I am working on some Christmas Coasters and Tablerunners, and I want to use Metallic thread and/or clear thread for the quilting. I have heard on other sites that these can be a pain to work with. I'm not working from any particular pattern, but in my head I see some very simple straight line quilting, using gold to highlight the metallic gold that appears in the fabric print. I'd like to use the gold in both the bobbin and the top thread, but would it be better to just use it in one? Any advice? I used the clear for top thread in this set and didn't have any problems. The second set will be just like this except I will be using black for the backing, and I just think the gold would dress it up and make it "jazzy", if I can use it for both.

I have never had much luck with clear thread. I do use the metalic threads. The secret is to use a metalic thread needle. It has a special eye that allows the thread to slide through without shredding.
I have also had a lot of success with couching fancy or heavy threads like glitzy yarn. Just feed the fancy thread by hand where you want it and zig zag over it with whatever color thread seems to show up the least. My Bernina has several special feet that have a tunnel in the bottom that holds the heavier thread or yarn in place while you stitch over it.

Where do you get the metallic thread needles. I have a very basic SINGER SIMPLE machine. Would it be better to use the metallic in the bobbin then?

I have purchased metalica needles from Nancy's Notions and my local sewing machine dealer. I have some made by Schmetz and the ones from Nancy's Notions are Klasse. I don't know about Singer. The only Singer I have is a featherweight. I know the needles for it are different.

I have used both the Monofilamet and metalic for years.
With the monofilament its all about the tension. Almost every brand ...I have to take the top tension way down. I also use a smaller needle , because the thread is very fine. I have used mono on the top with quilting weight in the bobbin and nice results. I do use a thread stand for the mono thread.
With Metalic thread its all about the needle , and a bit of tension adjustment. Do use a metalic needle and use a thread stand this helps the tension prior to going through the tension disks on the machine. I do find I need to work a bit slower/steady with metalic.
Great Info is on the Superior Thread web site. They have a whole video just about metalic thread. I have the best success with their metalic thread.
I do not typically use metalic in the bobbin, but do experiment on a sample piece with the exact fabrics and batting to get all of the little adjustments before starting on you project.

When I use metallic thread I make sure I use a metallic needle and use a thread net over the spool of thread. I think you can find both of these things at Nancy's Notions.

Just wanted to say thanks for the new topic and I love your tablerunner- I was wondering about the same thing. :)

These are good hints girls! Where can I look online to find good prices on these notions? I find it's kind of hard to find "extras" for my Singer Simple. I love my machine, but its hard to even find presser feet that fit it right and are affordable for my limited budget.

Thank you Susan. I love to make little projects with FQs. LOL. I've been "collecting" pretty Christmas FQs and trying out different patterns/projects to make and send as Christmas gifts.

I use YLI clear thread for quilting in all my quilts. I have never had a problem with using it on my Viking Rose. I don't make any adjustments on my tension, but I'm not sure if the machine does that on it's own.