Trying to turn real metal into a smooth-sewing thread is not an easy task. Don’t just go for ‘cheap’ metallic threads, there
are quality metallic threads available, at prices less expensive than some of those very poor imitators.
Choose wisely using the three benchmarks below. To successfully run metallics, make sure the thread you are using has three 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 embroidery. Paper-pasting makes the thread cohesive and flexible.
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.
Three Top Tips To Run a Metallic Thread
1. Run the metallic thread through your machine with the top tension set to ‘1’ If your machine has an automatic tensioner consider turning it off.
2. ALWAYS use a Schmetz Topstich 90/14 needle. The topstitch needle takes all the best attributes from all the other needles to become a ’super’ needle. It has a sharp point and an eye that is twice the size of the eye on a standard needle. It makes sense when you think about it, a metallic thread has a foil wrapped round a core, if the eye of the needle is too small it will strip the foil then break the thread. The solution? a larger eye! The topstitch needle also has a grove down the front of the shank into which the thread sits as you are machining. The thread is then protected on three sides by the needle reducing wear as the thread is stitched down.
3. Start slow, building up speed if everything is running smoothly.
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