paintedquilt

Does anyone use invisible thread (polyester) to machine applique? Is so, what size needle and sewing machine settings do you use?

BellaBoo

I can't use invisible thread. I end up with a mess. I switched to WonderFil Invisafil thread.
http://www.wonderfil.net/index_en.htm

redquilter

I get a mess also - thought it was just me.

butterflywing

i used YLI. it was very soft, BUT.... it messed up my tension and i had a bad time getting everything back where it belonged and every place it ended there where tiny pokeys that stuck out and itched even though i dragged it through the batting. it just worked it's way back out and itched like crazy. and that was the recommended brand for my machine. HAH! now, i would only use it for wallhangings or applique, where it sits on the surface. :evil: i don't know if it was poly or nylon.

lisalovesquilting

I like YLI the best. Doesn't tangle as much. I only use nylon because polyester can melt when ironed. I have to turn my tension down to about2-3. I use a size 75 quilting needle.

BellaBoo

the difference in poly or nylon:

Nylon (polyamide) thread will melt and fuse at a low temperature. Nylon thread goes brittle, yellows over time, and melts at low temperature. Unfortunately, most invisible monofilament thread is nylon.
Polyester monofilament invisible thread does not go brittle, or yellow over time or melt at low temperature. Polyester embroidery threads are made of long stapled fibers with a silk like finish which are them durable and color fast. They will not shrink or stretch so your embroidery motifs will not distort over time.

Katrine

Try Superior's Monopoly - very soft, and it's heat resistant. I use a 70/10 with it.

Scissor Queen

I've been using YLI invisible thread for years now. I always use cotton in the bobbin. I used to use a size 70/10 but I tried the 60/8s and I like them a whole lot better. The 60s don't leave holes like the 70s do. You do have to be very careful when doing turns not to break the needle since they're fairly fine.

Make sure when you're using an invisible thread you have the spool upright and the thread is coming off the side of the spool and not the end.

butterflywing

AHA!

Oklahoma Suzie

I have never used invisible thread.