Using metallic threads in projects, to add touches of shiny
sparkle, has always intrigued me. I’ve attempted a few times, then quickly
realized there is certainly a learning curve. Before National Sewing Month began, I knew
it would be a subject I would address during the month, so I made a note. Along
with this note, I found several websites dealing with machine sewing with
metallic threads for easy/quick reference. Well, today is the day!
Photo by Squishythings (Creative Commons) |
Here is the
shiny sparkle scoop:
At Threads,
they explained how manufacturers create the metallic threads. They also listed the
available brands and highly recommended trying different ones, to determine
which works best in the individual sewing machine. That makes sense. They
include “Special handling tips” which applies to the embroidery threads, too!
This is what I took from their tips (please read their article for the full
details – I’m not reinventing the wheel here!):
- Check tension
- ALWAYS: when changing colors, or re-threading, clip at spool and pull thread out (never ever pull thread – any thread in my opinion – backwards out the thread guides)
- Make sure the thread is straight, not all twisted up going through the thread-feeding system.
- They say some threads come off the spool better from a horizontal pin and others from a vertical pin, to play around with it if having problems.
- Along the same lines, some threads work better coming off from the back of the spool, others from the front.
I found some amazing hints from Sharla R.
Hicks. Her help faqs are worth bookmarking for later reference if/when
problems arise!
1. Correct
needle size
2. Longer
stitch length
3. Tension
adjustment
4. A
bead of silicon????? (Sorry, this hint confuses me!)
5. Bobbin
thread
A contributor to Yahoo! Voices, Emma
Salk offers sewing tips, techniques, and hints when sewing with metallic
thread. The following are tips I didn’t see mention in the precious two
findings!
- Slow sewing works best
- Cut thread at an angle before attempting to thread needle (it won’t unravel as quick)
- Threads with a nylon core and is wrapped, rather than twisted, will give less trouble
One last website I’ll mention/recommend (because there are
thousands upon thousands) is from QuiltingDaily. They share the highlights found in author Liz Kettle’s interactive eMag
In Stitches article. The 6 Keys to
Metallic Thread Success pretty much covers what I’ve already mentioned from the
others. However, Liz details more specifically about bobbin thread and needles,
and the use of stabilizers, and is worth the quick read!
Thank you!
After going through the different articles for/with
you, I feel better about the shiny sparkle scoop. I hope it’s helped you! The
next attempt of machine sewing with metallic threads should be a success! Let
me hear if it works better for you, too!
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