Metallic thread gives a dazzling sheen and splash of colour to a variety of crafts, including home décor, seasonal clothing, performance costumes, and more. There are a few basic modifications you can make, just like with any other embroidery project, to ensure a high-quality completed result and a seamless manufacturing process. While it's difficult to dispute that metallic threads aren't lovely to work with, there's no denying that they're a nuisance for machine embroidery digitizers.
Because of the manner, it comes off the spool, the thread twists more, making it more prone to breaking and shredding. Why? As a result of their anatomy. Metallic thread is made composed of a layer of metallic foil wrapped around the core to make a metallic thread, which is thicker and coarser than normal thread.
Beware of certain fabrics
If you're embroidering silk or another delicate fabric, the metallic thread may be too abrasive and rip it. Large metallic designs on infant garments should also be avoided, as they may irritate the baby's skin.
Use the right needle
There are a variety of speciality needles made for different sorts of threads and materials on the market. In any event, if you have larger needles on hand, it's advisable to use them as long as you keep the fabric you're embroidering in mind.
The greater space between the needle and the thread decreases friction, preventing thread breaks and shredding. Metallic embroidery machine needles have a larger eye, which allows the thread to flow more freely. Keep in mind that larger conventional embroidery needles will pierce your fabric more deeply. Use a specialised metallic thread needle whenever possible because it won't puncture a larger hole.
A needle size or two larger is required for a 40-weight or 30-weight metallic thread. A 50-weight thread may not require an 80/12 needle, therefore a 75/11 needle may suffice. Depending on the weight of the thread, use a larger embroidery needle such as an 80/12 sharp point needle or even a 90/12 sharp point needle if you don't have a speciality metallic needle.
Try a horizontal spool pin
When you turn the thread horizontally, it will flow off the spool in the same direction it was wound, meaning it will no longer twist and produce breaks. The thread usually flows into the machine in a vertical direction, twisting it. If all else fails, consider purchasing or making your own horizontal spool pin.
Slow down
Occasionally, though, you will see thread breakage and shedding, which will slow you down in the long term. You must slow down the speed of your machine, regardless of its brand or model. You might be able to get away with running metallic threads at greater speeds depending on the needle and fabric you're using.
Try stitching at a speed of 500 to 600 stitches per minute on your machine. The purpose of the metallic thread is to reduce friction as much as possible, therefore higher speeds generate more friction.
Materials matter
For optimal results, use pre-wound size L bobbins. On softer fabrics and backing, metallic threads are less likely to break.
Reduce tension
Make modest tension adjustments and test your design on a piece of fabric similar to the one you'll embroider until the machine is satisfied with the thread, backing, and fabric combination. Try lowering the tension of the working needle's top thread to reduce friction and stress on the thread. If there is too much tension on the thread, it may break. Thread tension is crucial for preventing thread breakage.
Store in the freezer before use
The cold helps the thread feed more smoothly and not twist as much as it twists as it comes off the spool because it twists as it comes off the spool. Metallic threads have been stored in the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour before usage by embroiderers for years.
Keep your machine polished
With conventional thread, you can get away with minor burrs, but with metallic threads, you need to make sure your machine is in tip-top shape. Any burrs in the thread path, especially with metallic threads, may cause instant breaking.
Choose the proper pattern
Longer stitch lengths are also recommended. The thread will shred and break more easily if the stitches are shorter. Thread breakage is likely to occur in patterns with a high stitch count. Choose designs that are basic and open, with no heavy or dense fillings.
This is all you need to know about some interesting tips for decorating with metalic threads. If you want to ask any questions about the topic or anything related to online digitizing services, feel free to contact us. We will be happy to help you. Remember to be think outside the box. This way, you will be able to make some astonishing designs.
