Metallic flosses come in a variety of styles and thicknesses. There are true metal flosses and fibers in use, but most of the metallic flosses and filaments used by stitchers are actually polyester in composition.
1. Use shorter lengths of floss.
Cut your floss several inches shorter than usual. The friction of drawing the floss or filament through the fabric can dull the finish or fray it after repeated stitching.2. Keep the needle stationary on the floss strand.
Loop your thread on the needle, or double the thread on the needle to avoid moving the needle from the original position. The needle eye is likely to cause damage to the area of the floss it is in contact with.3. Secure the floss, thread, or filament extremely well.
Since the surface of some filaments and flosses is slick, it may work out of the stitches used to secure it. Use a slightly longer tail when securing metallic floss.4. Stitch with the grain on rougher flosses.
In my experience, some of the metallic flosses are rougher than others even within the same brand. If you notice the floss is fraying more quickly, make sure you are stitching with the grain of the floss.5. Be patient.
When stitching with metallic flosses, it is best to stitch slowly, especially if you aren't used to stitching with it.6. Let the floss untwist.
Stop every few stitches to let your needle dangle so that the floss can untwist. This allows for better coverage and fewer knots.7. Start with a small project.
It is best to start with a smaller project when first trying out metallic flosses and filaments. This will avoid frustration and makes it more likely that the project will not end up a UFO.8. Use sharp scissors.
It is best to use extremely sharp scissors to cut metallic flosses and fibers. This will help prevent the ends from fraying.9. Use a larger needle.
Using a size larger needle will reduce the drag of the floss as it comes through the fabric.10. Seek the advice of other stitchers.
If you have a question about stitching with metallic floss, post it in the About.com Cross Stitch Forum. There are stitchers there of all experience levels, and they love to help.11. Submit a tip on stitching with metallic flosses and blending filaments.
Share your experience with other stitchers. Tell us your best practices, hints, and tricks.Submit a Photo of Your Cross Stitch Project
Do you have a project using metallic threads or blending filaments? Share a photo of your work with your fellow stitchers. Read the Photo Submission Guidelines.
