Organizing DMC Thread: Storage Systems That Really Work
In a nutshell: The best storage for DMC thread is the one you will actually maintain. For small collections (under 50 colors): original skeins in a flat box. Medium collections (50–200): plastic bobbins or cardboard cards in numerical order. Large collections (200+): bobbins in a box-index system with DMC numbers.
Three Levels of Storage
Small (under 50 colors)
- Original 6-strand skeins with banderoles in a flat box.
- Sorted by DMC number.
- Cost: approx. €10 for a good box.
Medium (50–200 colors)
- Plastic bobbins (skeins wound on/off).
- In numbered bobbin boxes.
- Keep the banderole or label bobbins with DMC numbers.
- Cost: approx. €30–€50.
Large (200+ colors)
- Multiple bobbin boxes with an index system.
- Colors by range (red, blue, green) or strictly by DMC number.
- Optional: Pinterest-style pegboard wall mount.
- Cost: approx. €80–€150.
Bobbins: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Thread doesn't tangle.
- Clear view of color palette.
- Easy to transport.
Cons:
- Winding takes initial effort.
- Labels disappear if not permanent.
- Plastic can electrostatically damage thread over years — overrated, but an argument for professionals.
Labeling System
- Permanent marker directly on bobbin — simple, but can rub off.
- Adhesive labels — cleaner, but more expensive.
- Wind banderole with bobbin — original label remains visible.
How to Best Sort?
- By DMC number ascending — quick to find with pattern legend.
- By color family — aesthetically pleasing, but more searching per stitch.
- Hybrid — color groups, sorted by DMC number within the group.
Tips from Experienced Stitchers
- Start small. Only buy bobbins when you have over 50 colors.
- Before each project, put the required colors in a separate project box.
- Collect scraps in a "scrap box" — for small accents and tests.
- Store dry and dark — UV fades colors.
- Check labels once per quarter.
What You Definitely Don't Need
- Expensive professional boxes with a hundred embroidery compartments — an IKEA box is sufficient.
- Attachment strings per bobbin.
- Vacuum-sealed storage.
Collecting starts with the first set
Complete kits contain all the colors of the design — your first thread assortment starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many DMC colors do you need?
Beginners 20–40. Experienced stitchers 100–300. There are over 500+ DMC colors in total.
Should I wind thread onto bobbins?
Sensible from about 50 colors upwards. Before that, original skeins are sufficient.
What's the fastest way to sort?
By DMC number. Pattern legends list colors by number.
Does DMC thread yellow?
Yes, if exposed to direct sunlight for years. Virtually never in dark storage.
Do I need expensive storage boxes?
No. Simple plastic boxes from IKEA or a craft store work just as well.
Summary
Sort DMC thread by DMC number in a flat box (small), on bobbins in a bobbin box (medium), or in an index system (large). Label reliably, keep dry and dark, and don't worry about expensive professional solutions. Good organization saves minutes per project and calms the sorting brain.