Thread Converter

Embroidery Thread Converter: DMC to Anchor & Anchor to DMC

Q: Can I mix both brands in one project?

Yes, but avoid mixing them for the same colour block. If you use DMC 310 and Anchor 403 for the same section, the subtle difference in sheen might be visible under natural light.

Q: What should I do if a match looks off?

Always check your threads in natural daylight. If a substitute doesn't look right, try looking at the shades immediately above or below it in the conversion chart to find a better tonal match for your specific fabric.

Convert embroidery thread colours between DMC and Anchor quickly and accurately. This tool helps you find the closest equivalent threads when substituting colours, whether you’re following a specific pattern, replacing unavailable threads, or simply working with a different brand in your stash.

1 Which way do you want to convert?

Choose your starting brand and we’ll find the equivalent in the other.

2 One thread or a whole list?

Single is great for a quick check. Batch lets you convert a full pattern list at once.

3 Enter your thread number

Which DMC code do you want to convert?

Type it exactly as it appears on the label or in the pattern, for example 310, 3746, or Blanc.

While DMC and Anchor are both high-quality, six-strand cotton threads, their dye formulas and numbering systems are unique. Our embroidery thread converter uses a comprehensive mapping database to identify the closest visual match, ensuring your cross-stitch or embroidery project maintains its intended look even when switching brands.

DMC to Anchor Conversion Chart (Top Colours)

A quick reference for the most commonly used DMC shades and their closest Anchor equivalents. Each swatch shows the actual thread colour. Use the tool above to look up any code not listed here.

DMC to Anchor Thread Conversion Chart — Most Popular Colours
DMC	Colour Name	Anchor
310	Black	403
Blanc	Blanc	1 / 2
Ecru	Ecru	387
B5200	Snow White	1
3865	Winter White	926
666	Bright Red	46
321	Red	47 / 9046
498	Dark Red	1005
817	Coral Red	13
815	Medium Garnet	47
550	Very Dark Violet	101 / 102
312	Very Dark Baby Blue	979
3750	Very Dark Antique Blue	1036
700	Bright Green	228
434	Light Brown	310
606	Bright Orange Red	334
725	Topaz	305
318	Light Steel Gray	399
414	Dark Steel Gray	235

How It Works

Choose your conversion direction. Select whether you are converting DMC to Anchor or Anchor to DMC using the direction buttons at the top of the tool.
Enter your thread code. Type your thread number into the input field. Use Quick Lookup for a single code, or Bulk Convert to paste an entire pattern list at once.
View your matched thread. The tool returns the closest equivalent with the colour name, match confidence rating, and a colour swatch so you can compare visually before buying.

Our converter maps thread colours between brands by comparing the hex values and dye profiles of each shade. Because each company uses independent manufacturing processes, these conversions are approximate — the tool finds the closest available shade, but always trust your eye when a perfect transition is required for fine gradient shading.

When to Use a Converter vs. Colour Matcher

Choosing the right tool depends on the information you have:

Thread Converter: Use this when you have a specific thread code (e.g. DMC 310) and need to find the equivalent number in another brand. It is a direct “code-to-code” translation.
Colour Matcher: Use our Colour Matcher when you have an image or a physical thread with no label. The Matcher uses visual recognition to suggest threads based on the pixels in your photo.

Popular Thread Conversions

Some threads are used in almost every pattern. For example, DMC 310 (Black) is the most searched conversion and is nearly identical to Anchor 403. Other popular conversions include DMC 321 (Christmas Red), which matches Anchor 9046 or 47, and DMC B5200 (Snow White), which typically maps to Anchor 1. Using these standard equivalents ensures consistency across your work.

DMC vs. Anchor: Key Differences

Why do we need a converter at all? The differences lie in the history and chemistry of the brands:

Dye Ranges: DMC offers over 500 solid colours, while Anchor typically has around 450. This means some DMC shades simply have no direct Anchor sibling.
Numbering Systems: DMC uses a legacy system (150–3866), whereas Anchor numbers range up to 9575. There is no mathematical pattern to the numbering.
Finish: DMC is known for a slightly higher sheen, while some stitchers find Anchor has a softer, more matte appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are DMC and Anchor threads exactly the same?

No. While they are both 100% stranded cotton, they use different dye formulas and have slightly different textures.

Can I mix both brands in one project?

Yes, but avoid mixing them for the same colour block. If you use DMC 310 and Anchor 403 for the same section, the subtle difference in sheen might be visible under natural light.

How accurate is this conversion tool?

Most conversions are 85–90% accurate. About 15–20% of colours may only have a “close enough” match because the exact shade doesn’t exist in the other brand’s range.

What is the Anchor equivalent of DMC B5200?

DMC B5200 (Snow White) is the brightest white in the DMC range and converts to Anchor 1. It is slightly brighter and cooler than DMC Blanc, which also maps to Anchor 1 or 2. Anchor 1 is the closest match to B5200, while Anchor 2 is slightly warmer and closer to Blanc.

Which brand is better, DMC or Anchor?

It is largely a matter of preference and availability. DMC is the global standard for most patterns, while Anchor is highly regarded for its softer feel and is very popular in the UK and Europe.

What should I do if a match looks off?

Always check your threads in natural daylight. If a substitute doesn’t look right, try looking at the shades immediately above or below it in the conversion chart to find a better tonal match for your specific fabric.

Why is my thread code not found?

You may be trying to convert a variegated, metallic, or discontinued thread. Our current tool focuses on the core stranded cotton ranges for DMC and Anchor.