Tangling occurring with kit threads

[lauramac]

This floral that I am working on had the threads packaged. I keep having problems with the threads tangling and knotting up as I am stitching. What can I do to prevent this? It is so annoying! Are these kit threads of a lesser quality usually?

laura

[Krissy]

I've never had anymore troubles with kit thread than with my thread. Do you use thread heaven? With the thread in most of my kits I cut in half and that also helps. Dimensions thread is usually pretty long and so is the thread to the kit for the princesses that I am currently doing.

[kerbear879]

I use thread heaven too and have noticed more of a difference but I really noticed a difference when I started cutting the thread shorter so maybe you could try that and see if it helps you any!

[Becca]

I agree, keeping your lengths of thread short will help.

[Kute Kitty]

I never have any more problems with kit thread than I do with any other thread, I don't bother cutting my thread short either, just let it hang down now and again to untwist itself as I normally would

[Pengwenn]

My sister recommended running your thread along a piece of soap before you start to stitch (if you can't find any Thread Heaven). Something without perfumes or dyes. since you're probably going to wash your fabric when you're done anyway you won't have to worry about residue. I haven't tried it yet, but I think I will when I get back to my larger projects.

[lauramac]

Thanks for your help. I will try to cut them shorter and get some Thread heaven. Is that like beeswax? The threads are about 18 or so inches long.

[nettie]

Do you use one or two threads at a time. With long threads in kits I tend to use one strand at a time and put the two ends together. I then use the loop to tie the thread off on the underneath of the piece.

[lauramac]

Nettie, great idea. I am using 2 strands. I'll give that a go.

[~threadbear~]

Nettie do you find it keeps the back alot tidier as well? It sounds a great idea.

[minij]

Wherever possible I do the same as Nettie, I prefer starting with the loop method as I think it is a little neater but it also saves trying to sew the end in which I find easier and quicker

[Jilly]

I like the loop method as well, so much less fiddly

[Rose]

I try very hard to always start with the loop method and my starting length of thread is about 48 in and then to double it over gets to 24. I don't use any thread but DMC. I tend to not use kits but I always double it over and start with the loop method with those. I also do a lot more dangling of my threads to let it relax and stitch easier when I am using kit thread.

[SusanF]

Loop method for me too - I hate it when I chart calls for only 1 thread to be used!

[Becca]

Wow you guys use very long lengths of thread, i think 10 inches is about the most i use at once.

[nettie]

Nettie do you find it keeps the back alot tidier as well? It sounds a great idea.

Yep much neater and I try to use up a section of thread in one go even if it means travelling thread across the back. I hate confetti stitches love big blocks of colours helps to keep it neat too!

[kerbear879]

Yeah I use shorter lengths too..Maybe no longer than 12 inches! As for thread heaven, it's similar to beeswax. Here's a link to their website and it explains the difference between it and beeswax. http://www.threadheaven.com/home.html

[lauramac]

Thanks kerbear and all.

[Lisa]

im a loop method convert as well, i love it!!!

[kell]

I've only just cottoned on to the look start method and am SO pleased with how it works out! Much neater and easier - how did I never think of that myself before? I think I might look into getting hold of some thread heaven too - sounds like nifty stuff!