Intro
Recycled threads are available in different raw materials, constructions and performance profiles. A recycled sewing thread must meet the same application-specific requirements as any other thread: strength, elasticity, softness, abrasion resistance, appearance, fineness, colour and process reliability.
The right choice therefore begins with the seam requirement. Recycled content is an important material attribute, but it does not replace technical selection. A core spun thread, continuous filament, texturised bulk thread, elastic thread and embroidery thread serve different functions within the same end product.

Recycled content is only one selection criterion
A recycled thread can support a product’s material strategy while still being selected by end use and seam position. The objective is to combine the required performance with a suitable recycled raw material and, where relevant, recognised chain-of-custody certification.
Key factors to consider
- Application and seam position: Closing seams, overedging, elastic seams, footwear seams and embroidery require different constructions.
- Raw material: Recycled polyester, recycled PBT and recycled polyamide provide different performance profiles.
- Certification: Where required, select variants available as GRS certified and verify the applicable certification scope.
- Appearance: Choose between a textile look, a smooth lustre, a fine semi-transparent appearance or brilliant embroidery.
- Additional functionality: Recycled products are also available with elasticity, UV resistance and water-repellent finishes.
Typical applications
- Apparel and workwear
- Sportswear and underwear
- Shoes and accessories
- Fine materials and down products
- Elastic garments
- Machine embroidery
- Outdoor and water-repellent products
Find the right AMANN solution
| AMANN product | Recommended use within this solution |
|---|---|
| Saba Recycled | 100% recycled polyester core spun thread for apparel, with good strength, abrasion resistance and a textile appearance. |
| Sabatex Recycled | 100% recycled polyester texturised bulk thread for overedging and coverstitch seams. |
| Serafil Recycled | 100% recycled polyester continuous filament for shoes, accessories and durable decorative seams. |
| Serafil fine Recycled | Fine recycled continuous filament for lightweight materials, fine overedging and down processing. |
| Sabaflex Recycled | Highly elastic thread made from 100% recycled PBT. |
| Isacord Recycled | 100% recycled polyester machine embroidery thread in brilliant colours. |
| Isacord Recycled UV | UV-resistant recycled embroidery thread for products exposed to strong sunlight. |
| Serafil Recycled WRe / Serafil fine Recycled WRe | Recycled continuous filament options with PFAS-free water-repellent finish. |
| Lifecycle Polyamide | 100% recycled polyamide continuous filament developed for the technical cycle. |
Important technical note
The suitability of a sewing thread depends on the complete combination of material, seam construction, stitch type, needle, machine settings and finishing processes. Individual sewing trials and application-specific testing are recommended before production.