Iridescent Thread

Iridescent thread can add a new dimension to your sewing project, or it can be a major pain. I think attitude plays a big role, but really, the needle plays the largest role.

When using iridescent thread in cross stitch, it often looks like the picture above. It can tangle horribly, and if it comes in a cross stitch kit, it is often shorter than the typical length of thread I prefer to use. In addition to tangling, this is made of a plasticy material that can stretch out and break. The needle can also cut it if the eye is too sharp. On the other hand, the finished design has a lovely sparkle. It is perfect for snow, faerie wings, and twinkling stars. I actually really love the finished look, so it is worth the pain of doing the stitching.

Quilters and machine embroiders also use iridescent thread. It is easier to manage when sold on a spool, but there are still many problems one runs into when using it. The needle can cut the thread if the eye is too sharp. I recommend using a special machine embroidery needle. Even with the needle, some threads shred too easily. The other common technique is sewing from the wrong side with the iridescent thread on the bobbin. Then the thread never goes through the eye, and is much less likely to shred. This technique is difficult to do on a quilt that follows the lines, but it works great on over-all patterns. Often, people will quilt it twice if they want to follow the lines... once with a basting thread on the right side, and one with the iridescent thread in the bobbin on the wrong side, following the basting lines. Again, it's a pain, but on a small project it might be worth it.