Embroidery thread often differs widely, coming in many different fiber types, colors and weights.
Threads for hand embroidery include:[1] Threads for machine embroidery are usually of polyester or rayon (less often cotton or silk).
Threads, like textiles, can contain compounds that may be harmful to humans.
Many dyes have been shown to be allergenic and in some cases carcinogenic.
[8] Testing for the presence of these dyes, and other residual substances, can be done at many commercial laboratories.