Sewing Thread Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Synthetic, Natural), By Application (Apparel, Footwear), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets & Hypermarkets), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Sewing Thread Market Size & Trends

The global sewing thread market size was valued at USD 3.66 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.7% from 2025 to 2030. The industry is experiencing significant growth due to a variety of interconnected factors, including technological advancements, rising consumer demand, and expanding applications across multiple industries. One of the primary drivers of this growth is the increasing demand in the apparel and footwear sectors. The surge is largely attributed to rising disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences, particularly in emerging economies where fast fashion has become a dominant trend.

Technological innovations in thread manufacturing have also played a pivotal role in the market's expansion. Advances in production techniques have led to the development of high-performance threads that exhibit superior durability, flexibility, and strength. Synthetic threads such as polyester and nylon are increasingly favored for their resilience in various applications. These innovations cater not only to traditional textile applications but also to specialized fields like medical sutures and technical textiles.

The growing use of technical textiles across diverse industries has further expanded the application scope for sewing threads. Industries such as automotive, healthcare, and construction are increasingly utilizing specialized threads designed to withstand extreme conditions. As these sectors continue to evolve, the demand for high-quality, durable sewing threads will likely increase correspondingly.

Sustainability trends are also influencing the growth of the sewing thread market. There is a noticeable shift toward eco-friendly products made from recycled materials or natural fibers like organic cotton. Consumers and manufacturers alike are prioritizing environmentally responsible practices, which has led to innovations in biodegradable and sustainable sewing solutions. This focus on sustainability aligns with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of textile production, further driving demand for eco-conscious products.

Globalization has opened new markets for sewing thread manufacturers, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, which has emerged as a key player due to its cost-effective labor force and abundant raw materials. This regional advantage enables manufacturers to meet increasing global demand while optimizing production costs.

The rise of e-commerce platforms has streamlined supply chains and improved accessibility for sewing thread products worldwide. Coupled with rapid urbanization, there is an increased demand for high-quality threads in home textiles, bedding, and luggage. These factors contribute to the consistent growth of the sewing thread market, highlighting its vital role within the global textile ecosystem. As these trends continue to evolve, the market is poised for further expansion in the coming years.

The industry faces several challenges that could hinder its growth trajectory. One significant issue is the volatility in raw material prices. The prices of essential materials, whether natural, like cotton, or synthetic, like polyester, fluctuate frequently, leading to uncertainty in production costs. This instability can make it difficult for manufacturers to set consistent pricing strategies, impacting profitability and market competitiveness. As a result, manufacturers may struggle to maintain their margins while meeting consumer demand for affordable products.

Environmental concerns also pose a challenge for the sewing thread market. The textile industry is under increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact, particularly regarding synthetic threads, which are often non-biodegradable. Issues such as microfiber pollution, where tiny synthetic fibers enter water bodies, have raised alarms among consumers and environmental advocates. Manufacturers are now pressured to develop more sustainable practices and eco-friendly products, which can require significant investment and innovation.

Type Insights

The natural sewing threads segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2025 to 2030. Natural sewing threads, derived from materials like cotton, silk, and linen, are experiencing growth due to increasing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products. These threads are biodegradable and have a lower environmental impact than synthetic alternatives. Factors such as heightened awareness of sustainability, the rising popularity of DIY and crafting activities, and the availability of high-quality natural fibers contribute to this growth. Additionally, innovations in organic and recycled fibers are driving market expansion as consumers prioritize environmentally responsible choices.

Synthetic sewing threads, made from polyester, nylon, and rayon, dominate the market due to their superior strength, durability, and resistance to chemicals and moisture. These threads are widely used in industrial applications requiring high-performance characteristics such as tensile strength and abrasion resistance. The synthetic sewing thread market is projected to grow steadily as the textile and garment industries expand globally. Polyester-based threads are particularly popular for their cost-efficiency and versatility in applications ranging from apparel to technical textiles. Technological advancements in manufacturing processes have further enhanced the performance of synthetic threads, making them indispensable in modern textile production.

However, environmental concerns surrounding synthetic threads pose challenges for their growth. These threads are made primarily from petroleum-based materials and are non-biodegradable and contribute to pollution. Despite this drawback, their advantages over natural fibers-such as lower shrinkage rates and better colorfastness-continue to drive demand in applications requiring durability and resilience. On the other hand, natural threads face limitations such as lower elasticity and wear resistance compared to synthetic options. Nonetheless, their eco-friendly attributes make them increasingly appealing in markets emphasizing sustainability.

Application Insights

The apparel segment was the largest consumer of sewing thread accounting for over USD 1.7 billion in 2024. The growth of sewing threads in the apparel industry is driven by several key factors, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the global textile market. One major driver is the increasing demand for affordable and high-quality garments, fueled by rising disposable incomes and economic growth in developed and developing regions. Consumers purchase more garments at lower prices, particularly in fast fashion markets, which rely heavily on sewing threads for mass production.

The footwear industry's growth in sewing threads is driven by increasing consumer demand for trendy, comfortable, and durable footwear across all age groups. The global footwear market has expanded significantly due to rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and changing lifestyles, leading to higher spending on casual and formal shoes. Millennials and Generation Z, in particular, are driving demand for premium-quality footwear that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. Sewing threads are critical in ensuring footwear's durability and design intricacies, making them indispensable in production processes.

