I need advice please. I am trying FSL ornaments for the first time. I was wondering if metallic thread could be used and if so, does it go in the bobbin as well? Thanks for your help. DebB

My experience with metallic thread is very negative. Iwont even think about using it to do FSL

Thank you all for the great advice. I made one with metallic thread and one without. I think the one without turned out better. Thank you all again.

1 comment

by Sewmum1 31 Aug 2017

Thanks for the update. I think there are just some designs that work better than others with metallic thread. It is just a case of trying to see if you like the result

I love FSL, but would not recommend using metallic thread in your first project. However, if you have used metallic thread in previous projects and feel confident, then go for it.

I was given loads of great advice when I asked about using metallic thread and FSL. Have added link below

I don't use metallic thread in the bobbin as it doesn't unwind well in a bobbin. the bobbins, and hook on my machine are all plastic so I worry that the thread would damage them over time.

I remember someone also saying they do the underlay in ordinary embroidery thread and the rest in metallic with great success.

Edited to add that the brand of metallic thread you use makes a big difference.

2 comments

by dragonflyer edited 29 Aug 2017

Thanks, Karryn...this is the other link I was looking for... :)

by kustomkuddle 29 Aug 2017

Thank you. Lots of good advice. I have not tried to use metallic thread before

I have done lots of FSL using metallic thread and I use it in both the top and bobbin...I would suggest that you use the woven WSS (not the one that looks like plastic) and also either an embroidery, topstitch or metallic needle as they have a larger eye than a normal needle...also, if using a small spool, it runs better if you can set it up so the thread spools off from the side (like a roll of TP)..it will help the thread not to twist...some have luck running the top metallic thread through a packing peanut to help keep it running smooth...there have been lots of threads about using metallic threads in the past...hoping another Cutie can post a link for you...

Edit: Here is another link for using metallic threads...

2 comments

by kustomkuddle 29 Aug 2017

Thank you for your help. I tried winding a bobbin and it did not go well at all. I will have to try your suggestions.

by dragonflyer 29 Aug 2017

You should probably slow down the bobbin winding speed...

I have done lots and lots of FSL,but never tried metallic. I think I will stay away from it. The designs are usually very dense. If I had wanted sparkle on them I used other mediums like iridescent glaces etc.

1 comment

by kustomkuddle 29 Aug 2017

thank you.

I've sewn metallic and I've sewn FSL. I would not try to combine the two because of constant thread breakage issues. If you really want to accomplish this challenge, splurge on the expensive Floriani metallic thread that is encased in Mylar or something, so does stitch very well. Accomplish stitching the FSL with regular and you will feel sooo clever.

2 comments

by graceandham 29 Aug 2017

Regular thread!

by kustomkuddle 29 Aug 2017

thank you.