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metalic thread tension
Sullytoo
Joined: Nov. 6, 2009
Posted: Nov. 7, 2009, 7:06 AM
I was wondering if I could get some tips on running metalic thread so that the tension on the back of ther quilt is impecable. I use a #20, I believe, needle. I always run Superior Threads Bottom Line in my bobbin. Could you advise me where to set the screws on the bobbin when running metalic and also the top tension. I assume that the bobbin needs to be loosened and the top a bit tighter but I can't seem to find the balance. I am doing quite a bit of tight background stitching. I look forward to any tips you might have for me to try.

Thanks!!
Re: metalic thread tension
Joanta
Joined: June 28, 2009
Posted: Nov. 10, 2009, 7:39 AM
I use a #18 needle and Botton Line in my bobbin. I only slightly loosen the bobbin thread but greatly loosen the top thread tension. Use the horizontal spool holder when using metallic thread and only loop thru two of the three holes when threading the machine. Also, you cannot quilt as fast as you normally would or the thread will break. See if this helps.
Re: metalic thread tension
kathisalter
Joined: Dec. 2, 2008
Posted: Nov. 13, 2009, 3:26 PM
Make sure that you have set the bobbin tension first. It is the foundation to setting your tension with all threads. When holding the thread with your fingers after the bobbin is inserted into the bobbin case it should slide slowly down like a spider on a web. If you lay the bobbin case on your hand and lift it up with the thread from the bobbin, you should be able to pick it up off your hand and then have the thread slowly slide out of the bobbin case. After you have set the tension on your bobbin case correctly, then you will do the rest of the adjusting on top.

When using metalic thread, you may have to back off on the three hole tension guide to two holes and also keep the top tension a little bit looser than normal on top, because the thread is a little more delicate. A #20 needle is too large for this thread. It will leave a big hole and you will see too many needle holes in your fabric for the size of thread you are using. I would try a #16 and if you are having problems with the #16, go up to a #18. I have never had problems with Superior metalic when using a #16 needle though.

I hope some of these tips help you.

Kathi Salter
Handi Quilter Studio Educator
Re: metalic thread tension
grandmajuki
Joined: Dec. 2, 2008
Posted: Nov. 26, 2009, 8:36 PM
I am working on a quilt now with gold metalic thread and bottom line pre-wound bobbin.. I used an 18 needle and only used the first whole in the 3 wholes for the top thread guide... I did not loosen the bobbin I do what HQ says below and I did loosen the top but had to put it back where it was . By using only the top whole I think that helped and I have a net on the thread and quilt very slow . A # 3 on my PCQ Side Mount... Have not had one thread break and on my 5th row at 100" wide.
Judy