Ultimate Guide to DMC Glow in the Dark Thread: Expert Tips, Comparisons & Usage Secrets

1. Introduction

DMC Glow in the Dark Thread (E940) has revolutionized the world of embroidery, offering a unique way to add luminous magic to your needlework. Imagine your cross stitch or embroidery coming alive with a subtle green glow after the lights go out—perfect for everything from whimsical Halloween motifs to hidden messages that only reveal themselves in the dark. This specialty thread isn’t just a novelty; it’s a versatile tool for both hand and machine embroidery, unlocking creative possibilities that standard floss simply can’t match.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore what makes DMC Glow in the Dark Thread so special, dive into its properties and performance, and share expert techniques for stitching success. Whether you’re a seasoned embroiderer or just curious about adding a glow to your next project, you’ll find detailed comparisons with other brands, troubleshooting tips, and inspiration for creative applications. Ready to illuminate your stitching? Let’s dive in.

2. What Makes DMC Glow in the Dark Thread Unique? Properties and Characteristics

2.1 Material Composition and Physical Structure

DMC Glow in the Dark Thread, officially known as E940 in the Light Effects line, stands out for its 100% polyester construction. Unlike traditional DMC embroidery floss, which is made from cotton, E940 is crafted from durable polyester fibers. This material choice gives the thread a fluffy, elastic texture and makes it more resistant to tarnishing and fading over time.

Each skein comes in the familiar DMC format: 6 easily separated strands, allowing you to customize thickness for any project. With 8.7 yards per skein, it’s designed for both convenience and versatility. The pull-skein design makes it easy to measure and cut the perfect length, whether you’re working on a small accent or a larger glowing motif.

Polyester’s inherent properties mean E940 is colorfast, washable, and durable, making it suitable for pieces that may need cleaning or will be handled frequently. Compared to regular cotton floss, it’s less likely to lose its glow or structural integrity after washing, providing long-lasting results.

2.2 Glow Performance and Visual Characteristics

In daylight, DMC E940 appears as a white or cream-colored thread—subtle enough to blend seamlessly with standard whites in your design. But when the lights go out, the magic happens: after exposure to light, it emits a gentle green luminescence that’s both enchanting and functional for hidden effects.

When it comes to glow intensity and duration, DMC E940 offers a softer, less intense glow compared to competitors like Kreinik. Side-by-side tests consistently show that Kreinik threads glow brighter and longer, especially under blacklight conditions. DMC’s E940, while charming, has a minimal fluorescent response to UV light and is generally the least luminous option among glow-in-the-dark embroidery threads. For those seeking a subtle effect or a perfect daylight match with white thread, however, E940 remains a go-to choice.

The thread’s softer texture and gentle shine under normal lighting make it visually appealing, but without the metallic shimmer found in some specialty threads. Its understated appearance in daylight is ideal for designs where you want the glow to be a surprise, not a distraction.

2.3 Handling Challenges and Advantages

Working with DMC Glow in the Dark Thread introduces a few quirks. Its fluffy, elastic texture can make it tricky to achieve uniform stitches, and the thread is more prone to fraying and tension inconsistencies than standard cotton floss. Many embroiderers find that using shorter lengths and conditioning the thread with beeswax or thread conditioner helps manage these issues.

Despite these challenges, E940 offers notable advantages:

• Perfect Color Match: In daylight, it blends seamlessly with white or winter white threads, making it ideal for hidden messages or surprise effects that only appear when the lights go out.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While its glow is less intense, DMC E940 is often more affordable and widely available than premium glow threads, making it a practical choice for large projects or backgrounds.
• Durability: Thanks to its polyester base, it stands up to repeated washing and handling better than cotton alternatives.

If you’re aiming for crisp, clean lines, especially in backstitching, be prepared to adapt your technique—some users report difficulty maintaining consistent tension due to the thread’s elasticity. Still, with a bit of patience and the right preparation, E940 can deliver stunning, long-lasting results.

3. Mastering Stitching Techniques with DMC Glow Thread

3.1 Preparation and Conditioning Methods

Success with DMC Glow in the Dark Thread starts before you even make your first stitch. Because of its tendency to fray and tangle, thread conditioning is your secret weapon. Lightly running the thread through beeswax or a thread conditioner creates a protective coating, smoothing the surface and reducing friction as you stitch. This simple step can make a world of difference, especially for longer projects.

