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Sparkle fabric is renowned for its exceptional adaptability. The outcome is that many varieties of fabrics are designed for various purposes, from apparel to home décor. Below is a detailed look at the most commonly used sparkle fabrics.
Glitter Tulle
Glitter tulle is a lightweight net fabric embedded with tiny glitter particles. It adds a magical touch, especially to formal dresses and dance costumes. Often used in layers, glitter tulle creates that extra volume and charm for events like weddings or holidays.
Sequinned Fabric
Sequinned fabric is perhaps one of the most popular sparkle fabrics out there. The fabric is made by stitching or gluing sequins onto a base material. Sequins catch light in breathtakingly different ways, creating attractive surfaces ideal for evening gowns, dance costumes, and haute couture fashion. Occasionally, sequins can be backed or treated to avoid discomfort when in contact with the skin.
Lurex Fabric
Lurex fabric is another commonly used sparkle fabric. Lurex fabric has metallic threads woven into it. This gives the fabric a subtle sheen and often a golden glow to the entire fabric. This type of fabric is also ideal for clothing and accessories as well as home décor items like cushion covers and curtains.
Metallic Voile
Metallic voile is an extremely thin and gauzy fabric with metallic threads. This leads to a soft, shimmering finish that is not overbearing. The lightweight nature of this fabric makes it ideal for sheer overlays on dresses, window treatments, and table linens for special occasions.
Foil Print Fabric
Foil print fabric is made by applying metallic foil to a base material through heat and pressure. This can be one or even hundreds of washes depending on usage. This fabric produces bold, shiny patterns that will make even the dullest fabric pop. Common applications for this fabric include activewear, fashion apparel, and accessories like bags and headbands.
Shimmer Satin
This type of fabric is most commonly used in garments and accessories. Shimmer satin fabrics are usually made of polyester satin, although in some high-end cases, silk might be used. This offers a more affordable and easy-care alternative. The fabric's smooth surface drastically reduces the likelihood of the fabric fraying and allowing it to be easily cut and sewn into intricate patterns.
Crystal Organza
Crystal organza is a light, sheer fabric with a very subtle sheen. It often comes in pastel or clear colors. This sparkle fabric is also stiffer than normal organza and can be used every time to shape very well. This makes it especially ideal for ball gowns, bridal wear, and decorative items such as bows and sashes.
What makes sparkle fabric so appealing to designers and crafters alike are its various features. The addition of glitter and shine brings more to any project.
Texture and Feel
Many sparkle fabrics present a smooth touch such as satin, voile, tulle, and organza. Above all, others like lurex and sequinned fabrics might have coarse or raised textures. This is because they are embedded or woven into the fabric.
The texture leads to a diverse sensory experience in the use of fabrics from the feel during draping in garments to the way it feels in the hand. A good example is how the sequined fabric can feel rough where the seams are, but most sequins are gentle on the skin where they are not.
Sometimes, these fabrics may tear easily if not taken care of, particularly when sewn into fitted patterns. The glitters, sequins, or metallic threads can make even the simplest fabric design appear extraordinary.
Color and Sheen
A majority of sparkle fabrics are commonly available in multiple shades and color. This especially depends on the base fabric and the type of embellishment used. A good example is lurex which is usually woven in silvery and golden colors as well as many others that can be incorporated in attire.
The sheens of these fabrics also range from a very subtle shine to extreme glitter. All this depends on customer taste and fabric usage. Sparkle fabric plays a significant role when designing special occasion attires that mandate a classy and luxurious feel like weddings.
Durability and Maintenance
The durability of sparkle fabric totally depends on the type of fabric and the specific embellishments used on it. Usually, sequinned and lurex fabrics can be pretty strong when worn. However, they may require extra care whenever washing or storing them to avoid damaging the sequins or metallic threads.
On the flip side, other fabrics like glitter tulle or foil-printed fabric may not be this as durable depending on usage. Glitter may also flake off sometimes while foil prints may get worn out due to washing.
This type of material is still widely popular in various applications that transcend the fashion world. The following list summarizes some common uses of sparkle fabric.
Fashion and Apparel
Even though most sparkle fabrics are used as evening wear, some fabrics are also finding their way into casual wear. These include shimmer satin and lurex knits.