The use of sewing threads in other applications, such as medical and technical textiles, is also expected to grow over the forecast period. The growth of sewing threads in the medical textile sector is driven by several key factors that reflect advancements in healthcare technology and increasing demand for specialized medical applications. One of the primary drivers is the rising need for high-performance surgical sutures and wound care products. As the healthcare industry expands globally, there is a growing emphasis on patient safety and recovery, necessitating durable and reliable sewing threads.

Distribution Channel Insights

The sale of sewing threads through specialty stores generated a revenue of USD 1.36 billion in 2024. Specialty stores cater to a niche audience, including hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and small-scale tailors, who value personalized service and access to a wide range of high-quality sewing threads. These stores often provide expert advice, demonstrations, and workshops, creating a community-centric shopping experience that fosters customer loyalty. The increasing popularity of crafting and sewing as hobbies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has further boosted the demand for sewing threads in these outlets. Consumers appreciate the tactile experience of selecting threads in person, which is difficult to replicate through online platforms. These channels benefit from high foot traffic and offer convenience by bundling threads with other textile or crafting supplies. Expanding retail chains into suburban and rural areas has made sewing threads more accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, retailers often partner with well-known thread brands to stock a diverse product range, attracting both casual buyers and professionals.

The growth of the online sales channel for sewing threads is driven by several factors that align with broader trends in e-commerce and digital retail. One of the primary reasons is the convenience offered by online platforms. Consumers can browse, compare, and purchase sewing threads from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need to visit physical stores. This convenience is particularly appealing to hobbyists, small-scale tailors, and industrial buyers who value time efficiency. The ability to access a wide variety of thread types, colors, and brands on a single platform has further boosted online sales.

The global expansion of internet penetration has opened up new markets for sewing thread retailers. Online platforms allow sellers to reach customers in remote or underserved areas where physical stores might be limited. This broader reach has enabled businesses to tap into previously inaccessible customer bases, driving growth in regions with growing textile industries like Asia-Pacific. Furthermore, cross-border e-commerce has facilitated international trade, allowing manufacturers to sell their products globally without the need for physical storefronts.

Regional Insights

North America sewing thread market is experiencing steady growth, primarily fueled by a robust textile and apparel industry. Advanced manufacturing technologies and a strong focus on quality and innovation characterize the region's market. The demand for high-quality synthetic threads, mainly polyester and nylon, is rising due to their superior strength and durability, making them ideal for various applications, including apparel, automotive, and home textiles. The growth is supported by increasing consumer spending on fashion and a shift toward sustainable practices within the textile industry, prompting manufacturers to invest in eco-friendly materials. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has enhanced accessibility to sewing threads for both consumers and businesses, further driving market expansion.

U.S. Sewing Thread Market Trends

The sewing thread market in the U.S. is expected to exceed USD 700 million by 2030 and grow at a CAGR of 2.1% from 2025 to 2030. One of the primary drives of this growth is the robust demand for high-quality apparel and footwear, which has been bolstered by rising disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences. As consumers increasingly seek fashionable and durable clothing, manufacturers are compelled to use superior sewing threads that enhance the quality and longevity of their products. The U.S. market benefits from a strong emphasis on innovation, with advancements in thread manufacturing techniques leading to products that cater to diverse applications, from fashion to technical textiles.

Asia Pacific Sewing Thread Market Trends

The sewing thread market in Asia Pacific held the largest revenue share of 48.2% in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2025 to 2030, driven by increasing demand for affordable apparel and technical textiles. The Asia-Pacific region dominates the global sewing thread market, accounting for a substantial share due to its extensive textile manufacturing capabilities. Countries like China, India, and Bangladesh are major contributors to this growth, benefiting from low labor costs and abundant raw materials. The region's strong export capabilities in textiles have positioned it as a global manufacturing hub, attracting investments in advanced production technologies. Furthermore, the rising fashion consciousness among consumers in emerging markets is fueling demand for diverse sewing threads that cater to various styles and preferences. The growing popularity of DIY projects and crafting also contributes to the increased consumption of sewing threads in this region.

Key Sewing Thread Company Insights

The sewing thread market's competitive landscape is characterized by numerous global and regional players, each striving to innovate and capture market share through strategic initiatives. Prominent companies such as AMANN & Söhne GmbH & Co KG, American & Efird LLC, Coats Group PLC, and AURIFIL Srl lead the industry with their advanced manufacturing capabilities, strong distribution networks and focus on quality and sustainability. These players have set high benchmarks by integrating modern technologies into their production processes, such as automation and precision engineering, which enhance efficiency and product performance.

Sewing Thread Market Report Scope

Global Sewing Thread Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional, and country levels, and analyzes the latest industry trends and opportunities in each sub-segment from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global sewing thread market report by type, application, distribution channel, and region:

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Apparel

  • Footwear

  • Beddings & Mattress

  • Others

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Natural

  • Synthetic

• Distribution Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Supermarkets & Hypermarkets

  • Specialty Stores

  • Online Stores

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • U.K.

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • Japan

    • India

    • Australia & New Zealand

    • South Korea

  • Central & South America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East & Africa

    • UAE