Length management is equally critical. Unlike cotton floss, which can be used in lengths of 12–18 inches, E940 performs best when cut to about 6–18 inches. Shorter lengths minimize fraying, tangling, and kinking, keeping your stitches neat and your frustration low.

When it comes to needle selection, opt for a needle with a larger eye—this reduces stress on the thread and makes threading easier. For 14-count fabric, a size 24 needle works well; for higher counts like 16 or 18, try a size 26 or 28. If you’re struggling to pull the thread through, don’t hesitate to size up your needle for a smoother experience.

YouTube tutorials and top bloggers also recommend using products like Fray Check on the ends before cutting, letting it dry slightly before separating strands. This helps prevent unraveling and keeps your thread manageable from the start.

3.2 Stitching Best Practices for Different Fabrics

Strand selection is key for achieving the right coverage. On 14-count or 28-count Aida, two strands of E940 usually provide sufficient coverage, but if you’re working on finer fabrics like 32-count evenweave, a single strand may be best to avoid bulkiness and messy finishes.

Glow thread’s unique texture calls for a slow, deliberate stitching rhythm. Rushing can lead to more fraying and uneven tension. Take your time, and every 20–30 stitches, let your needle and thread hang freely below the fabric—this allows the thread to untwist naturally and prevents kinks.

If you notice uneven tension between strands (a common issue with synthetic threads), gently slide your needle down to the fabric and back up to even things out. This technique, highlighted in Caterpillar Cross Stitch’s YouTube tutorial, helps maintain smooth, consistent stitches.

For backstitching or outlining, consider using a single strand and working slowly to keep lines crisp. If you struggle with traditional backstitch, experiment with alternative stitches or adjust your tension for better results.

3.3 Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the most experienced stitchers encounter challenges with glow in the dark thread. Here’s how to tackle the most common problems:

• Fraying: Condition your thread, use shorter lengths, and keep tail ends short when threading your needle. Applying Fray Check before cutting can also help.
• Tension Inconsistencies: Slow down your stitching, periodically let the thread untwist, and use a larger needle to reduce friction.
• Kinking and Tangling: Allow the thread and needle to hang freely every so often, and avoid overhandling the thread ends.
• Thread Breakage: If breakage occurs, double-check your needle size and thread length, and consider switching to a gold-plated or larger-eye needle for smoother passage.

Remember, patience is your best friend. Glow in the dark thread rewards careful handling and a willingness to adapt your technique. Once you master its quirks, you’ll unlock a world of creative possibilities—hidden messages, glowing accents, and designs that truly shine after dark.

Ready to bring your embroidery to life with a little glow? Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be illuminating your projects in no time.

4. DMC vs. Competitors: Kreinik, Sulky and Performance Metrics

When you enter the world of glow in the dark embroidery threads, the choices quickly multiply—each brand promising a unique blend of glow, ease, and creative potential. But how do DMC, Kreinik, and Sulky really stack up against one another? Let’s break down the battle of the brands, thread by thread.

4.1 Side-by-Side Performance Comparison

DMC’s E940 is the household name—widely available, affordable, and easy to integrate into traditional embroidery techniques. In daylight, it’s a subtle off-white, blending seamlessly with standard floss. But when the lights go out, DMC reveals its signature gentle green glow. Compared to Kreinik, however, DMC’s glow is softer and fades more quickly. Kreinik threads, especially their #8 and #4 Braids, consistently outshine DMC in both brightness and longevity, making them the go-to for those who want their designs to truly pop in the dark.

Sulky Glowy threads, on the other hand, are praised for their long-lasting luminescence—often outglowing both DMC and Kreinik in user tests. While specific numbers are elusive, feedback consistently places Sulky at the top for glow duration.

If you crave color, Kreinik is your playground. Their glow-in-the-dark line offers a spectrum: Grapefruit, Watermelon, Lime, Lemon Lime, Tangerine, Blueberry, and Grape (in ribbon formats). DMC keeps it classic with just one: E940’s white/green glow. Sulky offers a vibrant six-pack (yellow, green, orange, pink, blue, purple), making it a strong contender for multi-colored, glowing designs.