While ordinary wear, these fabrics give garments like tops, skirts, and dresses a certain flair. That makes them feel relaxed but still fashionable. Therefore, allowing the wearer the freedom to look good without having to wait for an occasion.
Costumes and Theatrical Apparel
The sparkle fabric is also useful when making costumes. When making costumes for performances, parties, or even Halloween, sequined, glittertulle, and lurex fabrics are ideal candidates.
This fabric will give any costume made a vibrant appearance, which will be even better around the stage or at a costume party. Sparkle fabric can be used for making fairy, princess, or even space-inspired costumes. This adds up to the glamour regardless of the characters being portrayed.
Home Décor
Subtle sparkle fabrics are also used to incorporate a classy touch to interiors and home décors. Cushions, curtains, and throws made from shimmer and metallic fabrics can transform a dull corner or room into a functional but beautiful space.
Especially in living rooms and bedrooms meant for relaxing, a little shimmer can elevate the ambience to make it a posh space. These fabrics are mainly used in special event décor like weddings, banquets, or holiday celebrations.
Accessories
Fascinators, bags, and belts made from sequins or lurex knitted fabrics can bring accessories to the next level. Wearing shiny or glittery accessories can transform an outfit from basic to extra. This is often without the need for extra embellishments or jewelry. Sparkling shoes, handbags, and belts finish off outfits with just the right amount of shine.
Craft Projects
Many fabrics can be used in creative projects. Glitter fabrics are often incorporated in scrapbooking, card making, and crafting costumes. The glitters also add up to the dolls and other displays. With the use of glitter fabric and sequins, crafters can actually embellish home-made items like purses, headbands, and earrings for a more personal touch.
Purpose
The first step in choosing the right sparkle fabric is determining the type of occasion for which it is intended. For instance, a lightweight and stiff fabric such as glitter tulle or crystal organza is suitable for creating stunning overlays or flounces. On the contrary, fabrics such as sequins or shimmer satin are suitable for making completed garments.
Texture
The feel of any fabric is extremely important. Fabrics with sewn or glued sequins usually have a thick and textured feel. This may not be very comfortable on the skin. In such cases, they should be lined or worn over inner clothes. Note that lighter fabrics like glittertulle or organza are very smooth. They are definitely comfortable to wear on the skin.
Care and Durability
However, some sparkle fabrics will require more care than others. Most sequined and lurex fabrics have to be hand washed or dry cleaned to avoid damaging the sequins or the metallic threads. This makes the fabric unsuitable in projects where low maintenance is desirable.
The durability of these fabrics ranges from one fabric to another. Some are very sturdy and can be worn frequently. Others, like foil-printed fabrics, may not be as sturdy when used frequently. Be sure to consider the longevity of the fabric when making the selection as well.
Budge and Affordability
Sparkle fabrics are usually less expensive than normal fabrics. Glitter tulle, on the other hand, is the least expensive of all these fabrics. The widely used fabrics including lurex and sequined fabric chiffon tend to be a bit pricey. Reflective fabrics are often used for special occasions and are made in unique styles. Therefore, it is not very shocking that they ask for such high prices.
Color and Shine Level
All sparkle fabrics have different colors and levels of shine. Some may be very flashy like sequined and foil-printed fabrics. Others are very subtle like lurex and shimmer satin. Choose the one that fits the project and the client's personal preference. This will help ensure overall satisfaction.
A1. Yes. However, most sparkle fabrics mandate some level of extra care. Most sequined and lurex fabrics are better off when dry-cleaned. Other sparkle fabrics like glittertulle might be hand washed and air dried.
A2. When working with sparkle fabrics, it is wise to use a sharp sewing machine needle. This will help the needles pierce the fabric instead of just sliding over the surface.
A3. Sparkle fabrics can be used to make several garments. Sequined fabrics are popularly used to make evening dresses and special occasion tops. In contrast, lurex fabrics are gaining popularity for everyday tops and dresses.
A4. Yes. Sparkle fabrics are versatile. Sofas and cushion covers made from these fabrics can bring a refined touch to interiors.
A5. Yes. While some sparkle fabrics are strong enough to withstand rigorous use. Others, like foil-printed fabric, are ideal for items that won’t be washed or handled frequently.
