It’s sparkle time! You can add a shiny element to many designs but you should set yourself up for success.
Use your digitizing software to change some elements into metallic-friendly details. In Inspirations’ Perfect Embroidery Pro digitizing software, lengthen run stitches. My normal stitch length for quilting designs is 2.4. For metallic threads, I increase the length to 2.8. The longer stitch length lets the metallic thread shine on the fabric while shorter stitch lengths, tend to hide the pretty sheen. Imagine how pretty those longer stitches will look on a dark fabric. 
Reduce the density of a complex fill. The stitches should lay right next to each other without overlapping. The density default setting is 5.0, type in .80 and click Apply.
If your design requires underlay, consider making the underlay a separate color. Stitch the underlay first in a coordinating polyester thread, then switch to the metallic to add the top layer.
Satins – think curves! Metallics really shine when light bounces off the thread at different angles. So curve your satin columns, and adjust the widths to take full advantage of the light.
The satin column on the right will reflect more light than the blue, straight column.
When digitizing for metallic thread, schedule some extra time for testing your digitized designs. I hope you had a chance to watch our Facebook Live session this week. Embroidery expert Deborah Jones and I shared ideas for using metallic thread and there’s a special offer on a holiday 6-pack of Kingstar Metallic thread. Click here to take advantage of the special price.
3 COMMENTS
Janis O'Connor
5 years agoI would like to know how to do this: Two items mentioned above:
I have PEP software.
If your design requires underlay, consider making the underlay a separate color. Stitch the underlay first in a coordinating polyester thread, then switch to the metallic to add the top layer.
Satins – think curves! Metallics really shine when light bounces off the thread at different angles. So curve your satin columns, and adjust the widths to take full advantage of the light.
Thank you.
eileenroche
5 years ago AUTHORHi Janis,
I’ll walk you through the steps with a blog post later this week.
BobbieSue Wilson Fife
5 years agoI was going to order the metallic thread with FREE SHIPPING* but it keeps adding a shipping charge at checkout. Is there something I am missing? I don’t want to miss the sale!!!!