Pegar la hebra

Pegar la hebra
 

I think it means to break the ice, but I'm not sure. Google search states it means to start up a conversation which is similar to break the ice. Is this an international term?

In Spain it's used. I'd say it doesn't mean necessarily to start up a conversation, but also just to talk.

E.g. Cuando X va a comer a un restaurante, le gusta pegar la hebra con los camareros.

Here, X enjoys talking to the waiters, not only "breaking the ice".

I agree.
Pegar la hebra = platicar, conversar.

In Mexico, it's often associated with people talking long.

We use chew the fat.

Thank you both for the information.

Pegar la hebra implies to waste time

so does chew the fat or shoot the breeze