Giving Your Project That Designer Look by Adding Metallic Threads
Do you 1910 1911 Turkey Red baseball cards wonder if your project could Sideshow monster statues a little more sparkle? Have you ever wanted to add a special embellishment that will make your project have that "special something" lacking in others? I have an no fail answer to your dilema.
The use of specialty threads can truly enhance any project. Many of the designers use a variety of threads to create an effect that is superior to others'. This technique is available to anyone. Iron Man movie of us are afraid to use them, however. The biggest problem with Metalic threads is that they are very prone to breaking during use.
After much trial and error, I have developed a method that really does work. Anyone can sew with metallic threads if they are careful to follow my instructions. Best of all, this does not require a Bank loan!
The first thing you will want to do is to buy a good quality thread. I have had great success with Sulky brand and Superior brand threads. A quality thread is essential to your success.
Next, you will need to go to the Notions section of your local quilt or fabric store. Purchase "Metallica" needles for your sewing machine. I usually use an 80/12 or a 70/10 size. A "Metallica" needle has a longer "eye". This allows the thread to pass through the needle without separating. You also may use a "Topstitching" needle. It also has the longer "eye".
While you are in the Notions section, get a package of "Sewer's Aid". Many of us have this in our sewing supplies already. We are not really sure what to do with it. This product is not to be confused with "Fray Check". "Fray Check" is a glue. "Sewer's Aid" is a silicone product and is safe for your sewing machine.
When you are ready to use your beautiful thread, go into your kitchen and get a coffee cup or mug. No, you are not going to have a cup of coffee. Take the cup to your sewing machine. Taking the "Sewer's Aid", apply a line of the "Sewer's Aid" to the decorative thread from the top to the bottom of the spool. You may repeat this a couple more times as you go around the spool. This will soak into the thread and cut down on the friction which causes breakage. If you have a large project, you may repeat this again midway through the project. After you have applied the "Sewer's Aid", place the spool of thread into the coffee cup. Place the coffee cup to the back or side of your sewing machine. The placement of the cup will depend on which way your machine is threaded. This allows the thread to unwind without getting wrapped around any of the parts of the machine and breaking. 1963 Fleer baseball cards the "Metallica" needle. Then, thread your machine as usual.
You are now ready to add that special touch to your project. You may use any stitch you would like. I have used a very narrow satin stitch, a blanket stitch, and free motion quilting. There really is no limit to the possibilities.
It is my hope that you will enjoy this simple way to add a special touch to your projects.
Happy Quilting!
Nancy
Nancy Bordeaux, author, designer and teacher, has been a passionate quilt lover for over 20 years. Her pattern line, Nana's Pretties, is sold throughout the world. Her patterns are very beginner friendly and have something for everyone. She offers several different projects in each pattern as a value to her customers. http://www.nanaspretties.com
