"Essential" Thread Quality?

And this is how Connecting Threads describes their thread:
"· Satin Finish-Double Mercerized for a stronger, more lustrous finish
· 100% Egyptian cotton, the highest quality cotton available
· Extra long staple produces a smoother thread with less lint
· 1200 yards! Size 50/3
· Fits standard sewing machine spindles."

Julia in MN
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allisonh wrote:
dogmom wrote:
I just got 11 spools of thread from Connecting Threads--it's their
neutral collection. Visions of quilts dance in my mind as I look at
all those yards....Then I notice that it's made in India and does not
say mercerized. Every time I've bought cloth made in India it's shrunk
like crazy and bled. What exactly is mercerized and if thread isn't,
would you still use it? Has anyone used this stuff and if so, what was
your reaction? I trust Connecting Threads but I need reassurance on
this one.


Thanks.

Dogmom


I got this off the Superior Threads web site:

"Mercerized. Today, nearly all cotton thread is mercerized. If a label
says only 'mercerized cotton,' it is probably because there is nothing
else to brag about (such as long staple or extra long staple).
Mercerizing is a process of treating cotton thread with a solution,
causing the fibers to swell. This process allows the dye to better
penetrate the fibers, thereby increasing the luster. Today, all quality
cotton thread is mercerized even if the label does not say so. Labels
can advertise only a limited amount of information and stating that the
cotton is mercerized is no longer most important."

So it sounds like it has nothing to do with bleeding or shrinkage....

Allison