Metallic thread
 

I am making a Christmas block for an exchange and I want to use metallic thread...any tips or advice anyone can share? I have never used metallic thread and have been told it is hard to work with. Thanks for your help.

Be open to the new adventure, don't be afraid to adjust tension.

Make sure to do a test first, and the test needs to have the same number of layers and be made out of the same fabric you want to do use the metallic thread on.

Use the special metallic needle for your machine. I use regular poly or cotton thread in the bobbin to match the metallic thread. You also may need to experiment with how the thread comes off the spool. might need to use a thread stand and a thread net.
To be honest if you use a quality thread, it's not much more difficult than any other thread.

Ditto what PP said, especially about the needle.

I have been sewing with metallic thread all week. Like you I had many questions before I started. My LQS suggested I buy and use a product called Sewers Aid by Collins. They said use a jean needle but I used topstitch and slow down. i have not had any trouble at all.
Good luck, I am having a lot of fun with it.
I forgot to add how to use it. just run a fine line down the spool of thread.

Are you going to FMQ? If so, you'll be surprised at how much you'll need to adjust your top tension. Also, use a good quality thread (I like Superior) as well as a 90/14 Metallic or Topstitch (same) needle. Happy quilting :)

Take yourself to a quilt shop and ask for a needle for metallic thread. anything short of that, and You'll be crying.

I've used a lot of metallic thread in my machine. Mostly Sulky. I agree, use a Metallica needle, Sewers Aid and loosen your top tension. I sew on a Bernina Artista 180 and have to loosen the top tension down to 0 for some threads. I've also used a synthetic bobbin thread which doesn't seem to catch as much as cotton threads. Good luck and have fun!

I agree with what has been said. Use a metallic needle , adjust the tensions, and slow the speed. I did some quilting last year with metallic and used a size 14 jeans needle . The metallic needle kept shredding my thread. Metallic thread can be temperamental and testy but so worth the effort.

ditto the above & if thread (of any kind ) is shredding turn spool so thread feeds the opposite way. Like fish scales go with them & not against.

I also put the spool of thread farther away from the machine, usually in a container behind my machine.

Thank you so much for all of the wonderful advice...Getting ready to begin my project and hoping for the best. :)

I have better luck with thread like this if I put it on a separate spool holder away from the machine. This lessens the tendency to curl up and snap. The other tips about tension are really important also. Play with a sample at different speeds and tension to see what works best with your machine. Needles are also important. Have fun!

Superiorthread.com has a good discussion on metallic thread.

Looking forward to seeing your progress! Use a "metallic" needle as the eye of the needle and groove behind the needle is created special to avoid shredding of your metallic thread. I highly recommend Gutterman's poly wrapped metallic. It is readily available, affordable, and I find it easy to sew with.

Another thing I didn't notice mentioned in the above comments was to use a "grippy" thread in your bobbin. Generally I use a good cotton in a complementary color to the metallic I'm using - they help keep good tension when sewing and prevent looping. :)

I hope this is helpful! Good luck!

I have learned that not all metallic threads are equal.
They each have their redeeming qualities ... and some are outright horrid.

That being said, I haven't figured them out to the best yet ... and certainly am not a master.

My machine has a little silicone applicator pad that you run the thread thru, and that seems to help.
Also, threading it differently (as per the manual) is important too.



However, what I have found is that the thread seems to need it as it comes off the spool, as it twists and turns and can tangle so terribly. I seem to recall reading here on the QB that there is a liquid product you drop directly onto the spool to help out with this. Who knows more about this? ... and can help me? PLEASE! and THANKS!!

As mentioned above, a few lines down the spool with SEWER'S AID will usually solve the problems with metallics. It is a tiny bottle with tip and does excellent job.
, altho I've read somewhere that you should not use it too often or too much because it is not good for the "mechanics of modern machines. Does anyone know more about this "caution"?

Put your thread as far away from the machine as you can. Iput mine on the floor then up through the thread stand then to my machine. The thread needs to unwind as much as possible before going through the machine. I also loosen the tension and had the sewer's aid on hand, but did not need it. Good Luck.