On 15 Jan 2005, at 03:25, Tamara P. Duvall wrote:
I've been using metallic thread (fine: Sulky 142, Kreinik cord, and some of the madeira threads, like Astros) for ages, and never had any problems with pieces curling (lots of problems winding the bobbins, but that's a different story). But, the metallics have always been used *sparingly* - usually as a worker or an edge pair.Metallic threads come in just about every form there is; S ply, Z ply, chained, knitted, wrapped, monofilament. Only if the thread is really intended for machine embroidery is it likely to be Z-plied.
I began to notice some misbehaviour, when I tried making a 2-Pair flake centre (1" diameter) using metallic excusively; it stretched in an unpredictable way. Still, the result was acceptable, and I considered the experiment as "positive". But the Windrose 2, which is much bigger... I'm so disgusted with the result, I didn't hang it on the tree; not even in the back, where it wouldn't show. As soon as I can find the time, I'll cut off the beads (waste not, want not) and trash it... :)
So I think metallics have something to answer for, in addition to the S-ply/Z-ply conundrum (and, aren't all metallics Z-plied, on top of being naughty otherwise?)
One of the snakes I've made recently was Texere Juillee, a wrapped thread which is so stiff it's almost like working with fine wire, but other glitter threads are very soft. Sonja reported that she'd had curling with Moravia glitter used with Bockens linen (S-ply), but I didn't have a problem when I used it with Perle 8 (S-ply).
I think the main problem with some metallics (especially perhaps the chained ones) will be the stretching. That also applies to polyester threads, which I think are yuk to work with but sometimes people choose polyester because it is durable.
Brenda http://www.argonet.co.uk/users/paternoster/
- To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
