DMC 3808 to Sullivans: Thread Conversion

Sullivans 45405 is rated close for DMC 3808 Ultra Very Dark Turquoise and covers the general deep teal-blue territory adequately for most shadow and depth applications. Sullivans' characteristic sheen is essentially invisible at this ultra-dark saturated value — very dark colors absorb surface quality differences completely, and the sheen concern that applies to lighter Sullivans threads does not apply to 3808's deep shadow position. In aquatic scenes, gemstone shadow shading, mosaic tile depth positions, and coral reef underwater fills where this thread anchors the bottom of the turquoise value sequence, Sullivans 45405 serves its shadow function at a level adequate for most practical decorative stitching. For designs where the ultra-dark turquoise position is doing precise gradient work — specifically in sequences where the exact value gap between 3808 and 3809 is the designed contrast — comparing the Sullivans equivalent alongside your lighter turquoise thread under daylight confirms that the value contrast at the dark end of the gradient reads as substantial and intentional rather than collapsed. Dye lot consistency is worth verifying when sourcing multiple skeins for large ocean background fills and extensive mosaic shadow areas where consistent depth across many stitches is required.