Thank you for this useful information! A while ago, on a whim, I bought some metallic thread and tried stitching with it, but I had no idea what I was doing and it was basically a disaster. Now I can try again using the tips from here. :)
I am stitching one of Faby Reillys Christmas humbugs, and am finishing up the piece with DMC Light Effects metallic thread. Just cursing the #)@&%^@ metallic thread, so I went back and re-read this post to try and restore my sanity.....
THANK YOU so much for your hints!
Didnt have any Thread Magic, but used white candle wax (a poor substitute, I guess, but it works). And the hint about looping the thread through the needle is wonderful, and really helps.
I avoid metallic like the plague but sometimes you just have to use them. I use either the loop or knot method to secure the thread to the needle. It is important to remember to use a short length as the metallic will fray.