Tuesday’s Tip

I often receive emails asking simple questions on what I use or how I do something. I know from teaching that even the most basic of things that we ‘assume’ everyone would know – well there may be someone who doesn't – we all started somewhere and someone told or showed or taught me everything I know so maybe they didn't have that opportunity..

so anyway….. this led me to today's decision… to the best of my ability I will be running Tuesdays’ Tips on the blog every week. You may have questions or things explained – please ask – or you may have a tip of your own to share – please send it to me…

our first tip!

Stripping the Thread.         

I don’t often use stranded cottons anymore for stitching but I know I started on them and most of us have a huge stash of stranded cottons. whether it be DMC, Anchor, Coates etc – most stranded embroidery threads are made up of six strands of thread twisted together to form one large thread.

But most projects done require such a thick thread so we take the strands apart and use the required amount.

Pull one end from your packaged skein (note if it doesn’t come easily find the other end – one of them will!)

Cut a length approximately 40cm/16” long – fingertip to elbow is a good guide.

Hold the top of the length in between thumb and finger of left hand.

 

Take one strand and pull straight up removing it  from the pile…

the bottom of the thread may bundle up a bit but shouldn't tangle –

 

just pull the bundle down straight again and repeat for the next strand until you have the desired amount.

Keep them in your right hand with the tops of each strand even.

Run your finger down the chosen strands to smooth and place the others in a safe spot for the next task.

NOW – even if you want to use all six strands I believe you should still ‘strip the thread’ (this is what the separating process is called). This is particularly important for satin stitch. When a stranded thread is made the strands as I said are twisted together. When you strip the threads and lay them back together they sit side by side. Do a test with satin stitch and see how the light hits the twisted threads as opposed to the stripped flat threads – it gives a smoother sheen to your satin stitch. Stripping the threads can also help with twisting, tangling and wearing of the threads.

Okay,maybe you learnt something there? no more teeth, door handles, standing upside down on the veranda to split those threads!

hugs for today…

Helen

Comments

[midwife gilbert]

Too much angst is caused when you are worried and frightened but do not ask questions.

[Lynn Douglass]

Hi, Helen! So good to see your beautiful face! Thanks for the tip on stripping the thread!

[Odette]

Muchas gracias por el consejo Helen , lo tendre muy en cuenta cuando deba utilizar mis hilos para bordar sobretodo en el tema de la puntada satin... siempre se aprende algo nuevo....
Abrazos

Odette

[Susan]

I am a stripper. I have DMC, Anchor, have Presencia Finca (which haven't used so much) and recently have bought the stranded Lecien cotton line which haven't used. I hadn't thought before but I might do a test run of all four together. One thing I do know is that Cosmos (Lecien) is the easiest to wind on that bobbin. Yes all DMC & Anchor are on bobbins. Do not have full collection of Presencia, but have Cosmos except for variegated cotton. Thanks for the tutorial.

I have one question do you start stitching from one particular end of the stranded cotton.

[Beth]

Great tip. No more teeth. I will strip the threads and put them back together.

[Jillian Smith]

Excellent info...I had learnt how to separate threads but had no idea how satin stitch could be improved...many thanks.

[Tracee]

Thanks Helen, I will be checking in each week for your tips. I read your satin stitch tips recently & my satin stitch flowers I stitched last night were far better & more even than previously. Thanks for that! Tracee xx

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I often receive emails asking simple questions on what I use or how I do something.

[Anthea]

I learnt the hard way about the importance of doing this, so thanks Helen for the reminder that I am not just being idiosyncratic.

[Betty]

Thanks Helen,
That explanation was great - have never had anyone explain that process before.

Betty