Kathy Tidswell shared some thread and needle tips she has discovered over time!
- the higher the number the finer the thread
- different machines have preferences for different thread - what works for one machine may not work for another. Use trial and error
Favorite thread
- for decorative work- Sulky rayon 40 wt.
- use a machine embroidery needle which has an oval eye and prevents shredding while making a smaller hole. Start off with 75/11 and, if shredding, switch to 90/14
- rayon threads are not good for quilts which will be washed because the colour can fade.
- Sulky metallics actually have metallic fibres. They can be used also with an embroidery needle and a drop of sewers aid on the spool. Run your finger along the thread to disperse it.
- you can use metallica needles but these can be costly and Kathy has had good luck with the sewers aid.
- Guttermann makes a polyester metallic. It does not require a special needle and doesn't feel rough.
- Aurifil 50 wt is good for piecing, quilting and free motion embroidery. If you want the thread to be more visible use 40 wt. Use an 80/12 needle in microtex, sharp, quilting or denim.
- DecoBob 80 - Wonderfil (TM) - is a cottonized polyester thread that Kathy uses for thread painting. It can also be used as bobbin thread for quilting, piecing, and a top and bottom thread for quilting.
- Invisifil (TM) is a 100wt cottonized soft polyester thread that makes the quilting disappear. Use DecoBob or Invisafil in the bobbin.
- it can also be used in the top and bottom for couching and for lace designs.
- it is recommended to turn off the stitch regulator as it may fail to detect ultra fine thread. You may have to adjust top tension. Low bobbin sensors won't be accurate and avoid using automatic thread cutters.
- use 60/8, 70/10 or 80/12 mictotex needles.
- Razzle (TM) and Dazzle (TM) are very heavy weight threads intended for bobbin work, hand work, serging or couching. They are comparable in weight to No. 8 perle cotton.
Happy Sewing!!
