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I am making a Christmas table runner and would really like to use some sparkling metallic thread but I'm not sure if I would be able to use this on my machine.
Would I need to change the tension? Would I need a different needle?
any advice would be appreciated.
From what I remember seeing on different threads most people say to use a bigger needle, something about the eye being bigger so it doesn't fray the thread.
Commenting to follow - I have the same questions!
I just got into metallic threads and the tips I have is to get a metallic needle and yes the hole is bigger. I saw it suggested to use the spool holder that is vertical if you have one, it comes off the spool easier without tightening up. It is plastic thread. lol Next is to make your stitches longer so that the threads show up better when the light bounces off it. I bought two types from superior thread and I REALLY suggest the glitter. It's made like a hologram and it is SHINY! lol
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One last thing that it goes all over the place, meaning it comes off the spool real easy. So those nets to put on spools is a good thing to have. I use candy lei netting and cut mine to size.
http://www.craftingisfun.com/detail.aspx?ID=1284
I love to use metallic thread on my holiday table runners and wall hangings.
Use a needle made for metallic thread, Shmetz, Metafil, and I'm sure there are other brands. Or, you can use a topstitch needle, which I think is size#14. An embroidery needle will also work. All of these needles have a longer hole which will allow better flow of the thread and virtually eliminate the thread fraying & breaking.
Use good quality metallic thread. Don't use the metallic lame type. It's like foil and too fragile. It's actually brighter and a bit more shiney than the regular metallic, but just too delicate. I didn't have good luck with it. I've used Sulky with success. There are many quality threads out there. You will use more than you think. One little spool doesn't go very far, so make sure you purchase enough.
I always take the spool and place it in a container or cup behind my machine. If you try to place the thread on your machine spool, use your spool cover. You need to be careful to see how it's winding off the spool. Sometimes, if the thread starts to spin off too fast, you may need a little spool net. Loosen your tension on the machine. You may also need to lengthen the stitch. Use regular thread in the bobbin, not the metal thread. You may also have to skip one guide when threading your machine. I usually skip the last guide (the one closest to the needle). You MUST slow down your speed or you will break the thread.
Sounds like a lot of work prior to sewing, but I assure you it only takes a few minutes to get set up and start sewing. Always make some practice swatches before you go to your project. Once you have a nice stitch, you're on your way!
Whatever you are doing with it - SLOW DOWN. Most machine embroiders will have problems with some metallics if they don't.
I've used them for crazy quilting with a Pfaff 1475 and slowed that down. No breakage. I made metallic highlighted fabric for quilting.
The 1475 was not a hoop machine, but you could program stitches through a computer.
I can also tell you that the metallics will often try to loop up due to static - thread the metallic thread through a styrofoam peanut right off the spool, and then go through your normal threading pattern.
You will love it when you get all systems GO in the right order.
I find this thread fascinating. I've always been intimidated by metallics/glittery thread and feel so much more informed now. My only duh uh question is = what type of thread for the bobbin? All rotten fruit thrown will be returned to sender . . . or sent to Sandy . . .
Good question. No fruit comin' from this direction!! I'd like to know the answer to this one, too. Anyone??.....Quote:
Originally Posted by Blondie
just found the answer to our question Blondie.. It was in post from SharnJ:
Use regular thread in the bobbin, not the metal thread. You may also have to skip one guide when threading your machine. I usually skip the last guide (the one closest to the needle). You MUST slow down your speed or you will break the thread.
I guess if there is rotten fruit comin', then it's comin' my way too. Oops!!
Blondie I have only used it on mug rugs. I sewed through the top and batting with regular thread in the bobbin. Followed the design panel. Then I put the backing on. It would of been a mess in the back if I did all three layers.I love these little panels.
Attachment 53892Attachment 53893
It's so hard to see but I outlined everything in the glitter.
thank you for all the advice. I will buy some sparkly thread and have a practice to see if my machine likes it.
I used some metallic silver thread. It was expensive but I've lost the sticker with the name on :( I didn't change the needle or slow down and it sewed normally. I didn't realise I had to change the needle.
I bought some cheap black metallic thread from the Festival of Quilts and it was a nightmare. It knotted and frayed and broke and bounced off the reel. I had to give up in the end and finished the quilting in normal black thread.
I wish I'd seen this tread before I started sewing with the black.
I've used metalic thread in my embroidery machine and I find that if I slow the speed down from what I normaly use it helps quite a bit. I think it would probably be the same for a sewing machine. I love the sparkle it gives for holiday items.
Okay, who is responsible for this??????????????
http://www.endlessimpact.com/wp-cont...tten-fruit.jpg
It wasn't me - lol!!!
Hugs,
My notes above were based on my experience with a sewing machine. I don't have embroidery machine. Also, to be noted is the suggestions I made were the things that worked best for me and my Bernina. Every machine is different and you may find that some things work and some don't for your particular machine.
I found that tension and speed were the main adjusters. If after loosening tension, the thread still seemed to pull tightly or break, I would remove the thread from the last guide by the needle; however, sometimes I would skip a different guide. Just experiment. One thing that I forgot to mention is to bring up your bobbin thread to the top before you start stitching and also to hold onto the threads as you start and before you stop and cut............otherwise the metallic thread will quickly spiral upwards and unthread itself from your needle.
Using the metallic thread around appliques is especially fun! Hard to see, but click on the pic twice to expand.
Attachment 53899Attachment 53900
Thank you for all your help. I will try it out on scraps when I purchase some thread.Quote:
Originally Posted by Sharyn J
Your birds are beautiful, I can see where you have used the thread, it looks really good. - I must try !! LOL
Wish I had been on this forum when I tried metallic thread. It was a disaster and somehow within just a few minutes the entire spool of thread had unwound and was at my feet. Hadn't gotten the nerve to try it again, but now I might.
