Types of DMC Thread and When to Use Each

A wall of DMC thread in a needlepoint shop can be beautiful, but also overwhelming! 

The good news is that DMC threads are not as complicated as they look. Each type has its own personal use, and once you know what each one does best, choosing thread becomes a lot less intimidating. In this blog, I'll walk through the most common types of DMC thread, what makes each one different, and where each works best. We’ll also cover the pros and cons, so you can choose a thread with a more confidence and a lot less second-guessing.

DMC Stranded Cotton Embroidery Floss

This is the classic six-strand cotton floss most people recognize. It comes in hundreds of colors and is easy to find, which makes it a great option for beginners and experienced stitchers alike.

The important thing to know is that stranded cotton is divisible. That means you can separate the strands and use only the number you need. This is why you often see it associated with embroidery projects. For needlepoint, you usually use the full six strands. If your canvas is super fine, you can adjust the number of strands, but I find all six strands are necessary for full coverage.

Best for: 18 mesh canvas, small details, lettering, shading, and projects where you want a smooth cotton finish.

Why we like it: The color range is enormous. If you are trying to match a very specific school color, camp color, logo color, or “that exact shade of blue but not too blue,” DMC floss usually has an answer. It is easy to find in your local craft store, inexpensive, and great for beginners.

Watch out for: Because it is made of separate strands, it can twist or separate if you are not careful. Let your needle dangle occasionally to untwist the thread. It sounds fussy, but it is oddly satisfying.

DMC Pearl Cotton

Pearl cotton, sometimes called perle cotton, is a twisted cotton thread with a slight sheen. Unlike stranded cotton, it is not meant to be separated. You use it as it comes off the skein or ball.

DMC pearl cotton comes in different sizes. The lower the number, the thicker the thread, so size 3 is thicker than size 5. 

Best for: 13 mesh canvas, decorative stitches, bold areas, and projects where you want a clean, slightly shiny finish.

Why we like it: It behaves nicely. It has enough structure to make stitches look tidy, but it is still soft and easy to pull through the canvas.

Watch out for: Make sure the size works with your mesh. Too thick, and it will crowd the canvas. Too thin, and the canvas may show through. Some also don’t care for the overall texture, but it doesn’t bother me! 

DMC Tapestry Wool

Tapestry wool is the traditional needlepoint workhorse. It gives good coverage, wears well, and has a soft, classic finish.

Best for: Belts, pillows, ornaments, stockings, and pieces that will be handled or used often.

Why we like it: Wool is durable and forgiving. It fills the canvas nicely and gives a finished piece a timeless needlepoint look.

Watch out for: Wool can feel bulkier than cotton, so it may not be your first choice for tiny details or very precise lettering.

DMC Matte Cotton / Soft Cotton

DMC matte cotton is a non-shiny cotton thread with a soft, modern look. It is popular for needlepoint because it gives fuller coverage than stranded floss and has a clean matte finish.

Best for: 13 mesh canvas, modern designs, large color blocks, and stitchers who prefer cotton over wool.

Why we like it: It gives a polished but relaxed look. Not glossy, not fuzzy, not dramatic. Just nice.

Watch out for: It may not be stocked everywhere, so check availability before designing an entire project around it.

So, Which DMC Thread Should You Use?

Here is the simplest answer:

• For 18 mesh: Start with DMC stranded cotton or a finer thread.
• For 13 mesh: Try pearl cotton size 3, tapestry wool, or matte cotton.
• For high-use items: Wool is usually your friend.
• For detailed designs: Stranded cotton gives you more control.
• For beginners: Pick the thread that fits the mesh and feels good in your hand.

Needlepoint should not feel like a chemistry exam. If the thread covers the canvas, pulls through comfortably, and gives you the look you want, you are probably on the right track.