review // artiste variegated floss from hobby lobby

When it comes to embroidery floss, I'm a little particular. This really should be no surprise, as it's one of the supplies that I use most often in my work. It's important!

DMC floss is my first choice. I like the feeling of the floss, the way it stitches, the nice sheen, the color range, the price...I could go on. Plus, when I've had the opportunity to work with them (I designed a few patterns for their blog and mentor program), they've been an absolute delight.

I've tried other brands, and although I find them acceptable, nothing has caused me to change over. In fact, sometimes I'm hesitant to try other embroidery threads because I expect to be disappointed, especially when there's hype. And of course, when it comes to "off-brands" of floss, I'm always leery. Have you stitched with the cheap packs of "craft" floss? Don't waste your money.



It was with this "avoid the non-name-brand embroidery floss" attitude that I approached Artiste floss from Hobby Lobby. Now, I love Hobby Lobby, but I was unsure of their ability to produce something with which I would be happy to stitch. But the colors were so pretty! In open stock, they only had these variegated shades that look similar to DMC's Color Variations line.



Thinking that this is a house brand of floss, I was expecting a good price, but it's about the same as DMC. Instead of deterring me, I found this reassuring. Maybe the price tag would mean that it's a better quality? I took a chance...




...and I was happy with the results! My first stitching with Artiste floss was this Just Stay Calm embroidery. The threads didn't tangle much at all, nor did the floss show wear or pilling. I even used extra-long strands to see how it would hold up! This is definitely not your standard off-brand embroidery thread, and I'm pleased to say that I enjoyed working with it.



In the big picture, I won't use Artiste all the time, mainly because I don't use variegated floss all that often. But when I need colors like these, I'll definitely be heading to Hobby Lobby. Plus, who can resist colors with such great names and blends?

Oh, and I do want to point out that they offer bulk packs of similar Artiste floss for just $5.99. I haven't stitched with that, and looking at the skeins side by side, I'm not confident that it's the same quality. If you've used those, I'd love to hear about your experience!



Pleasant stitching and pretty colors? Hobby Lobby gets my recommendation for these happy skeins of embroidery floss!