DMC’s E940 is soft and fluffy—pleasant to the touch but prone to fraying and tension hiccups. Kreinik’s braids are stiffer, with a “crunchy” feel and a tendency to curl, especially straight off the spool. Sulky threads are thinner, smooth, and easy to manage, making them especially friendly for beginners.

Here’s a twist: DMC’s B5200 (a regular white cotton) actually outshines E940 under blacklight, glowing more intensely than the dedicated glow threads. Kreinik and Sulky threads respond well to UV, but DMC’s E940 is less impressive in this department.

4.2 Durability and Long-Term Value Analysis

All three brands hold up well to repeated washing when treated gently. DMC’s polyester base gives it an edge in durability over cotton threads, resisting tarnish and fading. Kreinik’s synthetic braids are sturdy but can melt under high heat. Sulky’s cotton construction is robust, but like all glow threads, it’s best kept away from irons and bleach.

Testing and user reports agree: glow effect will gradually fade after about 50 washes, a natural limit for phosphorescent pigments. However, premium brands with higher pigment concentrations (like Madeira Luna, for example) can stretch that lifespan further.

Here’s your golden rule: never iron glow in the dark threads. DMC resists heat a bit better than Kreinik or Sulky, but all will lose their glow if exposed to high temperatures. Always use mild detergent, warm water (below 104°F), and low-heat drying to preserve the magic.

4.3 Application-Specific Recommendations

- DMC E940: Best for large coverage, backgrounds, and when you need a daylight-perfect white. Its affordability and familiar handling make it ideal for traditional cross-stitch and needlepoint, especially on 14-18 count fabrics.

- Kreinik: Choose this for maximum glow, vibrant color variety, and specialty applications like plastic canvas or decorative accents. If your design demands color or you’re aiming for the brightest effect, Kreinik shines.

- Sulky Glowy: The beginner’s friend and the large-project hero. Its ease of use, generous yardage, and long-lasting glow make it perfect for extensive coverage or for those just starting out with specialty threads.

If you’re stitching a Halloween scene with hidden ghosts, DMC’s subtle glow blends beautifully with white stitches, revealing secrets only in the dark. For a galaxy bursting with colored stars, Kreinik or Sulky’s color range lets your imagination run wild. And if you’re teaching a group of new stitchers, Sulky’s smoothness will keep frustration at bay.

5. Creative Applications and Project Inspiration

Glow in the dark thread isn’t just a novelty—it’s a creative superpower. With DMC E940 and its peers, you can design pieces that transform from subtle daylight elegance to nighttime wonder. Let’s explore how to make your embroidery come alive after dark.

5.1 Hidden Message Techniques and Accent Designs

Secret Messages and Surprises One of the most delightful uses of glow in the dark thread is hiding messages or motifs that only appear when the lights go out. Imagine stitching “Abracadabra” into a fairy tale scene, a constellation map that emerges at bedtime, or a “spooky family” portrait where ghostly outlines appear at night. These hidden elements add a layer of interactivity and surprise—perfect for children’s rooms, Halloween décor, or romantic gifts.

Celestial and Atmospheric Effects Glow thread is a natural fit for celestial themes. Use it to highlight stars, moon phases, or the Milky Way in a galaxy pattern. Accenting just a few stitches with E940 can mimic starlight, while denser fills create glowing moons or magical auroras. The subtlety of DMC’s glow makes it ideal for these atmospheric touches.

Accent Details Don’t limit yourself to the night sky. Add glowing eyes to animals, light up windows in a haunted house, or create magical trails behind fairies and fireflies. The thread’s transformation from white by day to green by night brings a sense of playfulness and depth to your work.

5.2 Design Integration Strategies

Balancing Day and Night Designs with glow in the dark thread need to look good in both light and darkness. The trick? Use glow thread as an accent, not the main event. Strategic placement—stars in a sky, outlines on a ghost, or secret words—maximizes the wow factor without overwhelming your composition.

Fabric and Strand Management For most projects, two strands of E940 cover 14-count Aida nicely, while a single strand suffices for higher-count fabrics. On dark fabrics, a hoop or frame is essential to keep tension steady and reduce friction (and thus fraying). Shorter thread lengths—no more than 15-18 inches—minimize tangling and keep stitches crisp.

Frame Usage and Workspace Tips A taut fabric is your friend. Use a hoop or frame to keep everything smooth, especially when working with thicker or specialty threads. If you’re stitching on black fabric, good lighting and careful hooping make a world of difference.

