Yes, you can use nylon thread in a sewing machine — but “nylon thread” covers a few very different products, and using the wrong one for the job (or the wrong settings) causes most of the trouble people run into. Here’s what each type is good for and how to sew with it.
The three kinds of nylon thread
- Clear monofilament (“invisible”) nylon — a single fine filament, great for invisible hems, quilting, and attaching trims where you don’t want stitches to show. It’s slippery and can be brittle, so use a fine needle and lower your top tension.
- Bonded nylon — thick and very strong, made for upholstery, bags, leather, and outdoor gear. Wonderful strength, but it’s heavy: use a topstitch or heavy needle, a longer stitch, and make sure your machine can handle it (lightweight machines may struggle).
- All-purpose nylon — behaves much like polyester thread for everyday sewing.
Sewing with it: the two things to remember
Heat: nylon is heat-sensitive — a hot iron can melt or weaken it, so press on a low setting and avoid ironing directly over monofilament. Tension: nylon is springier than cotton, so back off the top tension and test on a scrap until the stitch sits flat. Match the needle to the thread weight — fine needle for monofilament, heavy needle for bonded — and you’ll have no trouble.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use nylon thread in a regular sewing machine?
Yes. Fine monofilament and all-purpose nylon work in any machine; heavy bonded nylon needs a machine and needle that can handle the thickness. Lower the tension and test first.
Does nylon thread melt?
It can — nylon is heat-sensitive, so press on a low setting and avoid ironing directly over invisible monofilament thread.
What needle should you use with nylon thread?
A fine needle for thin monofilament, and a topstitch or heavy needle for thick bonded nylon. Matching the needle to the thread weight prevents skipped stitches and breakage.
