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Metallic thread is a gorgeous thread to use for machine embroidery. We've made this video
to highlight a few recommended steps to help you achieve great results with metallics.
Using a High-quality metallic thread will solve most of your frustrations right off
the bat. Click on the link to find out what makes a quality metallic thread.
Just as important as quality thread, is your needle. Metallic threads are delicate and
using the correct needle style and size will save you a lot of frustration. The industry
standard needle for embroidery is the 75/11 Embroidery-style needle. This size of needle
is a tight fit for your metallic thread! With a narrow eye less than 1mm long, there's not
a lot of room for the thread to move around, which can result in added friction and thread
breaks. We recommend Superior's Topstitch 90/14. Not
only does this needle have a much larger eye at 2mm long, it also has a wider groove, sharp
point, and is titanium-coated which means it will last several times longer than regular
needles! Once you've selected the design you want to
embroider, we suggest loosening your top tension. Some machines have electronic or 'automatic
tension' built in. Override it. When we are embroidering with Metallic threads, we drop
the top tension all the way down to 1.0. Spools of Metallic Thread should unwind off
the side, not over the end. When unwound over the end, extra twist is placed on the thread
which can cause it to break. When using cones of metallic thread, place
a thread net over the bottom half to keep the thread from slipping down.
Using a thread holder like this is a great help when using Large Cones or delicate threads
on your machine. It allows proper thread delivery without adding extra tension. It's easy to
thread, light, portable, and can be used lying down or standing up. Once the cone has been
set and threaded through the top hole, place the thread holder next to your machine. Thread
through the swing arm, and then finish threading your machine like normal.
On this machine, we like using the needle threader It's a BIG time saver and saves us
from repeat attempts at threading the needle. We recommend using a lint-free polyester thread
like 'The Bottom Line' in your bobbin. Now that your top and bottom threads are set,
load your hoop. It's time to start embroidering!
Even though most machines have automated embroidery functions, it's still a good idea to check
the progress of your design and make sure your stitches are looking good.
If you notice the stitch balance doesn't look good, adjust your tension as necessary. We
like to use reference guides for help. If your thread is breaking even after adjusting
tension, lower the Stitches Per Minute. As we mentioned earlier, the method which
thread is unwound from a spool or cone can make a difference in stitch quality. Cones
should always unwind off the top and spools of delicate threads like Metallic, should
unwind from off the side. Once your design is complete, unload the hoop
and enjoy your completed embroidery design! By following these recommendations, we know
you will have a much more enjoyable time embroidering with Metallic Threads.