Color cards
Color charts are a practical aid when it comes to choosing yarn colors with confidence. A good thread color chart shows you shades, color gradations and numbers so that you can match fabrics and threads exactly. Trying things out in advance is particularly useful for embroidery work and visible sewing - this way you avoid unpleasant surprises after sewing.
What are color charts suitable for?
Color charts are suitable for anyone who works with threads: for example, for machine embroidery, overlock sewing, decorative seams or volume threads. They help you to find the right thread color for contrasting or tone-on-tone sewing and to estimate the appropriate thickness and surface. Especially when using different types of thread (embroidery thread, overlock thread, bulk thread or fine overlock thread), this makes it easier to decide which thread suits the project.
How to use a color chart correctly
- Use daylight for comparison, artificial light distorts colors.
- Place the thread sample directly on the fabric or sew a short stitch sample to check the sheen and opacity.
- Pay attention to color numbers and make a note of the right shade for later.
- Consider thread texture: matte, shiny or fluffy threads look different on fabrics.
- If color and wash fastness are important, test a sample with washing and ironing.
Why a physical color chart is useful
Screens show colors differently - a printed color chart gives you the most reliable orientation. It makes differences in sheen, thread thickness and color depth visible and is a handy reference for future projects. Color charts are also helpful if you want to compare several types of yarn, as the same color numbers can look different with different types of yarn.
At your Stoffschwester you will find color charts for different types of yarn and can get advice on which chart is best for your project. Order the color card that suits your project or come by and compare on site - so you can sewing with the right color and more fun later.