Charging for Maximum Impact Before revealing your masterpiece, give it a good charge under a lamp or sunlight. The more you charge, the brighter the glow—perfect for that dramatic nighttime reveal.

6. Charging and Maintaining the Glow Effect

The secret to a show-stopping glow isn’t just in the thread—it’s in how you charge and care for it. Here’s how to keep your stitches shining bright, night after night.

6.1 Optimal Charging Techniques

Light Sources: UV, Sunlight, and Artificial Light

Not all light is created equal when it comes to charging glow in the dark thread:

• UV/Blacklight: The gold standard. Just 30-60 seconds under a UV or blacklight will fully charge most threads, delivering the brightest and longest-lasting glow.
• Direct Sunlight: Highly effective, needing 1–20 minutes for a solid charge. Place your project or skein on a sunny windowsill for best results.
• Fluorescent/Artificial Light: Works in a pinch but requires longer exposure—think 20 minutes or more for a 3-hour glow. Incandescent bulbs are least effective, often needing hours to achieve a noticeable effect.

A quick rule of thumb: a 20-minute charge yields about 3 hours of visible glow. The initial minutes pack the biggest punch, so don’t skimp on pre-reveal charging.

6.2 Care and Longevity Preservation

Washing and Heat Guidelines

Glow in the dark threads need gentle care to keep their magic alive. Wash finished pieces with mild detergent in water below 104°F (40°C). Machine wash on delicate and dry on low heat if needed—but never iron or bleach your glow stitches. High temperatures can permanently erase the glow, even if the thread itself survives.

Storage Best Practices

Store your threads in a cool, dry place, away from prolonged sunlight when not in use. While light is essential for charging, too much UV over time can degrade the phosphorescent pigments.

Thread Handling and Stitching Tips

Stick to shorter thread lengths (15–18 inches) to minimize tangling and fraying. Use a needle with a slightly larger eye for smoother passage. Work at a slower, more deliberate pace, letting your thread untwist periodically. For maximum glow, layer stitches or use dense fills in key areas.

Pre-Project Charging Routine

Before showing off your work, expose it to UV light for a minute or sunlight for 10–20 minutes. This ensures your design is charged and ready to shine for hours.

Glow in the dark thread is more than a novelty—it’s a tool for storytelling, surprise, and sensory delight. Charge it right, care for it well, and your stitches will keep glowing, night after night.

7. Purchasing Guide and Availability Solutions

Finding DMC Glow in the Dark Thread (E940) can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt—especially during peak crafting seasons. Whether you’re planning a last-minute Halloween masterpiece or simply want to keep your stash well-stocked, knowing where to buy, how to spot the best prices, and what to do when shelves are bare will keep your creative spark glowing.

7.1 Retail and Online Sourcing Options

DMC E940 is a staple in the world of specialty threads, but its popularity means it often flies off the shelves. Here’s where you’re most likely to find it:

Major Brick-and-Mortar Retailers:

• Michaels, Joanns, and Walmart are your go-to sources for immediate, in-person purchases. These stores typically stock DMC E940 in their embroidery sections, making it easy to check availability and avoid shipping delays. However, inventory can vary by location and season, so it’s wise to call ahead or use online stock checkers.

Online Marketplaces and Specialty Stores:

• Etsy: Offers DMC E940 at around $2.66 per skein, but stock can be limited—one major seller recently had only three units left, with high demand pushing items into multiple carts at once.
• Honeybee Stamps: Lists the thread at $2.75 per skein, also with limited quantities (e.g., ten units left).
• Lucky Jonquil: Previously offered E940 at $2.70, but often shows “sold out” status, reflecting the thread’s high demand.
• Shipping Considerations: Some sellers offer free shipping on orders over $35, while others may charge individual shipping fees (around $4.65 for a single skein on Etsy).

Pricing Trends: Across all channels, pricing is remarkably consistent, typically ranging from $2.66 to $2.75 per skein. This narrow band suggests minimal markup and a stable market price.

Seasonal Stock Patterns: Demand for DMC E940 spikes from September through November, aligning with Halloween and autumn-themed projects. Expect lower availability during these months, with restocks more common in the quieter crafting months of January through July.

Pro Tip: When you spot DMC E940 in stock—especially online—consider buying a few extra skeins. Like a squirrel hoarding acorns, you’ll thank yourself when the next creative project (or seasonal rush) arrives.

