Tips for Using Metallic Thread

These are a few things that I have learned over the years.

• Use a good quality thread. I happen to like Superior Thread. There are many other good metallic threads on the market, so find the one that works best with your machine.
  
• Use the right needle. I like an embroidery needle. You can use a metafil needle as well. Find the needle that works best in your machine.
• Clean your sewing machine. Nothing messes up a machine more than lint.
  
• Make sure you have the machine threaded properly. OK, time for one of those stories... One day I took my machine into my favorite repair man for its annual servicing. He looks at it, pulls out the bobbin case and asks, "Did you know you have your bobbin in backwards?" Um, no. For years I had been putting my bobbin in backwards and didn't even know it. READ YOUR MANUAL!
• Make sure your thread is warm. During cold weather, I wrap up my thread in a heating pad for 15 or 20 minutes. I find that when the thread is warm, it is less prone to breakage.
• RELAX! When you are relaxed, your stitches will be much smoother.
• Take a break. When the thread keeps breaking, its time for you to take a break. More importantly, its time for your machine to take a break. Household sewing machines are not built to run continuously. They need some time to cool down and rest.
• If the thread keeps twisting, turn the spool over. This only works if you are using the type of spool that is the same on both ends.