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From: keljo60
Date: 08-06-2006, 03:02 PM (1 of 6)
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Hi, I am making myself a basic princess style dress in a black/white tiny gingham style check. I am considering some type of detail stitching around the neck and hems in red, but I'd like to use something shiny. I would like to get any advise on using metallic threads, or if there is something else that would work for this purpose. Also, what tension settings to use on my machine. I'm not one of the lucky ones to have an embroidery machine (~sigh~) so I will be using my Riccar to do it.
Kelly
Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and good with ketchup! |
User: keljo60
Member since: 07-30-2006 Total posts: 154 
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From: HeyJudee
Date: 08-06-2006, 07:36 PM (2 of 6)
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When using metallic thread, use a metallica needle. Check your tension before sewing. I usually have to loosen the needle tension and sewing at a slow speed helps prevent the thread from breaking. Also, the spool should be in the upright position when sewing. Sometimes it is easier to sew with the metallic thread in the bobbin and regular thread in the needle. Instead of using a metal thread, you could use an embroidery thread like a a shiny Sulky Rayon thread. I have a few that have a nice sheen to them and have used them with my decorative stitches on my sewing maching...yep, don't have any embroidery machine either. Here is a bag (http://www.flickr.com/photo_zoom.gne?id=128971366&size=m&context=set-348651) that I decorated. Here's some more stitch recipes (http://www.berninausa.com/browse.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302132385&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395181831&bmUID=1139042825587) on the Bernina site that may give you some ideas for the decorative stitches. This is what I used to inspire what I did. Good luck on your dress. TTFN from
Judy |
User: HeyJudee
Member since: 01-25-2005 Total posts: 1366 
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From: bridesmom
Date: 08-06-2006, 07:37 PM (3 of 6)
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I've used the rayon embroidery thread in my sewing machine for topstitiching or even fancy stitches. I don't find I need to change the tension at all, and it gives it a bit of flash. I have tried sewing with the metallic threads, but find they are really finnicky to work with. My sister says to use them together with a regular thread and a metallic needle, though I haven't tried that yet.
Laura
Tickled pink with my Innovis 4000D |
User: bridesmom
Member since: 01-21-2004 Total posts: 2026 |
From: keljo60
Date: 08-06-2006, 09:39 PM (4 of 6)
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Judy, I really like those stitch recipe pics, there are a few that I have on my machine that I can try. Thanks for the info.
Kelly
Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and good with ketchup! |
User: keljo60
Member since: 07-30-2006 Total posts: 154
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From: blackie
Date: 08-07-2006, 04:33 PM (5 of 6)
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I recently did some topstitching with metallic thread. It's nice to know the breakage I encountered wasn't my "fault" - but rather the thread itself and the lack of the correct needle. One other thing - I did just regular topstitching and it didn't seem obvious that the thread was shiny. You might try a few stitch patterns on your garment fabric scraps to make sure you get the most out of the effect. see the mundane life of a housewife.
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User: blackie
Member since: 03-31-2004 Total posts: 594 |
From: paroper
Date: 08-08-2006, 07:40 AM (6 of 6)
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If you happen to have a multiple spool holder it helps if you put the thread through several of the spool holder guides. If you have a free standing thread holder with one guide you can move it further from the machine. Metalic thread twists as it comes off the spool, much like a hose that has been coiled. For some reason these two things will help some threads not to break as frequently. Of course, still use the metalic needle it has a different type of eye.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
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