Yesterday I got stuck into the last projects for the book – a set of hanging ornaments. I had some different colours to use, some of which were DMC and some were Presencia threads. Both were pearl 8.
The difference was quite pronounced. DMC is marginally thinner, and much more smooth. Presencia is marginally thicker and much fluffier. Just looking at the balls together, there appears to be little difference, but when you actually try working with them, the differences become apparent.
I much preferred working with the DMC. It gave finer wrapped bars, and I know from previous days that it also gives finer bullions, though I didn’t work any bullions yesterday.
I am interested in trying some Anchor pearl also to see what the difference is there, but I’m not sure that I actually know of anyone who stocks Anchor pearl! (I don’t even know that they make it, or if they do, whether their distributor brings it into Australia, which is probably more to the point!)
I think I’ll do a bit of ringing around this morning, and see what I can get my hands on. Getting the right colours is going to be particularly interesting!
White Threads is the blog of Yvette Stanton, the author, designer, publisher behind Vetty Creations' quality needlework books and embroidery products.
The subtle differences between different manufacturers’ products can make a surprising difference, can’t they!
They certainly can!
I’ve used an Anchor perle, but its been a while, so I don’t want to make any comparison statements. It is readily available in the USA.
How about trying Chameleon perle? I find it lovely to work with, for counted work projects. Also there is the Cosmo perle – I’ve only used the 5, for making temari, but I know you have used it before (not sure if it comes in 8 though???).
Thanks Kathryn. In Australia, the Anchor distributors have whittled the selection of products available down to practically nothing, and are not interested in being helpful. I’d say Anchor has no future here in Australia.
Great suggestions Michelle. In any other situation, I’d probably follow up Chameleon or Cosmo, but in this instance I need specific colours that I’m pretty sure they won’t have. And when its to go in a book, you have to suggest threads that are readily available around the world. So many things to consider!
Hi Yvette,
Anchor is nearly non-existant in Canada too.
I get mine from Italy as they have the best selection though they tell me that Anchor has started to drasticallly cut colour selection there too.
Elena stocks Anchor pearl and she’s fast and reliable.
http://www.italian-needlecrafts.com/
IMHO Anchor thread is superior to DMC especially in the pearl cottons!
Thanks Jeanine. Very interesting information! I have dealt with Elena in the past, and her service was excellent.