Finding and choosing metallic threads often pops up as a beginner question. Just as stitching threads, marking threads are entirely up to the stitcher as part of the artistic composition of the temari. In general the marking thread (jiwari) is a decorative metallic, but some patterns may call for it to be the same as the stitching threads or even be done in "invisible thread" - the same as the wrapping threads.

       Choosing a marking thread therefore becomes a matter of personal preference for most designs. Usually jiwari becomes an integral part of the completed design (although on rare occasions you may even remove marking threads after the design is completed). Very often on a temari the last stitching done on a temari is "embellishing" - that is, stitching that adds the final "pop" to the design, and often is done in metallic thread. This may be the finaly round of the design, or some extra accent stitches (or both). This work may be done in the same thread as the marking or it may be one that makes more of an impact while coordinating with the marking and stitching thread. Here are some thoughts, both personal and collectively through many years of discussion on TalkTemari. That being said - these are not hard and fast rules, just hopefully helpful info especially for those newer to embroidery overall without a lot of exposure to metallic threads.

       Metallic threads tend to be a bit more expensive than pearl cotton. However, there are some good choices for both "common use" as well as for that "special project". One of the most common mistakes is to purchase a thread that is too fine - for example thread sold for decorative machine embroidery. That is not to say that there may not be projects that these threads can fit into, but for the most part they are too fine for regular use with the common #5 pearl cotton.

       I often recommend to beginners (and use when teaching) the gold lame thread sold in the jewelry sections of craft stores (just becareful to not get the elastic version). It is a 2 or 3 ply lame that is rather close in gauge to a #5 pearl cotton, and for the trial and error that always happens with us as we learn, this is a cost-effective material. Another high favorite that is used by many stitchers (both beginners and experienced temari makers) and well-recommend is  the DMC metallic sold on a spool for hand embroidery. It is packaged on a card and will be found by the pearl cotton in a craft store: DMC Art # 282, a 43 yard spool for about $2.70US. It's a 3-ply thread that gives just enough contrast to use as marking and embellishing thread. It usually is available in gold, light gold and silver. Red and green may be found around the holiday season.  Both of these threads tend to be more readily available (as in craft stores) than some of the speciality brands usually found in needlework shops (brick and mortar as well as online)

       One word of caution, especially for beginners: many people find the metallic pearl cotton offered by DMC to be quite difficult to work with. Metallic floss also can be difficult because of the special needs of working with multiple strands. DMC also has a line of threads called "Light Effects" - these too are stranded and are more for use as a blending filament or as multiple strands. This is not to say "don't use them" - needless to say they may be perfect for certain projects. Just be aware that common consenus has been that they need some extra effort.

       After this, the sky tends to be the limit - many brands are available. Some of the more well known are: Kreinik, Rainbow Gallery, Caron Collection, Kyo, Olympus, YLI ...  and in the end each person will find their personal favorites. Among these companies, these threads will good general use (remembering that other threads from these folks may find a nitch in a special project).

Kreinik has a wide range of both colors and sizes, ranging from ultra-fine blending filament (great for mari over-wraps but too thin to mark or stitch with) up to ribbon-width. The most common Kreinik sizes used in temari tend to be fine or medium braid, as well as ombre. Kreinik threads are sold on small 10m cap-top spools and tend to be a bit expensive. Many stitchers use them for embellishing over marking, but it's personal (and pocketbook) choice. There is no argument that the colors are great and probably the widest range available.

Rainbow Gallery offers a huge selection of fibers including metallics. Nordic Gold (although it comes in a range of colors) is a favorite, as is Gold Rush (several sizes available so choose wisely). Coronet and Treasure Braids are also possibilities. These fibers are sold on cards in a bit larger quantity than Kreinik, and are a bit more affordable.

Caron Collection offers "Snow" which is a chained, soft in hand fiber - a bit pricey for common use but gorgeous stuff. It's offered in a loose hank.

Kyo and Olympus threads are imported from Japan. Kyo comes on cards, Olympus in small spools. Both are moderately priced.

YLI manufactures Candlelight, on mini king spools. These are really beautiful threads on mini-king spools and  moderately priced.

       Hoepfully this will point you in some directions - in the end nothing works other than some trial and error to see what you like to work with and what works with your style. This is certainly not a comprehensive listing and as always, the only "rule" is if you can stitch with it, then it's ok! Just remember to balance the threads in your project for artistic appeal - the first and most important one being yours.

Check out the Supplies page on Temarikai.com for listings of online and mail order sources as well as links to the homepages of the leading manufacturers. I have no business or otherwise connections with these companies.