7.2 Alternative Solutions for Shortages

What if you’re ready to stitch, but DMC E940 is nowhere to be found? Don’t let a supply hiccup dim your creativity—there are excellent alternatives and smart strategies to keep your project on track.

Brand Alternatives:

• Kreinik is the top substitute for DMC’s glow in the dark thread. Their model 052F (Glow-in-the-Dark Grapefruit) offers a comparable effect, though with a slightly different color match. Kreinik threads are renowned for their superior brightness under blacklight and come in a wider range of colors, making them ideal for projects demanding maximum luminescence.
• Sulky also offers glow-in-the-dark threads in a six-pack of vibrant shades, praised for their smooth handling and long-lasting glow.

DMC Product Line Extensions: If your project relies on UV-reactive effects rather than true glow-in-the-dark, DMC’s B5200 thread is a clever alternative. Under blacklight, B5200 shines even brighter than E940, making it perfect for party decor or designs meant to pop under special lighting.

Bulk-Buying Strategies: When you find DMC E940 in stock, especially during off-peak months, consider purchasing in bulk or multi-pack configurations. This not only guards against future shortages but can also save on shipping costs.

Multi-vendor sourcing—checking both physical and online retailers—boosts your chances of success.

Seasonal Planning: Anticipate project needs ahead of high-demand periods. Stock up in the summer for fall and winter projects, and always keep a backup plan in mind.

Summary Table: Sourcing and Alternatives

8. Machine Embroidery and Commercial Applications

Glow in the dark thread isn’t just for hand-stitched surprises—it’s making waves in machine embroidery and large-scale production on industrial embroidery machines, too. But using DMC E940 (or any specialty thread) on a commercial embroidery machine requires a few technical tweaks and workflow upgrades to shine at its brightest.

8.1 Machine Settings and Technical Setup

Needle Selection:

• Opt for a metallic needle (size 75/11) or a sharp embroidery needle with an enlarged eye. This reduces friction and minimizes thread breakage—essential for slippery, specialty threads like DMC E940.
• For knit fabrics, a ballpoint needle is best; for tightly woven materials, stick with sharp needles.

Tension Calibration:

• Start with polyester thread tension settings, but be prepared to adjust. Recommended tension ranges: 120–150g upper thread tension and 18–25g bobbin tension.
• Always test on scrap fabric first, making incremental adjustments to avoid puckering or loose stitches.

Speed Reduction:

• Slow your machine down! Lower speeds reduce friction and prevent breakage, especially important for glow threads prone to fraying and kinking.

Thread Length and Conditioning:

• Keep working lengths under 18 inches to prevent tangling and kinking.
• Run the thread through a conditioner or lightly along a damp sponge for smoother passage.

Hooping and Stabilization:

• Even fabric tension is critical. Use a hooping system that distributes pressure evenly—magnetic embroidery hoops are especially effective for this, ensuring the fabric stays taut without damaging delicate threads.
• Pair with a sheer mesh cutaway stabilizer for knits and T-shirts, supporting the fabric without adding bulk.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Thread Breakage: Replace needles regularly, keep the thread path clean, and consider a non-staining silicone spray for smoother thread delivery.
• Tension Problems: Adjust gradually, test frequently, and let the thread and needle hang freely to untwist and prevent knots.

Design Selection:

• Choose less dense, open designs for best results with glow threads, as bulkier patterns can exacerbate tension and breakage issues.

8.2 Efficiency Solutions for Garment Production

Scaling up your glow-in-the-dark embroidery? Efficiency and defect reduction become the name of the game. Here’s how to keep your production line running smoothly—and how the right tools can make all the difference.

Bulk Purchasing and Inventory Planning:

• DMC E940 is available in multi-pack configurations from some suppliers, making it easier to secure enough thread for large orders. Plan ahead, as specialty threads can have longer lead times due to centralized production.

Workflow Optimization:

• Consistent machine settings, proper stabilization, and regular maintenance reduce thread waste and minimize downtime.
• For commercial environments, separating thread inventory by type and color (especially since E940 appears white in daylight) helps prevent mix-ups.

Defect Reduction:

• Using high-quality hoops is crucial. Traditional plastic hoops often struggle with fabric slippage and uneven tension, leading to misalignment and wasted garments.

