Y.L.I. Threads Company produces a wide range of threads, with a primary focus on quilters’ needs.

I create realistic embroidery with miniature elements, so I’ll be looking at these threads from an embroiderer’s point of view.

I want to show you their amazing silk, cotton, and metallic threads. I didn’t try Y.L.I. polyester and rayon threads yet, but I plan to ^^

Note: I usually work with certain cotton and metallic threads (in the photo - the green DMC thread for comparison), but the company offers a wider variety.

Silk #100 Threads “is our 100 wt. silk thread, made from premium Japanese filament silk” (this text is taken from the Y.L.I. website)

This is a very fine and pretty sturdy thread. I explored which threads might compare to it. This is Kimono Silk by Superior Threads, see the photos below:

Kimono Silk has a slightly softer texture. When I tried tearing the threads, they turned out to be a little stronger than Y.L.I. silk. It’s not a major detail (both threads are amazing!), but something I noticed.

I often blend Y.L.I. silk with different thickness threads and use them in miniature embroidery. As shown in the photo above, they can be split into two threads, which makes it perfect for creating delicate shading.

For example, I used these threads as well when embroiderung these pictures:

All colors:

https://ylithreads.com/collections/silk-100

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Y.L.I. Cotton

I’m using this type of Y.L.I. cotton threads, but you can find more cotton threads on the Y.L.I. website.

So, the threads are perfect for making branches, see how I tested them: https://www.katrinvates.com/blog/branch-with-lichen

I sometimes use them in French knots in autumn foliage. Keep in mind, though - they create a matt effect and are thick, so they’re best suited for close-up elements.

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Y.L.I. Silk for hand embroidery, 6 strands, 5 meters.

As indicated on the label: “For Heirloom Embroidery, Smocking, Cross Stitch, Crewel and Tapestry”.

Bob Purcell (the owner of Y.L.I. Threads) said that they “do not plan to continue making it'“, but you still can find the threads on Etsy, eBuy, and other sources. I bought this bunch of threads on Etsy.