Metallic thread is a notorious headache, but I have finally found a combination of things that makes it behave like regular thread. Here are my secrets.
$$$ Try putting your metallic thread in the fridge before you stitch. I’m not entirely sure this helped, but it’s worth a try because I feel like it kind of did.
$$$ Use a lot of Thread Heaven (or as I call it,
Thread Lube). It’s a type of wax which will help your metallic thread glide smoother.
$$$ I always pair a strand of metallic thread (I prefer
this kind) with one strand of DMC six-strand cotton floss. It makes the path smoother by example and encourages the metallic strand to behave.
$$$ The
most important thing is the way you thread your needle. I learned this from
Creative Poppy. In these images, I’m threading a needle with one strand of metallic and one strand of DMC cotton floss.
- Fold the two strands together and thread the folded part through the needle. Pull the threads through a little bit longer than your needle, making a loop.
- Put the tip of the needle through this loop and pull it through so that it forms a tiny knot at the end of the needle.
- This locks the floss on the needle and prevents the metallic thread from fraying. I swear, it works like magic. The metallic thread will behave like normal thread.
$$$ Lastly, don’t forget to iron it – see before and after photo below. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in uniformity, plus it cranks up the reflective quality!
