What Is the DMC Pearl Metallic Skein?

The DMC pearl metallic skein (Fil métallisé perlé / Metallic Pearl) is a single-strand, non-divisible metallic thread at pearl cotton No 5 weight, made in two colours: 5282 gold and 5283 silver. It comes as a skein and its tight twist makes it thicker and more durable than other metallics. It serves gold and silver satin stitch and knots in embroidery, bold metallic motifs in cross stitch, metallic edges in crochet and needle lace, and tassels and cords for soft furnishing and Christmas ornaments. This page gathers the DMC pearl metallic skeins at Hobianna; the categories under Cross Stitch, Tapestry and All Products link here.

How to Use It in Each Craft

Embroidery: bold gold outlines in stem stitch, chain and big French knots; filling in illumination and Ottoman motifs by couching. Cross stitch: full coverage single-strand on 11 ct Aida, raised metallic motifs on 14 ct; crowns, stars and bells on Christmas and wedding panels. Tapestry: thick metallic accents beside wool on 10–12 ct canvas. Lace and crochet: metallic edges and flowers with a 1.25–1.5 mm hook, and a sturdy knot-holding thread for needle lace. Cords and tassels: twisted into cord, wrapped into tassels and ornament hangers.

Needle and stitching tips

Use a size 3–5 large-eye needle on dense fabric or size 22 on Aida, in 35–40 cm lengths, and do not pull tight. Lay stitches flat and stitch metallic areas last so the surface does not dull. Press finished work from the back on low heat and hand-wash at 30 °C. For fine metallics see Light Effects, Etoile and spooled Diamant; for a thick matte thread DMC Pearl Cotton.