How to use the thread brand converter
- Choose the thread brand you already have, such as Madeira Polyneon or Isacord Polyester.
- Type the thread number, or start typing the color name and pick it from the suggestions.
- Review the closest matches. Each brand shows its best match first, followed by two alternatives.
- Use the brand buttons to show only the thread lines you stock, then copy the thread number you need.
The page address updates as you search, so you can bookmark or share a specific conversion.
Thread brands included
The converter covers 24 thread and floss lines with 7641 colors in total:
| Thread line | Colors |
|---|---|
| Anchor | 420 |
| Brother Embroidery Thread | 61 |
| Coats Alcazar | 500 |
| Coats Sylko (USA) | 303 |
| DMC | 456 |
| Fil-Tec Glide | 212 |
| Floriani Polyester | 286 |
| Gunold Polyester | 300 |
| Gutermann Creativ Dekor | 200 |
| Hemingworth | 294 |
| Isacord Polyester | 398 |
| Janome | 78 |
| Madeira Burmilana | 121 |
| Madeira Polyneon | 349 |
| Madeira Rayon | 357 |
| Marathon Polyester | 301 |
| Marathon Rayon | 317 |
| Mettler Poly Sheen | 351 |
| Robison-Anton Polyester | 447 |
| Robison-Anton Rayon | 419 |
| Simthread Polyester | 107 |
| Sulky Polyester | 905 |
| Sulky Rayon | 289 |
| WonderFil Polyester | 170 |
How the matches are calculated
Every thread color in the dataset has a digital RGB value. The converter turns those values into the CIELAB color space, which is designed to reflect how people perceive color differences, and then scores every thread in the other brands with the CIEDE2000 (ΔE) formula. A lower ΔE means the two colors are closer.
| ΔE score | Label shown | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Below 2 | Very close | Generally hard to tell apart on screen. |
| 2 to 5 | Close | A small difference that shows up side by side. |
| 5 to 10 | Noticeable difference | Visibly different. Compare the alternatives before choosing. |
| Above 10 | Distant | The brand has no close equivalent for this color. |
Why a digital match is not an official equivalent
These results are nearest-color matches based on published digital RGB values, not manufacturer cross-reference charts. Real thread color also depends on fiber and finish, since rayon and polyester reflect light differently, as well as on dye lots and on how your screen is calibrated. For logos, uniforms and bulk production, check the match against a physical shade card or stitch a test swatch before committing.
Starting from a logo or brand color?
If you have a hex code rather than a thread number, use the Hex to Thread Color Converter to find the closest thread. When your colors are ready, request a custom patch quote and include the thread numbers with your artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these official manufacturer conversion charts?
No. The converter calculates the nearest color in each brand from published digital RGB values. Manufacturer cross-reference charts may pair threads differently, so treat the results as a starting point and confirm important colors with a physical shade card.
Why are there three matches for each brand?
The closest digital match is not always the best choice once the thread is stitched. Showing the next two nearest colors lets you compare options, for example when the first match is a different fiber or finish from the thread you are replacing.
Can I convert a Pantone or hex color to thread?
This tool starts from a thread number. If you have a hex code, use the Hex to Thread Color Converter. Pantone values need to be converted to a hex code first.
Where does the thread color data come from?
The palettes come from the open-source Ink/Stitch embroidery project, released under the GPLv3 license.
Is the thread brand converter free?
Yes. It is free to use and does not require an account.
