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/