Early trailblazers, the founders of DMC—Jean - Henri DOLLFUS, Jean Jacques SCHMALZER, and Samuel KOECHLIN—were the first to manufacture hand-painted Indian prints in Europe. This set the tone for a company that would thoughtfully stay ahead of others in the textile industry. Another example of the company’s pioneering spirit is when Dollfus junior discovered mercerizing—an invention by chemist John Mercer. Mercerizing is the process of passing cotton thread through caustic soda. It makes the thread stronger and gives it a silky appearance. This is the very same process DMC relies on today to create its world-renowned thread

Honoring Its Customers Through Quality

DMC holds the belief that ‘from one fine thread, a work of art is born.’ We take very seriously the fact that our textiles are the instruments from which artists and hobbyists create their pieces. From the 19th Century when Jean Dollfus-Mieg began a close and enduring friendship with famous embroiderer, Therese de Dillmont, to today’s close collaborations with artists around the world, DMC understands we are nothing without our loyal stitchers and textile artisans. From our pursuit of the perfect textile, to the high environmental standards we maintain at our factory, to our constant quest for different threads that will excite and inspire, DMC has the same respect and passion for craftsmanship and artistry as its customers. And that is why we have thrived in such an ever-changing world

Since 1746 DOLLFUS-MIEG & Compagnie—better known as DMC—can be found wherever people are stitching and creating. Though much has changed, DMC has stayed true to its founding principle of creating the finest textiles in the world. So while it was there to see world-changing inventions like that of the telephone, the locomotive, and the airplane, DMC has remained steadfast in maintaining the highest quality threads. We do it by honoring our heritage while also innovating for the future.

Honoring History

From the day the DMC factory opened through today, our employees continue to take great care in creating the finest thread in the world so that every project you work on can become exceptional. Our factory remains where DMC’s story began—in Mulhouse, France. Though the company has grown into a global operation with products in over 125 countries, its roots in this French city remain stronger than ever. It is impossible to talk about DMC’s history without acknowledging its affect on the city of Mulhouse itself.

Back in 1746, DMC did not simply open a factory in this small city of 4,000 people. It created a community. As the biggest employer in Mulhouse at the time, it took responsibility for employees by creating things like a school, a hospital, and employee housing. Its impact was so great that a museum, Le musee DMC, was created to celebrate the significance of the company. Although today DMC has employees around the globe, it continues to honor its history, and the place where it all began, by keeping the epicenter of its operation — its factory — in the place it considers home

Looking Ahead:

Only passion for what you do can see you through two and a half successful centuries. We are so grateful for the people out there who have shared our love of craft. We’re also eager to spread our passion to the next generation. To that end, we are creating an online shoppe that encourages people of all ages to live a life handmade. Kits, ideas, and inspiration, alongside DMC’s finest threads—all with a modern point of view. We’re bringing together generations of makers, inviting everyone to share their passion for this time honored craft.

Here’s to the next 270 years.