quote:
Originally posted by juliephrmd
Hello,
I have never used Kreinik threads before.
I finally bought some and am debating on the project now.
I am wondering what size needle to use for the different types of thread, ie #4 braid vs metallic thread. I have learned that using Thread Heaven will help reduce breakage, etc. Any helpful tips will be appreciated.
Julie
I use the metallics pretty frequently, also - they are sometimes a pain, but the end result is so great, it's worth it.
I have heard to use a larger needle than usual - a 24? maybe, as it will make the hole a bit larger, so the thread will pass through with less friction than normal. I can't actually say if I've done that or not - I don't really pay attention to my needle sizes, though I probably should.
With the #4 braid, a larger hole will definitely help. With the blending filament, I find the best things to do are 1) keep the lengths shorter than you might normally; 2) remove the little clear strip from your length, as that causes about 80% of the problems, and isn't necessary; and 3) tie the filament to the needle, using a granny knot, and leaving just a very small tail, which will keep it stable. If you have regular floss blended with a filament, you might put in the floss stitches, then go back over with just the filament later, instead of doing both at once - it allows the filament to show better, and it's less strands to contend with.
If you look at the last picture in this Webshots album, the one titled Dragon Dreams Freebie - it is done almost entirely in Kreinik #4 - the picture shows some of it pretty well:
http://community.webshots.com/album/411401604qKgiSK/1
Good luck with your project!!
Karen R
http://community.webshots.com/user/krife4
http://beadsandneedles.blogspot.com/