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Thread: Using Metallic Thread

  1. #1
    verenaerin is offline Senior Member
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    Default Using Metallic Thread

    I've been thinking of making table runners for Christmas gifts. For example the one using the current DD wedge. To decorate the Christmas trees in that particular runner, I thought using metallic thread would be a nice touch. I think I would sew it through just the top and batting (or just the top, then sandwich, then quilt the rest of the runner.

    Questions-
    1. Is it wise to use metallic thread in something that would be washed often?
    2. Is this how you would add the metallic thread accents to your runner?
    3. What kind of wash recommendations would you make?

    Thanks in advance.

  2. #2
    MissyB is offline Junior Member
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    Default Re: Using Metallic Thread

    I'm curious to see recommendations for this also!

  3. #3
    TamiLee is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: Using Metallic Thread

    Well... my moto has always been 'the more glitz the better!' I absolutely LOVE the metallic threads! I have used the "Superior" brand metallic, as it is guaranteed for quilting and embroidery. Since I haven't had the best luck with embroidering with the metallic threads - multiple breakage and shredding - I had to try the Superior brand. I LOVE it!! I have done embroidery (quite a bit, actually) with the threads, and it works like a charm! I've quilted with it, also. It gives such a beauty and sheen, and really dresses up any design and/or quilted project. If you like 'glitter and glitz', I'd sure use it! Have had no problems with it. But you would want to use a larger needle, say a 90, with a larger eye. I think I also used the titanium, but not 100% sure on that. Just use regular thread in the bobbin, and you're good to go!!

  4. #4
    Sharyn J's Avatar Sharyn J is online now Senior Member
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    Default Re: Using Metallic Thread

    I haven't used the Superior brand but I've used plenty of Sulky. I stitch through all the layers of my table runners, including the back. You need a #14/90 needle, metallic, topstitch, or embroidery needle.

    Make longer stitches and sew slow. I only use a straight stitch for the topstitching. Never tried any other decorative stitches as I was afraid the thread would keep breaking. The top tension will need to be set lower and the spools feed better if placed on a vertical spool pin or holder.

    The metallic threads add some nice sparkle. It washes and drys just fine with no special treatment necessary.

  5. #5
    verenaerin is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: Using Metallic Thread

    Thank you so much for your expertise ladies. I love the sparkle. I was told to use poly in the bobbin, but I see you can use cotton. I guess it's best to experiment and see what works.

    I am glad it washes and dries ok, I don't want to make something that you can't use. It would be like giving a mother a "dry clean only" outfit for a 18mo.

  6. #6
    Missouri Star

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    Default Re: Using Metallic Thread

    Quote Originally Posted by verenaerin View Post
    Thank you so much for your expertise ladies. I love the sparkle. I was told to use poly in the bobbin, but I see you can use cotton. I guess it's best to experiment and see what works.

    I am glad it washes and dries ok, I don't want to make something that you can't use. It would be like giving a mother a "dry clean only" outfit for a 18mo.
    Or a mother a "dry dean only" outfit for herself! So much of parenting young kids involves mess!

  7. #7
    Hulamoon's Avatar Hulamoon is online now Senior Member
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    Default Re: Using Metallic Thread

    Try out the Superior Glitter line. It's super shiny. They have some hints and tricks on the site too.



    Lorie

  8. #8
    Alpha O's Avatar Alpha O is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: Using Metallic Thread

    I've used metallic threads for almost everything over the years. If you are planning to FMQ with it, try to find one made for high speed quilting, or high speed embroidery. Threads have improved greatly. I had thread breaking on machine embroidery until I saw the big Bernina 830 going full speed with OESD Ymnet. Didn't break, didn't snarl. Other makers have now put out improved thread, so it's worth the time and money to get the right one. Save a lot of frustration.

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