The designs used in this tutorial include:
Glow thread is a type of embroidery thread that is made with special materials that allow it to glow in the dark. It comes in a variety of colors fit for all your favorite designs. In sunlight the thread is one color, while in the dark it glows green or yellow. Glow thread works best with light-stitching, light and airy designs (like Redwork or vintage).
Glow designs are specially digitized for 40 weight glow-inthe-dark thread. A few brands of glow thread on the market are Coats and Clark Glow-in-the-Dark and Fil-Tec's Luminary.
Glow threads are treated with a special dye, so they can behave a little differently than your standard rayon or polyester thread. Different brands can vary, despite similar or identical weights listed on the spool. A test stitch-out is a great way to see if you like the results you're getting from glow thread before committing to embroidering on your project.
Glow thread is thinner than rayon or polyester thread, and can be somewhat delicate. As a result, you may encounter thread breaks while working with it. Adjusting the machine speed so it stitches more slowly will reduce friction between the needle and the fabric and stabilizer. This can help solve thread breaking while using glow thread.
A burr on the needle is another factor that may result in thread breaks with glow thread. A burr is a rough spot on the needle that cuts through the thread. Try changing the needle if you encounter any thread breaks. Metallic thread needles have a larger eye, which reduces friction as the thread passes through. This make them a good choice when embroidering with glow thread.
Have fun embroidering with glow thread and light up the night! "Charge" the embroidery in sunlight or under a lamp or light and get glowing.
Following the thread manufacturer's care instructions will keep your glowing embroidery projects in top shape. Some glow threads specifically mention avoiding excess heat during laundering and ironing to preserve the glow aspect of the specialty thread.
Our sister company, Urban Threads, has even more designs that feature glow thread! Click here to see those designs .
