Mouliné Coloris REF.517 - DMC

DMC Coloris Embroidery Floss 517 – Multicolor Embroidery Thread with 4 Shaded Tones

100% Mercerized Cotton | 8 meters – 6 divisible strands | Cross-stitch and decorative embroidery

📋 Key features

• Composition100% mercerized cotton
• Skein length8 meters
• Strand count6 divisible strands
• Tones per thread4 complementary colors
• Color changeEvery 5 cm (approx. 7 cross-stitches)
• Color codeREF. 517
• Thickness25
• WashingHand wash at 30°C, do not spin-dry

🧵 The thread

The DMC Coloris 517 is a multicolor embroidery thread made of 100% mercerized cotton that combines 4 complementary tones in the same strand. Each 8-meter skein creates a natural variegated effect that changes from stitch to stitch, without having to change thread. It is designed for those looking for harmonious shades and results that are always unique, impossible to achieve with solid-color threads.

The 6-divisible-strand structure allows for precise work on any surface: from cross-stitch on Aida cloth to decorative embroidery on linen. The color change occurs every 5 centimeters, corresponding to about 7 cross-stitches, creating a luminous and dynamic melange pattern that reveals itself only during stitching.

🧬 Technical composition: why it works

100% mercerized cotton is the foundation of all DMC Mouliné threads. Mercerization is a chemical treatment that makes the fiber more resistant, shiny, and capable of retaining color permanently. This process ensures that the 4 tones of the Coloris 517 maintain their brilliance even after numerous washes, without fading or shifting.

The choice of pure cotton eliminates the risk of pilling and snapping during work. Each strand slides smoothly through the needle without tangling and maintains even tension stitch after stitch. This is essential for variegated effect cross-stitch, where the regularity of the thread determines the quality of the final result.

📦 Format and yield of the skein

Each skein contains 8 meters of 6-strand thread. Using 2 strands on 14-count Aida cloth, one skein covers approximately 400-450 cross-stitches, equivalent to an area of about 7x7 cm. For larger projects, such as pictures or decorative cushions, calculate 2-3 skeins for every 50 cm² of embroidered surface.

The color change every 7 cross-stitches means that the variegated effect appears naturally even on small areas. To achieve a harmonious result, purchase all necessary skeins at once: even if the color code is the same, color sequences may vary slightly between different production batches.

🧶 Recommended application

For cross-stitch on 14-count Aida cloth, use 2 separate strands. On denser fabrics (18-count Aida or 28-count linen), reduce to 1 strand to avoid overlapping. Mouliné Coloris is classified as size 25, the DMC standard for cross-stitch, compatible with embroidery needles no. 24-26.

Technical tip: cut lengths of thread (aiguillées) no longer than 40 cm to avoid damaging the fiber during repeated passing through the needle. On very dense fabrics (7-count Aida or lower), reduce to 20 cm. This preserves the luster of the mercerized cotton and prevents the thread from twisting.

✨ Why choose Mouliné Coloris 517

The main difference compared to Mouliné Variation (DMC's other variegated line) is the frequency of color changes. Coloris changes tone every 5 cm, creating faster transitions and a more dynamic melange effect. Variation, on the other hand, has longer sequences (approx. 10-15 cm), suitable for gradual shading on large surfaces.

Each strand of Coloris has different colors on the other strands of the same thread: this means that even by separating the 6 strands, each one will have a unique color sequence. It is the ideal choice for those who want a unique variegated effect without manually planning color changes, saving time and achieving professional results even as a beginner.

🎨 What you can create

Mouliné Coloris 517 is perfect for shaded effect cross-stitch on floral motifs, natural landscapes, and abstract subjects. Also ideal for decorative embroidery on cushions, tablecloths, and frames, and for creative sewing on projects requiring multicolor details without changing thread.

👩‍🎨 Suitable for whom

Suitable for both beginners who want complex results without manually managing color changes, and experienced embroiderers looking for natural variegated effects for creative projects. The 6-strand divisibility allows for modulating coverage on any type of fabric.

Particularly appreciated by those working on cross-stitch kits with shading, hobbyists customizing projects with multicolor details, and artisans selling embroidered creations with a unique, recognizable effect.

🧼 Care and maintenance

• WashingHand wash at 30°C, do not spin-dry
• BleachingDo not bleach
• DryingDry flat away from heat sources
• IroningMedium iron (150°C) on the reverse
• StorageStore away from direct light
• ColorfastnessExcellent light and wash resistance

📌 Important note

📊 Technical Data Summary