How to Stop Thread Shedding When Using Metallic or Rayon Threads

How to Stop Thread Shedding When Using Metallic or Rayon Threads

Metallic and rayon threads produce beautiful, high-shine embroidery—but they are also known for shredding, fraying, and breaking. Unlike polyester, metallic and rayon are more delicate, sensitive to friction, heat, and tension. If your machine is shredding thread, breaking repeatedly, or fraying near the needle eye, this guide will help you solve it.

This complete troubleshooting guide covers the best techniques, machine settings, needles, and digitizing adjustments to stop metallic and rayon thread from shedding.

Why Metallic and Rayon Threads Shred

  • Metallic threads have a thin outer foil layer that cracks from friction.
  • Rayon threads weaken when exposed to heat or aggressive tension.
  • Both require smooth thread paths, cool needles, and slower speeds.

Great overview of metallic thread properties: Impressions Magazine – No Need to Dread Metallic Thread

Use the Correct Needle for Metallic and Rayon Threads

The right needle prevents friction, thread splitting, and shredding. Always choose a needle designed for delicate or metallic threads.

  • Metallic needle (size 90/14 or 80/12)
  • Topstitch needle (wide eye and reduced friction)
  • Sharp or microtex needle for rayon on tightly woven fabrics

Needle reference: Schmetz – Metallic Needle Guide

Needle sizing and tips for metallic thread: MaggieFrame – Metallic Needle and Techniques

Lower the Machine Speed

Metallic and rayon threads cannot handle high-speed stitching.

Recommended speed: 350–600 SPM

Lowering the speed reduces heat, thread twist, and friction. You will see fewer breaks immediately.

Expert tips: EMDigitizer – Tips to Stop Metallic Thread Breakage

Adjust Tension to Reduce Shedding

Metallic threads require loose upper tension. Rayon often works best with medium tension.

  • If thread is shredding → Reduce upper tension by 20–40 percent
  • If loops appear → Tighten bobbin slightly or increase upper tension moderately

Full tension troubleshooting info: Madeira – Thread Fraying and Breaking Guide

Choose the Right Thread Path Setup

Metallic thread needs extra distance and smooth movement.

  • Use a thread stand
  • Let the thread unwind vertically
  • Add a felt pad under the spool
  • Use a foam cushion to reduce bouncing

More thread path recommendations: WonderFil – Avoid Thread Breaks

Reduce Friction Along the Thread Path

Metallic thread is very sensitive to friction. Reduce resistance by:

  • Adding a small amount of silicone thread lubricant
  • Cleaning tension disks
  • Polishing rough needle plates and bobbin case edges
  • Ensuring the thread path is lint-free

Great friction-reducing guidance: Embroidery Library – Avoid Thread Shredding

Digitizing Adjustments to Prevent Thread Shedding

Sometimes the digitizing—not the machine—is the reason metallic or rayon threads shred.

  • Use lower density (0.45–0.50 mm)
  • Add longer stitches for metallic thread
  • Avoid tiny satin columns using metallic thread
  • Use proper underlay (zigzag or edge-walk)

Digitizing troubleshooting reference: BitsNPixs – Prevent Thread Breaking

Rayon-Specific Tips

Rayon is softer and more flexible but weakens under high heat and tension.

  • Use sharp needles on tightly woven fabrics
  • Keep machine speed moderate
  • Store rayon threads away from heat and sunlight
  • Use lightweight designs on high-friction materials

More rayon care details: Madeira – How to Stitch Metallic Threads

Additional Resources

Final Thoughts

Metallic and rayon threads can stitch beautifully when handled with the right setup, needle, tension, and digitizing approach. Slow stitching, smooth thread paths, proper needles, and reduced friction will significantly reduce thread shedding and breakage.

With the right settings, even the most delicate metallic threads will stitch smoothly and consistently.