Thoughts On Thread - Punch Needle Embroidery...

I have spent the last few months trying out different 

Thread...  Floss...  Perle Cotton...

I use it in Wool Applique, Hand Embroidery, 

Punch Needle Embroidery, Counted Cross Stitch

 and to Embellish my Embroidery / Sewing projects.

I have found certain threads perform better in different applications.

Three Pumpkins by Three Sheep Studio

This design is punched using Valdani Perle Cotton.

It is my favorite thread to use for Punch Needle Embroidery.

It brings depth, variation and texture to my work.

For this piece I used Valdani Perle Cotton #8.

I used the small needle in my 'Ultra Punch Needle',

at the number 2 setting.

Valdani thread is Artisan hand dyed with an emphasis 

on environmental awareness - they use lead free, 
environmentally friendly dyes.

Their colors are rich and guaranteed 100% colorfast.

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I debated using Valdani, because it is a slightly more expensive thread...

or is it ???

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Same design - two different threads...

I punched the 'Three Pumpkins' design twice, 

both very similar however, not exact.

The design on the Left is punched 

using Valdani Perle Cotton.

The design on the Right is punched 

using DMC Perle Cotton.

To achieve the same look on both projects, 

this is what I found...

Background on the Left used one color of Valdani.

 Background on the Right used four colors of DMC.

Leaves on the Left used one color of Valdani. 

Leaves on the Right used three colors of DMC. 

Stems on the Left used one color of Valdani.

Stems on the Right used two colors of DMC.

I could continue to point out additional differences in the pumpkins, 
however it was obvious -

 Valdani was Not more expensive.

I had to actually use the product to see 

and realize the results.

My Conclusion:
I was able to achieve

amazing rich color, texture and movement
using fewer Perle Cotton Ball colors, 
when working with Valdani Threads
for Punch Needle Embroidery.

Old gnarled tree... using Valdani Perle #0531

As I am working on some new Autumn Designs,

 I am loving the rich texture and movement 

that comes with using these hand dyed threads.

One of my favorite shades is Valdani #0531 - Black Nut.
(This one Perle Cotton Ball contains shades of 
black, dark brown, charcoal and grays)

It instantly gives tree branches dimension 

and brings them to life !

(and isn't that what we hope to achieve 
when we pour our time and effort into a project ? ;)

Perle Cotton Storage...

(If you missed this post)...

For a tip on organizing and storage -

go to 'Perle Cotton Storage'.

Happily stitching away...
Rose