Enter Magnetic Embroidery Hoops—A Game Changer:

• Sewtalent magnetic embroidery hoops (for garment embroidery) revolutionize the hooping process. Their powerful magnetic clamping system automatically adapts to varying fabric thicknesses, ensuring even tension and dramatically reducing misalignment.
• Time Savings: What used to take 3 minutes per hooping can now be accomplished in just 30 seconds—a staggering 90% reduction in setup time.
• Durability: Unlike traditional hoops that wear out or lose grip, Sewtalent magnetic hoops are engineered for longevity, standing up to the rigors of high-volume production.
• Compatibility: These hoops fit most commercial embroidery machines, making them a versatile upgrade for any production environment.

Why It Matters:

• Saving time on every garment adds up—freeing your team to focus on quality control and creative details instead of repetitive setup.
• Fewer misaligned designs mean less wasted material and happier customers.

Summary Table: Commercial Workflow Enhancements

Note: Sewtalent magnetic hoops are designed for garment hooping, not suitable for cap or hat embroidery.

9. Conclusion

DMC E940 Glow in the Dark Thread is more than just a novelty—it’s a creative powerhouse, offering hidden design possibilities, robust durability, and a spark of magic for every project. Whether you’re hand-stitching a secret message or powering through commercial embroidery runs, mastering the right stitching and maintenance techniques will keep your glow shining bright.

Remember to plan your purchases, experiment with machine settings, and don’t be afraid to try new tools—like magnetic embroidery hoops—to unlock higher efficiency and better results. The world of glow in the dark embroidery is full of surprises, so let your imagination lead the way and watch your creations come alive after dark.

Ready to light up your next project? Grab your DMC E940, charge it up, and let your stitches glow!

10. Frequently Asked Questions

10.1 Q: How long does the glow last?

A: DMC Glow in the Dark Thread (E940) typically glows for 15 minutes to 3 hours after being charged with light. The glow duration depends on how much light the thread has absorbed—brighter, longer charging (especially under UV or sunlight) leads to a more pronounced and longer-lasting effect. Most users find the initial glow is strongest and then gradually fades, but even after the visible glow dims, a subtle effect can linger in darkness.

10.1 Q: Can I iron finished pieces with DMC Glow in the Dark Thread?

A: No, ironing is not recommended. Applying heat can damage the phosphorescent pigments embedded in the thread, causing the glow effect to fade or disappear entirely. If you must iron your project, do so very carefully—avoid direct contact with the glow-stitched areas, or use a pressing cloth and the lowest heat setting possible. However, the safest approach is to skip ironing over glow-in-the-dark stitches altogether.

10.1 Q: Why does my thread glow weakly?

A: Weak glow is almost always the result of insufficient charging. For best results, expose your stitched piece or the thread itself to a strong light source—preferably direct sunlight or a UV/blacklight—for at least 20 minutes. Artificial light (like standard room bulbs) is less effective and may require longer exposure. Make sure nothing is blocking the light from reaching your stitches, and remember: the more you charge it, the brighter and longer it will glow.

10.2 Q: Can I mix DMC Glow in the Dark Thread with regular embroidery floss?

A: Absolutely! Mixing DMC E940 with standard threads is a popular technique for creating hidden effects—like secret messages or surprise accents that only appear in the dark. In daylight, E940 blends seamlessly with white or winter white floss, so you can substitute it for select stitches without disrupting your design’s look. When the lights go out, your hidden elements will magically appear.

10.2 Q: What is the best alternative if DMC Glow in the Dark Thread is out of stock?

A: Kreinik #8 Braid is widely recommended as the top substitute. Kreinik offers a range of glow-in-the-dark colors and is praised for its brightness and durability. While the texture is a bit stiffer and the color match may differ slightly, it’s an excellent choice for both cross stitch and embroidery when DMC E940 isn’t available.

10.2 Q: Is DMC Glow in the Dark Thread suitable for stitching on black fabrics?

A: Yes, it works well on black fabrics, especially when you use proper hooping techniques. The white appearance of E940 in daylight stands out against dark backgrounds, and the green glow effect is even more dramatic at night. For best results, keep your fabric taut in a hoop or frame to minimize friction and fraying, and use shorter thread lengths for cleaner stitches. With careful preparation, your designs will shine—literally—on even the darkest materials.