Our kits come from many different manufacturers and threads may be prepared in various ways. Some kits have the thread already sorted onto cards, so most of the work is already done for you. Even in this instance though, we recommend you carefully match up you cards with your legend before you start, and make sure you are absolutely sure which thread relates to which symbol. If it isn’t already printed on the cards, we suggest you draw the symbol on yourself.
If your kit includes the thread in bundles, here’s how we recommend you approach sorting:
• Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before you begin.
• Don’t untie all the bundles at once. Sort one hank at a time.
• Extract the obvious threads first e.g. black and white
• Sort into groups of main colours i.e. find all the blues, all the greens, all the reds etc
• Within each colour group, sort from darkest to lightest. Then match them up with the colour descriptions. A process of elimination often works best.
• Look for clues on the legend. For instance, some manufacturers list how many lengths of each colour they have provided.
• When you have successfully identified a colour tie it on a thread card or wind it onto a bobbin and label it clearly.
• Don’t start stitching until you are satisfied your threads are properly sorted.
• Never despair. You can always call us for advice.
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