Multiple strands should by layed [placed side-by-side as opposed to twisted or crossed] to increase the sheen of the fiber. Laying fibers is easiest with a laying tool, - a wooden or metal tool with a long, thin, pointed shaft used to smooth multiple strands of fiber before pulling them through the fabric. Laying fibers is a two-handed job so working on a frame is easier than in-hand. Enter the fabric [bring the needle through the fabric from the back to the front]. Diagram One Still holding the needle in your right {left} hand and keeping the fibers gently taut, lay the fibers on the fabric away from your stitching direction. If stitching toward yourself, lay the fibers away from yourself, etc.

Diagram Two With the laying tool in your left {right} hand, lay the shaft across the strands of fibers, about 2 inches from where they exit the fabric so they lie side-by-side under the shaft against the fabric. Diagram Three Exit the fabric [take the needle through the fabric from the front to the back], keeping the laying tool against the fabric to hold the strands flat.

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