What Is DMC Light Effects?

DMC Light Effects is a 6-strand, 8 m metallic thread built like floss; its colour codes start with E (E3852 dark gold, E168 silver, E5200 white, E310 black). Made of 100% polyester metallic fibre, it has six effect families: Precious Metals (gold, silver, copper), Jewels (bright jewel tones), Antiques (aged metallics), Pearlescent (pearl), Fluorescents (neon) and Glow in the Dark (E940). This page gathers every Light Effects colour at Hobianna; the Light Effects categories in the cross stitch, embroidery and tapestry branches link here. For the other metallic DMC threads at Hobianna see Metallic Threads.

Use in Cross Stitch and Embroidery

In cross stitch use 2 strands on 14 ct and 1 on 16–18 ct for stars, snowflakes, Christmas ornaments, crowns and jewel details; the most elegant result comes when the ground is stitched in floss and sparkle is given only in accent areas. In embroidery use 1–2 strands in stem stitch, satin stitch and French knots; it gives a shimmering line in lettering and outlines. Glow-in-the-dark E940 makes a fun effect in nursery panels and star and ghost motifs. In small pieces such as cards, ornaments and brooches it can be stitched on its own.

How to Stitch Metallic Thread Easily

As metallic thread is slippery and fragile, cut it short: 30–35 cm. Separate the strands one by one and recombine; the needle should be a blunt size 24 with a large eye. Fixing the thread in the needle with a knot (loop method) or using thread conditioner reduces wear; lay the stitches flat and do not pull too tight. In cross stitch, blending metallic with floss (1 strand E + 1 strand floss) both softens the sparkle and makes stitching easier. Iron the finished piece from the back at low heat.

Light Effects, Etoile and Diamant

Light Effects is fully metallic and the brightest option; DMC Etoile, a cotton-metallic blend, gives a soft sparkle and stitches as easily as floss; DMC Diamant is a single-strand metallic thread on a 35 m spool for outlines, used in goldwork and edges. For a heavy metallic skein see DMC Metallic Pearl Skein.