How do I use 6-stranded embroidery floss?

Embroidery floss, known as six-stranded embroidery thread, serves as a versatile cotton fiber favored by countless embroidery and cross-stitch enthusiasts globally. Its long-standing history and user-friendly nature enhance its popularity.

Fundamentals and Terminology
Numerous companies produce hand embroidery floss worldwide, including Lecien (Japan), Anchor (Europe), and DMC (France). This article focuses specifically on DMC embroidery floss, as it is readily available in the United States, where we are situated, and included in most of our embroidery kits.

Embroidery floss arrives in a skein, or bundle, secured by a label indicating the color name or code. Each manufacturer adopts its unique color naming and numbering system, but conversion charts online facilitate swapping colors among different brands. DMC's skeins contain 8 meters (8.7 yards) of cotton thread composed of 6 individual strands that can be separated. The terms "strands," "plies," or "threads" are often used interchangeably for the six fibers. When following a pattern, verify the recommended number of strands to use. If instructed to use "6 strands," it typically refers to one unseparated thread of 6 strands rather than 6 cuts (which total 36 individual plies).

Utilizing Six-Stranded Embroidery Floss
*Determining Thread Length*  
To cut a suitable length of embroidery floss, first locate the tail on the side of the skein labeled with the color code. Pulling from this end simplifies the process and minimizes tangling. 

After finding the tail, pull it to your desired length. Some stitchers prefer 18-inch cuts, while others opt for lengths up to 36 inches! Shorter cuts may lead to frequent thread shortages, whereas longer cuts risk snagging and tangling. Experimenting with different lengths helps identify what suits you best.

Separating Strands of Thread 
To separate strands, pull single plies from one end of your cut length, one at a time. If distinguishing individual strands proves challenging, roll the end of your cut thread between your fingers to aid separation. Secure the cut length loosely against your working surface with one hand while pulling the single ply out with the other.

While it is possible to extract multiple strands simultaneously, this increases the likelihood of tangling your floss. Some stitchers prefer to extract one ply at a time before combining them for threading. Others, like myself, take the risk of tangled threads and gently pull out the needed number of plies together.

Save any remaining strands for future use or another project.

You are now prepared to thread your needle!