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Call Joann's back and ask if they have a topstitch needle for your machine. A topstitch needle is about the same as a metallic needle.

What machine are you using? On my Brother and Futura machines...I set the metallic cone in a cup behind the machine...and run the thread straight up to the thread guide. If your machine has a spiral guide anywhere...just go straight through, don't spiral. If you are using a spool...the thread needs to feed straight off the side of the spool, not over the top.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Amythyst02 (Post 5558591)

So taking your advice about the needle, I checked and of course I do not have one. So rather than jumping in my car and rushing to JoAnn's which is a good drive away, I called. And they don't have them!!!! Glad I did not just hop right over there. Going to check the LQS this morning, other wise I am going to have to order it online. I am amazed JoAnn's does not have them. I will order some sew slick too, since I am probaby going to have to order online,

Thanks everyone for your suggestions and help!!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Amythyst02 (Post 5554950)

I have just finished a very simple table runner for my DIL for Christmas. The fabric has gold thru out so I figured oh I would use gold thread. I am using a decorative stitch that kinda looks like a snowflake, and I am about ready to jump off a bridge. About every 3rd snowflake the thread breaks. Just the gold thread. I have rethreaded til I am blue in the face. Is there a trick to using this, I am sure I have used it before, but never experienced a problem like this. Its almost as if its shredding. Any suggestions?

Thanks so much!!!

Are you using a metallic needle? Maybe you need to just stop and let the needle cool after 2 snowflakes.

I've never used metallic thread in my quilts but after using them while doing counted cross stitch whenever I hear the word "metallic thread" I run screaming for the hills ;)

It is probably the needle you are using. The ones for metallic thread have rounded edges in the eye so it doesn't shred the thread

We are told that when doing machine embroidery with metallic thread, to have the thread on a thread stand behind the machine. That way it has time to relax a little before it gets to the machine. You might try that and hopefully it will help. Also use a metallic needle or one with a large eye.

I watched a video that showed how to use the metillic threads. Use a top stitch needle with tension turned to 0 -1. I have use this method without any shredding of thread. Works like a charm. I think the video was at Superior Threads.