What’s the Difference Between Cross-Wound and Stacked Thread?

Do you know that sewing thread can be wound onto spools in two different ways?

And that how you place your thread on your sewing machine can directly affect how smoothly it sews?

Understanding the difference between cross-wound and stacked thread can help prevent issues like thread catching, tension problems, and even thread breakage.

The Two Types of Thread Winding

Stacked Thread:

Stacked thread is wound horizontally around the spool, with the thread sitting parallel to the spool.

This type of thread is typically found on smaller spools and some specialty threads.

Cross-Wound Thread:

Cross-wound thread is wound in a criss-cross (zigzag) pattern, forming an “X” shape up and down the spool.

This is commonly seen on larger spools, and generally used by Gutermann thread.

Why Thread Position Matters on Your Sewing Machine

If you’ve ever experienced:

• Thread catching

• Uneven tension

• Thread snapping

…the way your thread is positioned on the spool pin may be the cause.

How to Use Stacked Thread Correctly

Stacked thread should be placed on a vertical spool pin.

The thread should leave the spool at a right angle, following the direction of how it is wound.

This allows the thread to unwind smoothly without catching on the grooves at the end of the spool.

Placing stacked thread on a horizontal spool pin can cause the thread to catch on the end of the spool. This often leads to tension issues as the thread tightens, and may eventually snap.

How to Use Cross-Wound Thread Correctly

Cross-wound thread works best when the thread comes off the end of the spool.

It can be used on a horizontal spool pin or a vertical spool pin, provided the pin is positioned low enough at the back of the machine so that the thread feeds from the top.

Use a Spool Holder

When using cross-wound thread on a horizontal spool pin, always use a spool holder (spool cap).

• Choose the spool holder closest in size to your thread spool

• Push it firmly against the spool

This prevents the spool from wobbling or the thread slipping off the pin whilst sewing.

If the spool holder is too loose, the thread can fall between the spool and the holder. This causes the thread to catch, tighten, and potentially snap, leading to tension problems during sewing.

Overview

Stacked thread → vertical spool pin

Cross-wound thread → horizontal spool pin (with spool holder)

Correct positioning helps:

• Prevent thread catching

• Maintain even tension

• Improve stitch quality

Understanding this small detail can make a big difference to your sewing experience.