Celebrating 125 Years of DMC’s Iconic Mouliné Spécial Embroidery Thread

The Enduring Legacy of DMC Mouliné Spécial

In 1898, DMC created Mouliné Spécial, 125 years on it is firmly established as the World’s favourite stranded embroidery thread selling 1 million skeins a day. It has become the benchmark for quality and the default reference for colour. Behind the scenes, the production of this renowned embroidery thread is a labour of love. A highly skilled team oversee the entire process, from selecting the finest raw materials to the final packaging of each skein.?

Why has Mouliné Spécial Endured?

This remarkable thread continues to be cherished by professional embroiderers, fashion designers, fibre artists and crafters worldwide because of its quality.?

It gets its strength and durability from the long fibres of the high-quality Egyptian cotton it is made from. During its manufacture, it is passed through a naked flame to burn off any fluffy outer fibres which gives the thread its characteristic smoothness. It is then mercerised twice to create its signature lustre and softness. It’s a strong hard-working thread that's colourfast and fade resistant. Embroidery is an intricate craft that takes time so makers can be confident that their makes will withstand repeated washing and sunlight. When you spend hours working on a piece of needlework you want the experience to be pleasurable and the results to be lasting. It’s a thread that’s worthy of the love and care that goes into stitching an heirloom piece.

A Palette of Over 500 Colours

A testament to meticulous craftsmanship, DMC has preserved its diligent manufacturing processes that ensure the colours are exactly the same today as they were in 1898. This consistency is achieved through rigorous quality control measures and an unwavering commitment to preserving the integrity of each colour. The art of dyeing has been refined over the years, and modern techniques and regulations have been integrated without compromising colour accuracy.?

It allows artists to use these threads with full trust, ensuring that their creations maintain the intended impact and artistic integrity.

The first colour of Mouliné that was ever made was red. The bright bold choice reflected its initial practical application. At a time when clothing was sent to a wash house to be laundered, monograms ensured each piece could easily be returned to its owner.?

As the artistry of embroidery has evolved, the range of colours DMC makes has grown to an unrivalled palette of over 500 shades including variegated, ombre and metallic colours, there’s even a shade that glows in the dark. The breadth of the range allows makers to add depth, dimension, and nuance to their work. It caters for every creative vision offering a world of artistic possibilities from photo realistic images to abstract art.

A Proud Heritage

Mouliné is still manufactured in the same factory in Mulhouse, France where it was created in 1898. The unbroken lineage of this factory's commitment to producing high-quality embroidery thread is awe-inspiring. It’s a testament to the dedication of generations of artisans and workers who have consistently strived to maintain the excellence that began over a century ago.?

Using bespoke machinery, every skein is wound with precision, ensuring that it is tangle-free and easy to work with. It is this care and commitment to quality that has made the brand synonymous with excellence.

The town is rightly proud of their connection to the thread and the DMC name, most have either worked at the factory or have a family member who did.

As we celebrate the 125th anniversary of Mouliné, it is evident that it is more than just thread; it is a symbol of enduring craftsmanship, tradition, and artistic expression that allows artisans to weave their own stories in colour and thread, as they have for over a century. Its ability to inspire generations of embroiderers and artists is a testament to its remarkable heritage, quality, and colour palette.

In a fast-paced world, where technology continually evolves, the presence of a product that has remained true to its roots is a comforting constant for those who cherish the art of embroidery. This 125th anniversary is not just a milestone; it is a celebration of the enduring legacy of creativity and craftsmanship that stands the test of time.

Click here to watch a video of Mouliné being made.

Celebrate with us at www.dmc.com.