quilter on the eastern edge

Does anyone here use metallic threads? I have used them to add a little bit of sparkle and embellishment to several projects I have done but here's the thing.......

The thread keeps breaking! I am using a metallic needle with the larger eye and a longer stitch length but still the thread breaks every now and again. It is annoying!

Does anyone else have this problem?

ckcowl

metallic threads when stitching too fast will stretch- and break- so along with the right needle- slowing down is necessary.

jmabby

Yes, I also have that problem, good advice from ckcowl

quiltsillysandi

I love sewing with metallic thread and recently went to a seminar by Sulky....They have a metallic thread line called Holligram, that is way cool and shimmers, sparkles, ect...I tried it, using a metallic specific needle, slowed down, and it worked great...

nycquilter

also, you need to loosen your tension a lot. That, plus, use Sew Ease, it's a silicon lubricant. Apply sparingly to the spool of thread, about one row, vertically from top to bottom of the spool. You'll need to re-apply it as you go. I've found this works the best and I now can use metallics with ease.

TanyaL

Glad to hear about Sew Ease. I thought everyone always had metallic thread to break; that it was just the nature of the beast - kind of like living with a teenage daughter with PMS whose boyfriend asked another girl to the dance! LOL

mudsprite

Thank you for the excellent advice for using metallic thread. I had heard about the lubricant to use on the thread but not seen it in my local shops or Joann's yet. Guess I will venture farther afield. I hate that, I might find some more beautiful thread or fabric. darn!!

PaperPrincess

The way it unspools can also make a difference. Try using a thread stand, or put the spool in a drinking glass and put the glass to the back and right of your machine. Have the thread come over the top of the machine.

niizh

Go to superior threads. They have a lot of good info on metallic threads. I get their newsletter which has good info also

cmagee84

All of you ladies are wonderful! As I was reading your posts I was thinking of what to add in my comment. By the time I got to the bottom of the page, you all had it covered!

LOVE this board!!!!