What Products Fall Under Trademark Class 23? Explained for Yarn & Thread Businesses
Introduction
In today’s competitive world, every business needs strong branding to stand out. Whether you are manufacturing textiles, fabrics, or any fashion-related products, protecting your brand name is crucial. Trademarks help you safeguard your identity, ensuring that no competitor can misuse or copy your brand.
When it comes to trademarks, goods and services are divided into 45 different classes. Out of these, Trademark Class 23 is specifically reserved for “yarns and threads for textile use.” If your business deals with yarns, sewing threads, embroidery threads, or related products, then your trademarks must be registered under this class.
This blog provides a complete list of products covered under Class 23, along with explanations, examples, and why choosing the right class matters. By the end, you’ll know whether your product falls under this category and how to protect your brand legally.
What Is Trademark Class 23?
Trademark Class 23 covers all yarns and threads used in textile applications. These are materials used to make fabrics, garments, embroidery, and other textile-related products.
Some industries that commonly use Class 23 include:
- Textile and garment manufacturers
- Embroidery and handicraft businesses
- Sewing and stitching industries
- Yarn and thread producers
If your brand manufactures or sells such products, you should register under Class 23 to secure your rights.
Why Choosing the Right Trademark Class Matters
When applying for a trademark, one of the biggest mistakes people make is selecting the wrong class. If you file under the wrong class, your trademark protection will not cover your actual products.
For example:
- If you produce sewing threads but mistakenly register under Class 24 (fabrics), your trademark won’t protect your thread brand.
- This means competitors could still use your brand name in the correct class (Class 23).
Thus, selecting Trademark Class 23 is vital if your business deals with yarns or threads.
Complete List of Products Under Trademark Class 23
Now, let’s explore the detailed list of products that fall under this category. These are officially recognized under Nice Classification (NCL), the global system used for trademark classification.
1. Yarns
- Definition: Long continuous strands of fibers used in weaving, knitting, and other textile manufacturing.
- Examples:
- Cotton yarn
- Wool yarn
- Silk yarn
- Synthetic yarn (nylon, polyester, acrylic)
- Blended yarn (mix of cotton and polyester)
- Use Case: Textile and garment production.
2. Threads for Textile Use
- Definition: Threads are thinner strands made from yarns, used for sewing, embroidery, or stitching fabrics.
- Examples:
- Sewing threads
- Embroidery threads
- Quilting threads
- Crocheting threads
- Upholstery threads
- Use Case: Used in tailoring, embroidery, quilting, and decorative stitching.
3. Embroidery Threads
- Definition: Special threads designed for embroidery work with sheen, strength, and color vibrancy.
- Examples:
- Rayon embroidery threads
- Metallic embroidery threads
- Polyester embroidery threads
- Use Case: Used in decorative clothing, sarees, uniforms, home décor, and handicrafts.
4. Sewing Threads
- Definition: Strong, fine threads used in hand sewing or machine stitching.
- Examples:
- Cotton sewing thread
- Polyester sewing thread
- Silk sewing thread
- Use Case: Used by garment manufacturers and tailoring businesses.
5. Knitting Yarns
- Definition: Soft yarns suitable for knitting clothes, accessories, and home textiles.
- Examples:
- Hand-knitting yarns (wool, acrylic, cotton)
- Machine-knitting yarns
- Use Case: Sweaters, scarves, caps, socks, and handmade items.
6. Crochet Threads
- Definition: Specially made threads suitable for crocheting patterns.
- Examples:
- Cotton crochet threads
- Mercerized crochet threads
- Use Case: Crocheted home décor items, clothing designs, and accessories.
7. Wool Yarns and Threads
- Definition: Natural fiber threads made from sheep’s wool, often warm and durable.
- Examples:
- Merino wool yarn
- Alpaca wool yarn
- Use Case: Winter clothing, blankets, and luxury fabric production.
8. Synthetic Yarns and Threads
- Definition: Man-made fibers designed to mimic natural fibers.
- Examples:
- Nylon threads
- Polyester yarns
- Acrylic yarns
- Use Case: Sportswear, upholstery, and industrial use.
9. Silk Yarns and Threads
- Definition: Luxurious and smooth fibers derived from silkworms.
- Examples:
- Raw silk yarn
- Mulberry silk thread
- Use Case: Designer clothing, sarees, embroidery, and premium textile production.
10. Industrial Threads
- Definition: Heavy-duty threads made for industrial purposes.
- Examples:
- Upholstery threads
- Threads for tents, sails, and tarpaulins
- Use Case: Used in manufacturing strong fabrics, outdoor gear, and heavy stitching.
Exclusions from Class 23
It’s equally important to know what does not fall under Class 23. Some items may look similar but are classified differently:
- Textile fabrics → Class 24
- Carpets, rugs, mats → Class 27
- Clothing → Class 25
- Raw fibers (not yet spun into yarn) → Class 22
So, always check carefully before applying.
Examples of Businesses That Should Register in Class 23
Here are some real-world examples of businesses that must file trademarks in Class 23:
- Yarn manufacturers (e.g., cotton or wool yarn producers)
- Embroidery brands selling threads for decorative stitching
- Handicraft brands that use crochet or knitting yarns
- Tailoring supply shops selling sewing threads
- Industrial thread suppliers for upholstery or outdoor fabrics
If your business falls under any of these, Class 23 is the right choice.
Benefits of Registering a Trademark in Class 23
- Exclusive Rights – Prevents competitors from using your brand name.
- Brand Protection – Safeguards your products like yarns, sewing threads, and embroidery threads.
- Customer Trust – Helps build credibility in the textile industry.
- Legal Security – Gives you the right to take legal action against infringement.
- Global Recognition – Helps in expanding your brand internationally.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Trademark in Class 23
- Conduct a Trademark Search – Ensure your brand name is unique and not already taken.
- Choose the Correct Class (Class 23) – Select yarns and threads as your category.
- Prepare the Application – Include brand name, logo, and product details.
- File the Application – Submit to the Indian Trademark Registry (or WIPO for international filing).
- Examination & Objections – Respond to any queries raised by the examiner.
- Publication in Journal – Your mark is advertised for public opposition.
- Trademark Registration – If no opposition, your mark gets registered.
Conclusion
Trademark Class 23 is the go-to category for yarn and thread brands. Whether you manufacture sewing threads, embroidery yarns, silk threads, or industrial yarns, this class ensures your products are legally protected.
By registering your brand in Class 23, you:
- Prevent competitors from misusing your name.
- Build strong recognition in the textile and fashion industry.
- Secure exclusive rights over your products.
If you are in the yarn and thread business, don’t delay trademark protection. Safeguard your brand today for long-term growth and credibility.
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