a factor to consider, especially if you're on a budget. Cotton threads are generally the most affordable, followed by polyester and nylon threads. However, keep in mind that the cost of the thread is a small part of the overall cost of your DIY crossbody bag, so it's worth investing in a good-quality thread that will last.

Conclusion

Choosing the right thread for your DIY crossbody bag is an important step in the process. By considering the fabric, design, stitching style, and other factors, you can ensure that you choose a thread that's strong, durable, and matches your project. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced DIYer, taking the time to choose the right thread will make your crossbody bag look and perform better.

If you're interested in purchasing DIY crossbody bag kits or materials, including high-quality threads, feel free to reach out to me for more information. I'm always happy to help you with your DIY projects and answer any questions you may have. You can also check out our DIY Gift Bags and DIY Leather Purse options for more inspiration. Let's create some amazing crossbody bags together!