What is the Difference Between Blanc, 3865, and B5200?

At first glance, it might seem nearly impossible to tell the difference between the White (Blanc), Winter White (3865), and Snow White (B5200) floss colors.

Some stitchers have a hard time differentiating these threads and others don’t even notice a difference at all.

You can describe many DMC colors this way. Some colors are so close that you may not notice a distinction. However, once you stitch these colors next to each other there is a slight contrast that occurs.

The difference between Blanc, 3865, and 5200 are their undertones. Blanc and 3865 have warm undertones, and 5200 has a slightly cool undertone. Because of these undertones, each floss color has its own purpose.

What are Warm and Cool Undertones?

Obviously, each of these colors is white, but each color has a slightly different undertone.

This distinction is more visibly noticeable on the DMC real floss color card, where the flosses are next to each other.

Keep in mind these differences are more noticeable in person, but that is debatable. Either way you won’t necessarily notice a distinction in these examples.

Some colors are warm colors – reds, oranges, and yellows. While some colors are cool colors – greens, blues, and purples. However, each color has warm or cool undertones.

For example, the color true red is a warm color on its own, but if you add purple (red-violet), it becomes more of a cool-toned color. I talk more about undertones in my article about color theory and cross stitch.

The same is true with neutrals. Blanc and 3865 have more a yellow tint. This will give your project a warmer, more natural feeling.

Snow White or B5200 has a slightly blue tint. This creates a brighter, more vibrant appearance.

Because of this subtle characteristic, these colors are used to produce different effects.

When Should You Use 3865?

Winter White, or 3865 is a soft, natural white. This color is slightly warmer than Blanc.

This white is best used for rustic patterns where a bright white would look out of place.

I also use this white as my color of choice for chalkboard designs. Again, this white is more toned down than the others so it’s a good option if you want your project to have a more natural appearance.

When Should You Use B5200?

As the name suggests, Snow White or B5200 is best used for snow and projects with stars.

Because of the floss’ blue tint, it appears brighter than the other whites. This floss is best used when you want the white of your project to stand out.

The contrast of this white looks best on dark backgrounds.

When Should You Use Blanc?

Blanc is your basic neutral white. This white has a slightly warm tint. Depending on the dye lot, I have noticed varying degrees of warmth, but this color should fall in between 3865 and B5200.

This white works with any project.

Can These Colors Be Substitutes for One Another?

If one of these color whites is charted and you do not have it in your stash, feel free to use another white as a substitute. This can be said for any color that you don’t have and feel like purchasing.

However, there will be a slight difference in the appearance of your project. With the examples given above, your project may not have the same contrast. Although usually the white you choose is a preference, keep in mind that there is this subtle variation between whites.

If you start with a particular white and then run out, do not use another one of these colors just because of convenience. For example, if you run out of 3865, do not continue with blanc.

Just like with any other near color, the colors will not be a perfect match and there will be a noticeable difference. These whites are different colors for a reason.

In addition, you should always try to purchase enough floss for any given project so that the dye lots match and you will not notice when one skein ends and another begins.

Final Thoughts

Whichever white you use for your projects is your choice. I mostly use blanc because it is the best generic white. You won’t notice the difference much if you only use this white in a project.

I use 3865 and B5200 sparingly depending on the project. The use of these colors can add more or less contrast when you want.

That being said using any one of these whites won’t make or break your project and feel free to substitute them for whatever colors you have in your stash.

Happy Stitching!