Conductive Thread Overview

Back in 2004 when I first became fascinated with e-textiles, there were virtually no resources to purchase conductive thread commercially. I was fortunate enough to be a graduate student at the time and convinced manufacturers out of my sheer curiosity to mail me samples of their spools of conductive thread. Now in 2009 there is a growing number of threads available commercially and if I have my way :-), soon your local craft and hobby stores will be carrying small affordable spools. I get a lot of questions regarding which conductive thread I prefer or use. Unfortunately there is no ONE ideal thread — it really depends on what you are trying to accomplish. That being said, I have diligently created a review of all the threads I have tinkered with to share with all of you. This list will be updated as I continue to experiment with new materials. Next will be my review on the fabrics — so stay tuned. I hope this answers most of your questions. Analysis below (also can be found under Resources).

Everything you ever wanted to know about conductive thread! Following information below is an analysis of commercially-available conductive thread. I list relative stats and all the pros and cons of working with the thread from my own personal experience.

Silver Plated Nylon 117/12 x 2ply

Great light-weight thread but due to its moderate resistance I recommend limiting the length of your traces. This thread has a unique property of changing its resistance depending on whether it’s stretched or loose.

Thread Specs
Resistance: ~ 75-85ohm/foot (when stretched/sewn) 1.2 -1.8K loose.
Thread Weight: Fine
Manufacturer: = Shieldex
Quantity: 1oz Spool (about 150 yds)
Where to Buy: $16.95 @ LessEMF.com | $19.95 @ Sparkfun

Thread Analysis
Bobbin thread= yes
Top Thread = no
Hand Stitch = yes but a little difficult because thread is fine.
Fraying = Light
Resistance = Medium

Silver Plated Nylon 234/34 x 4ply

Low resistance thread but it’s really thick and tends to fray heavily.

Thread Specs
Resistance: ~ 14 ohms/foot
Thread Weight: Thick
Manufacturer: = Shieldex
Quantity: 2.5 oz Spool (about 190 yards)
Where to Buy: $19.95 @ Sparkfun

Thread Analysis
Bobbin thread= yes
Top Thread = no
Hand Stitch = yes
Fraying = Heavy
Resistance = Low

Conductive Thread from Lame Lifesaver

Overall a good solid medium-weight thread with nominal resistance and minimal fraying.

Thread Specs
Resistance: ~ 30-35 ohms/foot
Thread Weight: Medium
Manufacturer: = Unknown
Quantity: spool about 200 yards
Where to Buy: ~ $17.95 US @ Lame Lifesaver

Purchase 10ft Sample of Lame Lifesaver conductive thread ($5)