Sparkle and Stitch: Mastering the Art of Sewing on Sequin Fabric

Are you looking to add a touch of glam and glitz to your wardrobe? Sequin fabric is the perfect addition to elevate any outfit, but sewing it on can seem like a daunting task. Fear not, as we have the perfect guide for you on how to sew on sequin fabric! From choosing the right supplies to mastering the technique, we have got you covered. So grab your sewing kit and let’s get started on creating your very own sequin masterpiece!

What is Sequin Fabric?

Sequin fabric is a specialty fabric that is embellished with small, shiny discs called sequins. These sequins are typically made from plastic or metal and are attached to the fabric using either thread or glue. The most common types of sequin fabric include flat, round sequins in various sizes and shapes, as well as more sophisticated materials such as holographic, iridescent, or embroidered sequins.

Sequin fabric has been used in fashion and costumes for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Egypt. It became especially popular in the 1920s during the Art Deco period where it was used in flapper dresses and glamorous evening gowns. Today, sequin fabric is still a popular choice for special occasion wear including prom dresses, ball gowns, and bridal wear.

Choosing the Right Sequin Fabric

When it comes to choosing the right sequin fabric for your project, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost is the material of the fabric itself. Common base fabrics include mesh, tulle, satin, chiffon, and organza. Each type of fabric will have a different weight and drape which will affect how the finished garment looks and feels.

Another important factor is the type of sequins used on the fabric. As mentioned earlier, there are various types of sequins available including flat round ones or more intricate shapes such as stars or hearts. Additionally, some fabrics use only one size of sequin while others have multiple sizes for a more textured look.

It’s also important to consider how densely packed the sequins are on the fabric. Some fabrics will have a dense covering while others will have larger gaps between each sequin. This can affect how much shine and sparkle your garment will have once it’s sewn together.

Preparing Your Sewing Workspace

Before you start sewing on sequin fabric, it’s essential to set up your sewing workspace properly to avoid any mishaps. Since sequins can be quite delicate, it’s important to have a flat and clean surface to work on. A self-healing cutting mat is ideal for this purpose as it won’t damage the sequins or dull your needles.

You may also want to invest in specialized tools for sewing on sequin fabric. These can include a sequin roller foot, which helps prevent the sequins from getting caught in the machine, and a sequin pinning wheel which helps evenly distribute the weight of the sequins for smoother stitching.

Preparing Your Fabric and Sewing Techniques

Once you have your workspace set up, it’s time to prepare your fabric. Depending on the type of fabric, you may need to wash or iron it before sewing. This will ensure that the finished garment looks polished and professional.

When cutting your fabric, use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to prevent any snags or tears in the delicate sequins. It’s also recommended to mark seam lines using tailors’ chalk or disappearing ink markers instead of traditional pins which may leave visible holes in your fabric.

When actually sewing on sequin fabric, there are a few techniques that can help make the process smoother. One popular technique is using a zig-zag stitch instead of a straight stitch as this allows the needle to move around each sequin without getting caught. Another method is hand-sewing with small stitches along the edge of each sequin.

Finishing Touches

After you’ve completed sewing your garment together, there are a few finishing touches you can add to enhance its appearance. This can include trimming away any loose threads or using fray check on raw edges. You may also want to press your seams carefully with a pressing cloth or piece of muslin to avoid damaging the sequins.

If you’re working with a more intricate sequin fabric, you may want to consider using a lining for your project. This not only adds a professional touch but also helps protect the delicate sequins from damage.

Caring for Sequin Fabric

Finally, it’s important to know how to care for your finished garment. Depending on the type of fabric and sequins used, some pieces may be able to be washed, while others may need to be dry cleaned. Always check the care instructions on the fabric or consult a professional before cleaning.

In addition, avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach on sequin fabric as they can dull the shine and cause irreparable damage. If any loose sequins become detached from your garment, carefully reattach them with fabric glue to keep your piece looking its best.

Sewing on sequin fabric can seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and techniques, it is easily achievable. By choosing the right fabric and tools, properly setting up your workspace, and using appropriate sewing techniques, you can create stunning garments that will make you stand out in any crowd. But don’t forget about proper care and finishing touches to ensure that your beautiful

Sewing on sequin fabric can seem like a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, with the right tools and techniques, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you want to add some sparkle to your wardrobe or create custom pieces for special occasions, learning how to sew on sequin fabric is an essential skill for any sewing enthusiast.

What You Will Need

Before you start sewing on sequin fabric, it is important to gather all the necessary materials. You will need:

– Sequin fabric: Choose a material that works well with your project. For example, lightweight sequin fabric is ideal for garments, while heavy-duty sequin fabric is better suited for accessories or home decor.
– Sharp scissors: It is important to have sharp scissors specifically designed for cutting fabric. This will prevent frayed edges and make cutting through sequins easier.
– Straight pins: Use these to secure the fabric and patterns in place.
– Sewing machine with a special needle: A regular needle will not be able to go through the layers of sequin and could break easily.
– Thread in a coordinating color: Choose thread that matches the color of your sequins so that it blends in seamlessly.
– Seam ripper: This tool comes in handy if you make any mistakes while sewing.
– Fabric glue (optional): If you are struggling with your sewing machine or working with delicate fabrics, using fabric glue as an adhesive can be helpful.

