What metallic thread is used for
Metallic thread adds shine and a bit of texture to both hand and machine embroidery. Stitchers commonly use it for highlights such as stars, snowflakes, crowns, jewellery, borders, lettering and festive designs. It is usually best as an accent rather than the main thread of a design, partly because it is trickier to handle and partly because a little goes a long way visually.
If you are still deciding what to use across a whole project, our main guide to threads for hand embroidery compares the usual choices.
Types of metallic thread
Metallic threads are made in several ways, and the construction affects how easy they are to use.
- Single-strand metallic thread is a smooth, usually polyester-based thread sold on a spool or card. Some are designed for hand embroidery, cross-stitch or quilting.
- Blending filament is a very fine metallic strand that is stitched together with ordinary cotton floss to add subtle sparkle. Many beginners find this easier to handle than a thick metallic thread.
- Metallic floss can be split into strands like cotton floss, though it usually behaves less smoothly.
- Traditional metal threads used in goldwork are a specialised craft with their own techniques, and are best approached separately.
Brands differ, so check the label to see whether a thread is intended for hand stitching, machine stitching or both.
Why metallic thread frays and breaks
Metallic thread is often made of a thin metallic layer wrapped around or bonded to a core. It tends to be less flexible than cotton and has more friction as it moves through fabric and the needle eye. That is why it can fray, twist, snap or tangle. The problems are common and are not a sign you are doing something wrong.
Tips for stitching by hand
- Use short lengths. Around 30 to 40 cm is a reasonable starting point, since the thread wears as it is pulled through fabric repeatedly.
- Choose a larger needle eye. An embroidery or chenille needle with a bigger eye can reduce friction on the thread. Some stitchers also use a slightly bigger needle than they would for cotton so that it opens a hole in the fabric for the thread.
- Stitch slowly and do not pull tight. Let stitches sit gently on the surface.
- Let the needle dangle now and then to untwist the thread.
- Try the loop method to attach the thread securely and avoid threading a slippery end through the needle eye: fold the thread in half, pass the loop through the eye, then pass the tails through the loop.
- Experiment on scrap fabric first.
- Pair with simple stitches. Straight stitches, backstitch, satin stitch in small areas and French knots are common choices, while long loose stitches may snag.
Tips for machine embroidery
On a machine, thread guidance varies by brand and machine, so the instructions for your thread and your machine are the best source. Commonly suggested ideas include slowing the stitching speed, using a needle designed for metallic thread, and adjusting tension slightly if it breaks. Some people also use a thread net or place the spool so that thread unwinds smoothly. If breaks continue, try a different brand or switch to a metallic thread labelled for machine embroidery.
Preparing designs for metallic thread
Metallic thread usually looks best in designs with moderate stitch density. Very dense fills put more strain on the thread. Using it only for outlines or small details can give attractive results while keeping frustration low.
Terminology: thread embroidery, thread painting and techniques
Thread embroidery is simply a general term for decorating fabric with thread, and it is more often just called embroidery. Embroidery thread painting, also called needle painting, uses many fine stitches in blended colours to create a painterly, shaded effect, often with silk or single strands of cotton. Other widely taught techniques include surface embroidery, cross-stitch and other counted work, crewel, goldwork, whitework and blackwork. Metallic thread can feature in several of them as an accent.
Caring for metallic embroidery
Check the manufacturer’s care instructions for the thread. As a cautious rule, avoid high heat and hard rubbing, and consider spot cleaning or gentle hand washing for finished pieces. Some metallic threads can be damaged by a hot iron, so use a pressing cloth and low heat or press from the back, and test on a scrap first.
For ideas on where to keep your finished spools and cards, see our guide to how to organise and store embroidery thread.
FAQ
What is metallic thread used for?
Mostly for shine and accents in hand and machine embroidery, such as highlights, borders and decorative details.
Is metallic thread hard for beginners?
It can be fussier than cotton, but short lengths, a bigger needle eye and slow stitching help.
Can I mix metallic and cotton thread?
Yes. Blending filament is designed to be stitched alongside cotton floss, and many stitchers combine them.