Working with “wool” thread
 

I am trying to do some machine applique and I have some 12 wt. “wool” thread I’m trying to use. It keeps breaking on me. Is there a secret to using this stuff? Maybe a certain needle or size? Any help is greatly appreciated!

I don't think I've ever seen wool clothes sewn with wool thread. Maybe there's a reason for that.

The 12 weight wool ( thread) is usually used for wool hand appliqué. It is not made to go through a machine. That doesn’t mean you can’t- if you get a really big needle ( our usual machine needles are for 40,50,60 weight threads- you are trying to put a Much thicker, heavier thread into your needle- you need a needle for 12 weight threads) then you would need to really work at your tension, loosen it so the thread is not being shredded in the tension disks. It probably could be done. You may waste a lot of your thread trying to get everything correct though. It’s made for hand work- we use chenille needles or large embroidery needles when using it.

My thoughts are purely speculative. I do know that the wool thread is meant for hand applique. It has a very low twist and that is why it would break easily when going through the machine tensions and needle. But, there is thread, wash-away thread, that will go through the machine. It is intended for temporary holding. So, to my theory. If you used a large needle (I don't know the size of your wool thread) and paired it with the wash-away thread (treat the two together as one unit) it might work. Then, use water on a Q-tip to melt away the wash-away thread. I think it might be worth a try.

I wasn't sure how thick the 12 wt thread was. In the "good ol' days" it was suggested that if you wanted to work with thicker thread one would hand wind the bobbin with it. It was also suggested that you get an extra bobbin case to use with the thicker thread so one wouldn't have to mess with the bobbin tension for regular sewing. With the advent of machines where that isn't practical, it appears as though they started making needles with larger eyes such as denim and top stitching/metallic needles.

I did some research and found https://www.aurifil.com/products/aurifil-wool and https://www.fatquartershop.com/aurif...l-12-wt-thread The second link gives some tips to use when using the 12 wt thread with a sewing machine. I'm not absolutely sure, but I think the top stitching needle has a more universal point, but the denim needle has a sharp point. I know that some feel the universal point is "universally good for nothing." I would think that if the denim needle has a large enough eye for the thread to pass smoothly through, it would be a better choice.

I hope this helps, as it looks like the 12 wt thread can be used in the sewing machine.


Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.

I got some wool applique from the Wooly Lady and also the wool thread. I used a size 90 needle and did a blanket stitch around the shapes. It worked fine for me.

Yes! This is the stuff I have. Thank you!

You are most welcome. I hope you post pictures and what tips you used to sew it.


Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.

I have never used wool thread. Whenever I use thicker thread or have trouble with thread breaking I use a denim needle.