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  Fibers to Use Other Than Floss
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There are many types of fibers available today for counted thread work, with
new specialty types appearing on a regular basis from companies such as
Kreinik and the Caron Collection.  Here is a partial list of what you may
find, and what they may be used for.

Flower Thread
   A matte-finish, 100% cotton thread available in skeins.  Available from
   several fiber manufacturers.  DMC has 108 flower thread colors, most of
   which match their floss numbers.  Used for traditional Danish embroidery.
   Also recommended for linen/evenweaves and for afghans.  About 2-3 times
   thicker than embroidery floss, so you can use a single strand.

Medici Wool
   A DMC product with a homespun look.  Looks especially nice with natural
   linen.

Metallic Blending Filament
   One ply thin metallic thread, available on spools.  Frequently combined
   with regular floss to provide extra sparkle.
   Tips:
      Use short strands.

Metallic Braids and Ribbons
   Metallic threads, available on spools.  Used alone to provide definition,
   sparkle and texture.  The braids are rounded, and the ribbons are flat.
   Tips:
      Slipknot the thread onto the needle.
      Run the threads over a fabric softener sheet.
      Use short strands.

Perle Cotton
   A "mercerized, twisted, non-divisible lustrous cotton thread" available in
   skeins and balls.  Used with many counted thread techniques, such as pulled
   thread and Hardanger.  Available in different weights.

Ribbon Floss
   A shiny, flat fiber.  Can be used with Metallic Ribbon to provide some
   real sparkle.

Silk Thread
   Available as solid or hand painted variegated skeins.  Beautifully smooth.
   CAUTION--some silk thread is not colorfast.