I decided to step out of my comfort zone...instead of using invisible thread and stitching in the ditch, I'm trying a Sulky metallic thread and using the blanket stitch on my sewing machine. It started out just fine, but now the bobbin thread is pulling thru to the top and the metallic thread occasionally breaks. I've set the tension as low as I can, but still haveing problems. Maybe using that thread wasn't a good idea? Any suggestions?
I'm not a thread expert, but I've heard you need a bigger eyed needle for the metallic threads because of the way metallic threads are made. They are usually flat instead of round so they might need more room to slide thru the eye of the needle. Hope this helps you out.
Diana in East Tn.
I was also going to suggest a bigger needle. http://softexpressions.com/help/faq/faqmetallicthread.html offers some tips but the first is the correct needle.
http://softexpressions.com/help/faq/faqmetallicthread.html
I have some metallic thread, but I haven't used it yet. But I have a book, Machine Quilting Made Easy, that has in the back different threads with suggested needles, etc. Tell me the brand and size of thread and I will look up what it says for that thread.
Patti
Chiliwist Valley
hi laura, welcome to the group. i use a metallic needle, a new one everytime i start a new project, and i loosen the tension just a bit. don't give up on it. you just need to learn what settings your machine likes with that thread. it is recommended that you write those settings down somewhere you can find it. i'm not that organized.
gini in north idaho
Patti, I'm using Sulky Holoshimmer metallic thread.
LauraJP,
Welcome to the site. I'm very interested to see what others say about the metallic. I haven't jumped in on it yet. What little I do know is that Holoshimmer metallic thread is a flatter thread. It has to come off your spool straight. It can not twist. So however you have to set or make the spool to get the thread to run off flat and straight might help. The larger needle is also a must as well as the tension and stitching slow. Let us know what you find that works for you. Good luck. I hope others have info for you.
LauraJP:Patti, I'm using Sulky Holoshimmer metallic thread.
My book was published in 1994, so it is undoubtedly outdated. But it does list 2 sulky metallic threads. Sulky metallic embroidery thread, and Sulky Sliver Metallic which is described as ribbon like. the recommended needles are the same. 90/12 metafil or 80/12, 90/14 topstitch. Says they are good-quality metallic and describes the sliver as being easy to use. It also suggests for the bobbin thread to use 60/2 weight or 50/3 weight cotton.
i use 60 wt auriful in the bobbin.
When I use the Sulky holoshimmer, I first do like Gini suggested and use a 60 wt thread in the bobbin, a metallic or topstitch needle, and have found it helpful to adjust my spool pin vertically so the thread stands upright. That way it comes off the spool straight out and doesn't get the twist that laying down gives it. And sometimes it is necessary to adjust the tension. Best of luck on your project. It's a beautiful thread and worth the extra effort.
I'm currently using Sulky Premium Bobbin Thread, size Fine. Not sure what weight that would be. And I will give the topstitch needle a try. (Guess I need to go visit the quilt shop!)
Thanks so much for all the suggestions!!!
I know that using a Janome 6600p it was strongly recommended to use the blue tiped needles and good grief it worked,my guru sure didn't steer me worng and I also had a similar question a year ago but I was hand sewing and applying thread heaven I believe everyone says a larger needle may make a difference