Have been finishing up a runner, hand quilting it with variegated thread. I originally was working with a dark C & C brown thread, but it was so hidden in the background material that I ripped it out and went with a gold/ brown variegated. It has been a slow go because the thread itself seems more fragile than the solid types I’ve been working with. What ends up happening is the thread gets worn from where it rubs along the needle eye, eventually causing problems. I could either move the needle down occasionally, or use shorter lengths, which is what I ended up doing.

Has anyone else experienced this problem with thread, variegated or otherwise?

Are you using a quilting needle? Try to adjust the thread up or down periodically. Beeswax can help a lot.

Use an 18" length of thread and do move the needle up as you use up the thread. Leaving the needle in one spot too long will wear on any thread. (been there...)

hi steve I'm some what new to the board i use to have the same trouble! but now i run my thread thru bee's wax and i do move my needle from time to time. you would be surprised at how well the bee's wax works! i sure was :D hope this helps tj

I really don't think it has anything to do with the coloring but anytime you use regular cotton thread for hand sewing it wears quickly against the needle and from going through the fabric repeatedly. I use beeswax , it makes it more like hand quilting thread, it seems thinner, I guess because it's all stuck together, it works just fine.

Hi Steve,
Is it the quilting varigated thread you are using? There're so many types now, but the bees wax is your best bet if you are trying to use the general purpose varigated. I've never had a problem with my varigated quilting thread with C&C threads, except for tangling. I always forget to allow the needle and thread to "dangle" to unwind after every couple of inches.

I'm way to intense at times, huh?
Hugs,
Sharon

I know hat you mean, a friend suggested o me to use the bees wax it helps ry this

There's another excellent product out there called Thread Heaven. It's the same idea as bees wax, but leaves no stickiness or residue on the needle, thread or fabric. Many of the variegated threads work best when machine quiting; hand-quilting thread has an additional coating process that helps to prevent tangles, breaks and knots. Hopefully a coating of bees wax or thread conditioner will help.

Thanks all! I've the two long runs down the side and the quilting portion will be done. I'll probably stop by Joanne's today before work and see what they have. I want to finish this before the holidays so I'd better step on it. :D

Steve,

When cutting your thread length, cut it twice as long as you usually do. Quilt half of the thread in one direction while allowing the other end to be loose until the first half is gone. Then rethread your needle with the loose end and quilt in the opposite direction. This takes some planning but you will have fewer knots. -- Do slide your needle often!!!

I also use Thread Heaven to condition my threads while I do applique but never thought of using it for hand quilting BUT I will give it a try.

Suzanne