Embroidery Thread Converter

Convert embroidery thread numbers between DMC, Anchor, and Madeira brands with color swatches.

By Marshkalk

Embroidery Thread Converter

Convert embroidery floss references between the three major brands: DMC, Anchor, and Madeira. Conversions are approximate, exact color matches do not always exist.

About the brands

  • DMC: the most widely used reference worldwide. Most patterns are written with DMC numbers. DMC floss has good colorfastness and wide availability.
  • Anchor: popular in the UK and Europe. Uses a different numbering system. Anchor colors can vary slightly from DMC equivalents.
  • Madeira: known for colorfastness and specialty ranges (silk, metallic). Used by some European patterns.

How to find a match

  • Search by color name (e.g. "Christmas red"), DMC number (e.g. "304"), or brand (e.g. "Anchor 47")
  • When no exact match exists, the closest available color is shown
  • For critical projects, compare threads physically before substituting

Cross-stitch and embroidery tips

  • Most cross-stitch patterns use 2 strands of 6-strand floss on 14-count Aida fabric
  • Separate strands before stitching, this improves coverage and reduces tangling
  • Work with 45-50 cm lengths to reduce wear on the thread
  • Wash finished pieces by hand in cool water with mild soap; lay flat to dry

Brand origins and UK context

Understanding the brands helps explain why UK and European patterns sometimes list different reference numbers for the same project:

  • Anchor: originally produced by J. & P. Coats in Paisley, Scotland. Anchor is the traditional UK embroidery floss brand and is the default in older British patterns, cross-stitch kits, and magazines like Cross Stitcher and The World of Cross Stitching. Now part of the global Coats Group.
  • DMC: founded in Mulhouse, Alsace (France) in 1746. DMC is the global standard for patterns published internationally , most online patterns and modern kits use DMC numbers. Widely stocked in UK craft shops.
  • Madeira: German brand (Freiburg im Breisgau) known for colorfastness and specialist ranges (silk, metallic, glow-in-the-dark). Less common in UK high street shops but available online and in specialist stores.
  • Zweigart: German manufacturer (Sindelfingen, Baden-Württemberg) , the dominant brand for Aida fabric and evenweave in Europe. Most European embroidery canvas is Zweigart, even when not labelled as such.