After beginning crocheters master the basic stitches and complete a few projects, many crocheters next start learning to crochet with threads instead of yarn. Unlike yarns, crochet threads can be made into intricate patterns and delicate projects like lace and edging. Crochet threads can also be made into jewelry and accessories. Not all crochet threads are created equal, however. To find out the best crochet thread for your next project, we’ve reviewed the most popular brands on the market:
The Best Crochet Threads Reviewed
Aunt Lydia’s
Aunt Lydia’s ranks by far as the most popular crochet thread in the United States. Manufactured by Red Heart yarns, it’s been one of the most trusted brands of crochet thread for more than 100 years. Made with high luster mercerized cotton crochet thread, it’s available in a variety of different colors perfect for all types of crochet projects.
Pros:
- Available in four different sizes.
- At 300-400 yards per ball, it’s one of the most economical choices.
- It comes in solids, neutral shades, metallics, and some blends.
- Consistently performs on a variety of different projects.
Cons:
- Colors vary quite a bit between dye lots. Make sure to purchase all of the yardages you’ll need for a complete project at once.
Golo
Golo recognizes that not all crocheters have the same skill level. That’s why they rank all five different sizes of crochet thread from beginner to ‘high-end’ meant for experienced crocheters. Each ball comes with about 250 yards of 100% cotton with a smooth, silky texture. The high-quality three-strand thread works into exquisitely finished projects like tablecloths, florals, and jewelry.
Pros:
- High quality 100% long-staple cotton thread.
- A variety of on-trend colors and traditional solids.
- Different sizes of threads rated by experience to help beginners successfully learn crochet thread projects.
Cons:
- Not widely available at craft stores. Mostly available for online purchase.
- Smaller yardage means it’s more expensive than other popular brands.
Red Heart Classic
Also from Red Heart Yarns, Classic crochet thread offers what the name suggests, a classic quality multi-use crochet thread. The 1000 yard ball is perfect for larger projects like tablecloths, doilies, and bedspreads. It’s the crochet thread that’s been trusted by grandmothers for decades and will continue to offer crafters quality and affordability for years to come.
Pros:
- Quality 100% mercerized cotton crochet thread.
- Extra-large thread balls of 1000 yards make it more affordable than other brands.
- Easy to use and trusted for generations of crocheters.
Cons:
- Fewer color choices than other brands.
- Better for home furnishings, may not be the best for jewelry, florals, and other handiwork.
Thread Art Crochet Art Threads
Thread Art has been a popular name with crafters, quilters, and crocheters alike for many years. Their line of crochet threads come in 27 different colors, perfect for a variety of accessories, fashion, and home decor. With two popular sizes (US 3 and 10), they offer options for beginner crocheters and more advanced techniques. Each ball weighs about 50 grams and has approximately 175 yards of 3-ply 100% cotton thread.
Pros:
- Crocheters love the variety of bright colors and silky, smooth finish.
- Affordable and frequently sold in packs of three or six balls.
- Matching serger, quilting, and embroidery threads for multi-mode craft projects.
Cons:
- Only available in two sizes.
- Some users find the sizing slightly different than other mass-market crochet threads. Thread Art recommends a size 7 crochet hook.
Bernat Handicrafter Crochet Thread
Instead of 100% cotton, trusted yarn manufacturer, Bernat manufactures a 100% acrylic crochet thread. These superfine threads have a unique texture and shine that many crocheters prefer over cotton. It’s well suited for garments, home decor items, and accessories like earrings, necklaces, and rings. Machine washable and durable, it’s not subject to the fraying or pilling that may occur with cotton.
Pros:
- 100% acrylic crochet thread, an alternative to other cotton options.
- Each ball is approximately 370 yards, making it comparable in price to other brands.
- Bernat products are trusted and widely available online and at craft stores.
Cons:
- Acrylic threads have a different texture. Crocheters familiar with working cotton crochet threads may need to practice some stitches to maintain the same tension.
LE PAON Crochet Thread
For crocheters who have never worked with crochet thread, the LE PAON crochet thread kit may be the best choice. The kit comes with 15 different crochet thread balls in a rainbow of colors along with a free e-book with common crochet stitches and beginner projects. The 100% long-staple cotton has a pearly sheen making it accessible for wearables like earrings, rings, and garments. Each of the 15 different balls contains approximately 10 grams or 95 yards of crochet thread. It’s enough to try the hobby without having to commit a lot of expense.
Pros:
- The kit of crochet threads in a rainbow of different colors.
- Depending on tension, threads work well for projects requiring size 8 to size 10 thread.
- It comes with an e-book to help learn stitches and make simple patterns.
Cons:
- Small 10-gram ball size may not be suitable for larger projects like tablecloths or bedding.
- Some users report differences in thread colors across kits; recommended to purchase the entire project length at once.
- Likely meant as an introduction to using crochet thread rather than a regular staple in your yarn stash.
Other Tips When Buying Crochet Thread
Beyond the best brands of croche thread, there are a few more things you’ll want to consider before you make your purchase. Ask these questions:
- What size crochet thread do I need? There’s one confusing thing about crochet threads that can throw off purchasing. The bigger the size crochet thread (e.g., size 5 vs. size 30), the smaller the thread. Size 5 crochet thread is thicker than the size 30 thread. Although it seems confusing, the best way to make sure you purchase the right crochet thread is to make sure you carefully read the pattern. If you’re working from scratch without a pattern or just beginning to learn the stitches, start with a thicker crochet thread or a lower sized number.
- Do I have the right crochet hook? Crochet threads require smaller crochet hooks sizes, like C, D, and E. Make sure you have the right hook for the type of crochet thread you purchase. Similarly, because the threads are so delicate, it’s recommended to choose a steel crochet hook over plastic or aluminum.
- How much crochet thread do I need? As with buying yarn for any crochet or knitting project, it’s best to purchase enough crochet thread for the entire project you intend to make. Buying across dye lots can result in mismatched colors or inconsistencies that don’t appear until the finished project. If you’re unsure about how much crochet thread you’ll need, buy an extra ball or two and save it for a future project.