In cross stitch, what is overdyed thread?

Answer by  Liz59 (10966)

It is basically when you have a thread that had a different color and has now been dyed with another color. For example, the thread may have been blue. But now has been died teal.

Answer by  LeheckaG (1826)

"Over Dyed thread" is when another different color dye is applied (usually by hand) over a previously dyed (usually by machine) colored thread. Whereas the underlying dye color is often consistent, the over dyed color usually has some variations making for a more interesting piece.

Answer by  MJones30 (19)

Overdyed thread is thread dyed with various shades. The colours and patterns vary from one thread to another, and can create and interesting and unusual finished result.

Answer by  barsi05 (42)

Over dyed threads have darker colors than the usual threads. They are stiffer and are really hard to use in cross stitching.

Answer by  kalhana (64)

Over-dyed thread is thread that has been dyed another color on top of the base color. This is usually done by hand, and can be spaced out so that the base color shows through. Think of it as the multicolored yards. Or it can be thought of as a similar process as tie-dyeing an object, just with thread.

Answer by  Heloise (397)

It just means the thread has been dyed over - i.e. from its original color. Sometimes to make special effects, or sometimes just because the original colour wasn't right, or had faded. It's not just a cross-stitch term, but used of any thread treated in this way.

Answer by  LadyElisabeth (52)

Overdyed threads have the characteristic of a gradation of tones of the color throughout the strand. Cross-stiching with this type of thread, by combining strands differently you can create a degree of realness or decorative highlight to the piece.

Answer by  yarniechick (118)

Over dyed thread is a commercial thread that has been hand dyed to create a different color or possibly a variegated colorway.