Metallic Thread Frustrations? We can help!
Trying to turn real metal into a smooth-sewing thread is not an easy task.
To successfully run Metallics, make sure the thread you are using has three essential components. Poor quality metallic thread has nearly ruined this metallic thread's reputation, but there is quality metallic thread available, and at prices less expensive than some of those very poor imitators. Choose wisely.
3 Essential Components
- 1. Does it have a nylon core? A nylon core is an indication of strength and quality. Polyester and rayon are weaker. A nylon core, combined with "paper-pasting," prevents tangling.
- 2. Is it "paper-pasted"? The best Metallics will have a coat of rice paper pasted over the nylon core. This adheres the nylon core to the metal, resulting in a stronger thread. Metallic threads without the rice paper pasting do not hold up as well during high-speed sewing.
- 3. Does it have a protective coating? If the thread has a protective coating over the outer metallic layer, the thread will run better and with less friction. An outer coating also protects against fraying and shredding.
Choose the best quality thread available. The quality of metallic threads ranges as wide as that of cars. There is the Yugo and there is the Rolls Royce. Quite surprisingly, when compared yard for yard, the price of metallic thread does not vary much regardless of the quality you choose. In the metallic thread world, you will pay the same price, yard for yard, for a Yugo as you will for a Rolls Royce. However, you will not find a Rolls Royce in a subcompact model. Likewise, you will not find the best metallic on a tiny spool. Quality metallic threads are not put on small 100 or 200-yard spools. The smallest size is usually a 500-yard spool. Numerous notions and techniques have been developed to try to make a poor quality thread work. We've heard them all, including silicon lubricant, put the thread in the freezer, position the spool of thread all the way across the room, spray with water, keep in a ziplock bag, and turn the spool upside down.
If you start with a good quality thread, you will not need the gimmicks.
The following tips will be sufficient to allow you to fall in love with and successfully use Metallics:
- 1. Choose the best quality thread -- Superior's Metallic thread.
- 2. Use either a Topstitch needle size #90/14 or a metallic needle, size #90/14. A size #80/12 needle is too small. Most stores, unfortunately, sell the wrong size metallic needles.
- 3. On home machines, loosen the upper tension setting to "one."
- 4. Use a smooth, lint-free bobbin thread. The Bottom Line is recommended.
Superior is the ONLY metalic thread I use. It's a wonderful thread. I highly recommend it. I've never had a problem using it in my embroidery machine. Thanks for taking the frustration out of embroidering with metalics.
ReplyDeleteI love using your metallic thread. It is wonderful.
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