Description
Mandarin Floss
Are you looking for a thread that is a brighter alternative to cotton, but not as bright as silk thread? Something between the plain look of cotton but less than the cost of silk? Then Mandarin Floss is for you. This is a beautiful 100% bamboo thread, which means it is semi-matte. It is softer than cotton floss and has many of the qualities of silk—yet it’s strong, easy to use, less expensive, and doesn’t pill. Great for backgrounds. It’s an all-purpose thread; you can use it in cross stitch, needlepoint, and embroidery.
- 100% Bamboo
- semi-matte finish
- 20 yards on a card
- Hand washable, test first
- Available in solid and variegated colors
Suggested coverage
In needlepoint:
- 4 plies on 18-mesh needlepoint canvas
- 6 plies on 14-mesh needlepoint canvas
In cross stitch:
- 2 plies on 14-count Aida, or over two on 28-count linens
- 1 ply on 18-count Aida, or over two on 32-count linens
Review from Needle Nook of La Jolla shop
“Use wherever you would a cotton floss, strand for strand. Ply up or down to suit your needs. It lays better than cotton because it is softer and yet is still quite strong. You can use slightly longer stitching lengths since it wears better too. It is less costly than silk but has many silk-like properties. Its semi-matte finish doesn’t overpower your other stitches. Most matte threads lines have gone off the market and Mandarin floss works well as a substitute. Blends well with metallic filament for cross stitching. Great for French Knots, Turkey Work, tassels and twisted cords.”
Stitching tips for any thread
- Use a new needle when stitching with Mandarin Floss, one with a smooth, perfect eye, to keep the thread from snagging
- Stitch with 15 to 18-inch lengths, not longer lengths, to keep the thread looking the best from first stitch to last