Preparing Your Fabric

Before you start sewing on your sequin fabric, it is important to prepare it properly. This will help prevent any damage or problems during the sewing process.

– Wash your hands: Make sure your hands are clean before handling the fabric to avoid getting any dirt or oils on it.
– Cut out pattern pieces: Use sharp scissors to cut out all pattern pieces from the sequin fabric. If you are making your own pattern, make sure it has seam allowances to provide enough room for the sequins.
– Mark your fabric: Use tailor’s chalk or a fabric pen to mark all pattern pieces on the wrong side of the fabric before cutting them out. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you sew everything in the right direction.
– Lay out your pieces: Once all your pattern pieces are cut out, lay them out on a flat surface in the order they will be sewn together. This will help you visualize how the final product should look.

Techniques for Sewing on Sequin Fabric

Sewing on sequin fabric requires special techniques to ensure that the sequins do not get damaged or cause any obstacles while you’re sewing. Here are some tips for sewing on this delicate material:

– Begin with hand basting: Before using your sewing machine, it is advisable to do a hand stitch with big and long stitches. These basting stitches will hold everything in place while adding extra stability to the fabric.
– Use a special needle: As mentioned earlier, regular needles are not strong enough to go through sequin fabric. Use a heavy-duty needle specifically designed for sewing through multiple layers of sequins.
– Sew slowly and carefully: To avoid breaking needles or damaging your machine, make sure to sew slowly over each sequin, using light pressure on the foot pedal.
– Anchor threads at the start and end: When starting and ending a seam, secure your thread by backstitching 3-4 times to prevent it from unraveling.
– Consider using embroidery techniques: If you have trouble sewing through the thick layers of sequins, consider using embroidery techniques such as couching or bead embroidery.

Tips for Working with Sequin Fabric

Here are some additional tips that can make working with sequin fabric a more enjoyable experience:

– Sew in well-lit area: Since working with sequin fabric requires precision and accuracy, make sure to work in a well-lit area to avoid any mistakes.
– Use quality thread: Cheap or old thread can easily break while sewing on sequin fabric. Make sure to use high-quality, new thread to ensure smooth sewing.
– Be patient: Sewing on sequin fabric can be time-consuming as you have to sew slowly and carefully over each sequin. Remember to stay patient and take breaks if needed.
– Practice on scrap fabric: If you are new to sewing on sequin fabric, it is a good idea to practice on scrap pieces first before working on your final project. This will help you get familiar with the techniques and build confidence.

Sewing on sequin fabric may seem tricky, but with the right tools, techniques, and patience, it can be a rewarding process. Remember to prepare your fabric properly, use the right supplies, and take your time while sewing. With these tips in mind, you can create beautiful garments and accessories that will be sure to impress. So go ahead and give it a try – add some sparkle to your sewing projects today!

FAQs on How To Sew On Sequin Fabric:

1. What type of needle should I use when sewing on sequin fabric?

When sewing on sequin fabric, it is best to use a needle specifically designed for sewing through multiple layers and thicker fabrics. A needle with a sharp point and a larger eye, such as a universal or denim needle, is recommended to avoid breaking or bending the needles.

2. How do I prevent sequins from falling off while sewing?

To prevent sequins from falling off while sewing, place a piece of tissue paper between the fabric and the presser foot before stitching. The tissue paper will provide a smooth surface for the presser foot to glide over without catching onto the sequins.

3. What stitches should I use for sewing on sequin fabric?

For sewing on sequin fabric, it is best to use either a straight stitch or a small zigzag stitch. These stitches will secure the sequins in place while also allowing for some stretch and movement in the fabric.

4. How can I keep my thread from tangling while sewing on sequin fabric?

One way to prevent your thread from tangling while sewing on sequin fabric is to use a thread stand or a thread guide attached near your machine’s spool pin. This will help guide the thread and prevent it from getting tangled as it feeds through the machine.

5. Do I need to use special techniques when pressing sequin fabric?

Yes, it is important to press carefully when working with sequin fabric. To avoid damaging the delicate sequins, place a piece of cloth over them before using an iron on low heat. Alternatively, you can also steam press the fabric without touching the iron directly to the sequins.

6. What is the best way to cut sequin fabric?

Sequin fabric can be challenging to cut due to its thickness and slippery texture. It is best to use sharp fabric scissors and make small snips along the seam allowance instead of trying to cut through all layers at once. This will help prevent the sequins from getting caught and stretched during cutting.

In conclusion, learning how to sew on sequin fabric can seem like a daunting task at first, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. The key to successfully sewing on sequin fabric is to take your time, plan ahead, and use the proper materials.

Firstly, it is important to prepare your fabric by stabilizing it with a backing fabric or interfacing. This will prevent the sequins from getting tangled or bent during the sewing process. It also helps to use a longer stitch length and a specialized needle designed for sewing on heavy or bulky fabrics.

Next, planning out your design before starting to sew is essential. Create a pattern or layout on paper or directly on the fabric using chalk or fabric markers. This will help you stay organized and ensure that your sequins are evenly spaced and sewn in the desired direction.

When it comes to actually sewing on the sequins, there are several techniques that can be used such as single-seam sewing, double-seam sewing, or using a sequin foot attachment for your sewing machine. Each technique has its own benefits and may work better for certain designs or fabrics.

Lastly, practicing and being patient will be key in mastering the art of sewing on sequin fabric. It

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.