Update on using Metallic Thread
 

Thanks to all who posted their suggestions for using metallic thread.
I really appreciate it. I contacted Superior Thread, (that is what I,m using),
and was told to use a size 18 needle and lower the tension all the way down.
Well, I did that and still have the same problem of the thread breaking. They
told me to get back to them if that didn't work. So far I have not because I
went on to other projects because of the frustration.
I will contact them again and see what they say next. I don't know what is
left. I am going to get some Sewers Aid and try that ad see what happens.
Again, thanks to all who responded to my problem.
Elaine:(

Years ago I made what I called The Christmas Wallhanging from Hell. It was really cute until I went to quilt it with metallic thread. No problems for the first half, but after awhile the thread broke over and over again. Nothing I did helped. I finally gave up in frustration and it turned into a UFO. Periodically I would pull it out and try again, but no go -- the metallic thread broke constantly. Many years later I ran across it and gave it another try -- same thread, same machine, same wallhanging. No problems.

My best guess is that there was a tiny bit of metallic lint stuck somewhere in the bobbin area or upper tension discs of the machine. It was not enough to interfere with other threads, but the metallic thread went ballistic with it. Over time and with lots of other sewing, the lint finally dislodged.

Is it too late to switch to a different metallic thread? I have heard that Glide's metallic thread is much less likely to break (although judging by the following link, this is not always true). Here is a link that may be helpful to you:
http://rhondabracey.com/2014/04/29/h...allic-threads/

Note: She mentions at the bottom of that website that it is very important to use a thread net. The thread net adds tension, so reduce upper tension a little to compensate. Plus Sewers Aid seems to help.

When I had troubles after a long period of no troubles, then the troubles resolved again, a notions dealer told me I had likely just hit a bad spot in the thread. Apparently, metallic threads can be prone to this.

I am glad to see all these comments about metallic threads. I bought several different brands several years ago. It's time to find them and see which I like. Now to find a project.

Not a frequent user of metallics, but doesn't it make difference if it feeds vertically or horizontally...not sure which is correct, I always have to check my notes when I do it.

I have quilted with metallic for a long time and they are not worth all the problems that can occur. I found a substitute from Superior thread called Nature Colors. There gold is true to color and looks great while also being polyester. I am from the OLD school of quilting but this thread is better than metallic any day of the week.

See if this is helpful. I enjoyed them all and learned a lot about thread.

https://youtu.be/YzD-oNHrVIY?list=UU...01QRL-QPUNrCbg

peace

how are you feeding it, horizontal, vertical, that could be your problem

I,m feeding it vertical. Should it be horizontal?

Thanks for the link. I just watched and must admit, it was very interesting. Lots of good tips.