Be sure to use a "metallic needle". It has a larger eye that won't be as shredding on the thread. I agree that embroidery thread would be a nice alternative, especially if it's actually going to be a quilt, and not just a wall hanging. It would be much softer.

Sewers Aid is just a little plastic bottle of liquid you put on your spool of thread to keep things running smoothly. looks like the oil for your machine so don't get them mixed up.
I used to use it a lot when i bought cheaper cotton threads.

Superior Threads metallics are excellent, and guaranteed to work. I use them alot, and I free motioned with no problem on my Will-o'-the-Wisp quilt.
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-27510-1.htm
I always use a topstitch 90/14 as they recommend and have Bottom Line in the bobbin. It is better to sew on a slower speed with metallics too.

Sorry I meant to add that having the thread spool on its side (as opposed to upright) also helps. I put the spool on its side in a small plastic container behind my machine.

MOST embroidery needles ahve a large eye and are very sharp

Not all metallic threads work in every machine. Some shred easier than others. A metallic needle helps. I also find that sometimes I have to reduce the top thread tension to almost nothing to put less stress on the more fragile metallics. And then that doesn't always work. I love metallics and so have found ways around most problems. The last metallic I used, I could only get to work if I used the same metallic thread in the bobbin and left the tension alone. Good luck!
Marian :-)

Thanks for the info everyone.

nativetexan - have looked up Sewers Aid and just need to have a look to see where I can get it here.

Katrine - love the look of the gold fmq on black - just stunning.

I am not working today so am visiting my mum (an hours drive away) and pass a quilt shop on the way. I will have a look for silver metallic thread/needle/Sewers Aid.

Decision time this weekend.

Have you considered the Sulky blendable threads? they have a gazillion different colors and I often find these work very well when I can't find a good thread match.

I have some metallic thread I want to use someday. Thanks for all the great advice on this thread.

Found the Metalfil needle and silver Mettler Metallic thread yesterday. Have spent most of today trying it out but couldn't stop skipped stitches. Tried everyones various tips re tension, thread in jar etc. and have now decided to go with the Sulky thread for this project so I can just get it finished.

I will play with the metallic thread when I have more time and patience because I would really like to be able to use it on something. I figure if I can persevere with monofiliament, then metallic is not going to get the best of me :!: