Embroidery Thread
Colour Chart

The UK’s most complete reference for Madeira, Isacord and Gunold embroidery thread colours. At, Custom Embroidered Patches UK , browse codes, hex values, and patch suitability, all in one place.

200+Thread Colours
3Major Brands
12Colour Families
FreeNo Sign-up Needed

How to Use This Chart

Each swatch shows the thread brand code, approximate hex value, and colour family. Click any swatch to see full specs. Copy the hex code for digital proofing, or note the thread number to reference when ordering.

  • Click a swatch to open full details
  • Click hex code to copy to clipboard
  • Filter by brand (Madeira / Isacord / Gunold)
  • Search by name or code number

About These Thread Brands

Professional embroidery uses three dominant thread brands in the UK market. Each uses a different numbering system, but all three are compatible with industrial embroidery machines used for custom patches.

  • Madeira – German precision, 4-digit codes, vivid saturation
  • Isacord – Most widely used globally, 4-digit codes
  • Gunold – Specialist range, codes prefixed POLY/SUPRA
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Why Thread Choice Matters for Your Patch

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Colour Accuracy

Thread colours appear darker when densely stitched. When ordering, always reference the specific thread code, not just the hex value. Hex values are digital approximations only.

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Rayon vs. Polyester

Madeira and Isacord offer both rayon (high sheen, vibrant) and polyester (fade-resistant, industrial-washable) variants. For patches on work uniforms, polyester threads are recommended.

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Stitch Density

Higher stitch density (more stitches per cm²) produces bolder colour but increases weight. For fine text on patches, lower density with precise thread colour selection gives cleaner results.

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Colour Mixing

Unlike print, embroidery cannot blend colours. Each area is stitched in a single thread colour. Maximum 9 thread colours per patch. Complex gradients require woven patches instead.

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Brand Compatibility

Madeira, Isacord and Gunold are all compatible with Tajima, Brother and Barudan embroidery machines. Any of these codes can be used when placing an order with us.

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Ordering by Code

When sending your design brief, specify thread colours by brand code (e.g. “Madeira 1070” or “Isacord 0020”). This eliminates colour guesswork and reduces revision rounds.

Brand Comparison Guide

FeatureMadeiraIsacordGunold
OriginGermanyGermany (Amann Group)Germany
Code Format4-digit numeric (e.g. 1070)4-digit numeric (e.g. 0020)POLY/SUPRA + 4 digits
Colour Range500+ shades400+ shades300+ shades
Thread TypesRayon, Polyester, Metallic, WoolPolyester (main), RayonPolyester, Metallic, Specialty
Wash Resistance✔ Excellent (Poly range)✔ Outstanding✔ Very Good
Sheen / LustreHigh (Rayon) / Moderate (Poly)Moderate, consistentHigh (metallic available)
Best ForFashion patches, detailed logosUniform patches, workwearSpecialist/military, metallics
Machine Compatibility✔ Universal✔ Universal✔ Universal
Used at CustomEmbroideredPatchesUK✔ Yes✔ Yes✔ Yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I specify exact thread colours when ordering my patch?
Yes. When placing an order with Custom Embroidered Patches UK, you can reference any Madeira, Isacord or Gunold thread code from this chart. Our digitising team will match your specified codes exactly. This is the most accurate way to ensure colour consistency across multiple orders.
Are the hex codes on this chart exact matches for the thread colours?
The hex values are close digital approximations, not exact matches. Actual thread colour depends on material (rayon vs. polyester), stitch density, and base fabric colour. Always request a free digital proof to see how your chosen colours will appear on your specific patch design before production begins.
How many thread colours can I use on a single embroidered patch?
Standard embroidered patches support up to 9 thread colours. Using fewer colours (3–6) typically produces crisper results, especially for patches under 3 inches. If your design requires more colours or photographic gradients, we may recommend a woven or printed patch instead.
What’s the difference between rayon and polyester embroidery thread for patches?
Rayon thread produces a high-gloss, vivid finish ideal for fashion items and decorative patches. Polyester thread is more durable, fade-resistant, and washable, making it the standard for uniform patches, military patches, and workwear. We use polyester thread by default unless rayon is requested.
Do metallic threads cost extra?
Metallic threads (available from both Madeira and Gunold) are available but may incur a small surcharge due to the specialist handling they require during production. Contact us for a quote if your design uses metallic thread colours.
Can I download or share this thread colour chart?
Yes, this page is a free, open reference tool. You are welcome to bookmark, link, and share it with clients, designers, or team members. We only ask that you credit Custom Embroidered Patches UK when referencing the chart on your own website or publication.

Found Your Colours?

Share your thread codes with us and we’ll turn them into a finished patch. Free proof, no minimum order.

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