Still torn between linen thread and synthetic after 15 years of binding

I started out using only linen thread because that's what my mentor in Seattle used back in the late 2000s. Switched to a synthetic blend about 5 years ago thinking it would be stronger and cheaper, and it did hold up better on a big run of 50 sketchbooks I made. But last month I pulled one of those sketchbooks out of storage and noticed the thread had a weird shine, like it was getting slick or something. Has anyone else noticed synthetic thread changing texture over time, or am I just being picky about old habits?

2 comments

2 Comments

sanchez.mia1d ago

Didn't I see a blog post from someone in the book arts guild a while back saying synthetic thread gets that slick coating after a few years from plasticizers migrating out? Could be the same thing happening to yours.

sage_perry1d ago

Wait wait wait, hold on! PLASTICIZERS migrating out? That sounds crazy! I just stopped and stared at my book for like a solid minute after reading that. I've been using synthetic thread for years on my projects because I thought it was the tough, long-lasting option. Now I'm picturing this weird chemical goo seeping out of the stitches over time, that's honestly kind of gross to think about! I guess it makes sense though, I've seen those old polyester clothes get all shiny and weird after a while sitting in storage. Man, I might have to switch back to linen or waxed cotton for my personal books after hearing this.