Impressions - March 2018 - 36

Regardless of an embroidery machine's make or
model, its speed must be slowed when working with
metallic threads.

When embroidering with
metallic thread, it's helpful
to use pre-wound size L
bobbins for best results.

5. Store in the freezer before use.
It's true that threads are prone to breaking
if stored in a warm environment, so does
that likelihood decrease if they are stored
in the cold? For years, embroiderers have
sworn by storing metallic threads in a freezer
for 30 minutes to an hour before putting
using them. Because the thread twists as it's
coming off the spool, the cold helps the it
feed more smoothly and not twist as much.

7. Keep your machine polished.
Any burrs in the thread path will cause
immediate breakage - especially with
metallic threads.While minor burrs won't
be too detrimental when working with
regular thread, the machine must be in
tip-top condition when working with
metallic threads. Any burrs in the thread
path eyelets or openings should be polished
with crocus cord.

6. Use lubricant. Because the ultimate
goal with metallic thread is to reduce friction, needle lubricant is another way to get
the thread to glide smoothly through both
the needle and thread path.While Sewer's
Aid lubricant is meant to be used on the
needle to reduce friction between the eye
and the thread, try placing a thin layer on
the thread spool itself.You also can place a
drop on a strand of thread and run it through
all areas of the thread path.This will help
reduce friction in those areas, rather than
the needle only.

8. Materials matter. Metallic threads
are less prone to breaking on softer fabrics
and backing.Also, steer away from winding
your own bobbin, if possible; pre-wound
bobbins are more consistent. Use prewound size L bobbins for best results.

P.36

will redirect the thread to feed off the spool
the same way it was wound, which means
it no longer will twist and cause breaks.
10. Beware of certain fabrics. When
embroidering a very delicate fabric, such
as silk, metallic thread may be too rough,
causing the fabric to rip. Be careful when
embroidering large designs using metallic
thread on baby clothes, as this may irritate the baby's skin. If you do use metallic
thread, try using a soft fusible backing after
embroidering to cover the stitches and
avoid irritating the skin. 
Laura Gomez is the content specialist at Ricoma
Embroidery Machines. The company regularly
creates blog and video content to enable both

9.Try a horizontal spool pin. When
all other adjustments fail, try buying or
creating your own horizontal spool pin.
Typically, the thread feeds into the machine
in a vertical direction, causing it to twist.
When you turn the thread horizontally, it

i m p r e s s i o n s m a g . c o m MARCH 2018

beginners and experts to start or grow their custom apparel businesses with embroidery. For more
information or to comment on this article, email
Laura at laura@ricoma.us.

http://www.impressionsmag.com

Impressions - March 2018

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