I am free motion quilting a wall hanging and using metallic thread. The thread keeps breaking, It becomes thin and then breaks while going through the eye of the needle. Does anyone know what size needle I should probably use which I'm sure I'm not. Or any other little tricks

Thanks
Karen

I know there is a special metafil needle for metallic threads, and perhaps you need a larger eye on the needle. Also, when I was embroidering with it I had to slow my machine waaaay down.
This site has lots of info:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/art...es.html?cat=46

The only trick I have found that works for me is puting the metalic thred in the bobin and a solid that is similar on top like white for silver or tan for gold. then just put the top on bottom and quilt like you normaly would. try it on a sample pice some machines are more fussy and it still dosn't work.

I use metafil needles usually, but have also used Fons & Porters needles for decorative threads without a problem hope this helps!

Check you tension and use a needle for metallic thread. It may be that your machine just don't like that thread. I have one spool of embroidery thread that will not work on one of my machines.

Karen, I too experienced breaking of the Metallic thread due to the friction that builds up with metal threads rubbing on the metal needle. Yes a larger needle would help, also I had to learn to slow down. The Metallic Needle has a larger eye and is coated with Teflon to reduce this buildup of heat and it is also more expensive. The size is 80/20. Try this size first and see if it helps.

I also use a metafil #90 needle and sew slowly with the spool of thread upright...not horizontal. You also might have to adjust your tension. Try sewing on a sample first.

I had the same problem. My LQS sold me the special needles for metallic thread and also a liquid that I squeezed out, right on the spool of thread. Unfortunately, I am at work right now, and that product is at home, so I can't tell you the name of it. But those two things solved my problems.

This is a wonderful thread. I have some metallic thread I want to use but I need some instruction. Thanks

Expert advice that worked for me:


Superior Threads GUARANTEES our metallic threads will work in your machine. Follow these two simple guidelines:
1. Use a Superior Topstitch #90/14 needle with metallic thread.
2. Adjust the top tension all the way down to a "1."

See video about using metallic thread in your sewing machine, no matter which brand. http://www.superiorthreads.com/videos/chapter1/
http://www.superiorthreads.com/videos/chapter1/

That is what I learned on one of the quilt show videos as well.

I had the same problem when I FMQ a table runner with metallic. I was using the metallic needle I had to way reduce my top tension then all was well. Good luck and please post a picture of your project when you finally get it to work.

I am with you on this !!!! I had big trouble with metalic until I found Superior theads , they really are the best and expert. I use metalic all the time now.

One note: do not forget to use a thread holder ( like the type used for serger thread. It helps to relax the thread and give an even thread tension before it comes to the tension on your machine.)

There is an article in the most recent "The Quilting Life" magazine; the whole issue is devoted to threads and how to make them work for you. Check it out if these suggestions don't help you out, but it seems to me that their suggestions were similar to what has already been posted here (use a needle specifically for metallic thread, try to get one with the Teflon, larger eye, slow down, reduce tension ....). Wish I could be more assistance. Good luck.

Odessa

I always use a metallic needle but more important is the thread holder. I move it way behind my machine so the thread feeds easier into the machine. I haven't had to lower the tension.