Gold Braid
Gold braid is a narrow braid or cord used for edging and decoration on clothing and fashion items, made with yarn that has a golden sheen or metallic-look yarn.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Gold braid is a general term for narrow decorative materials with a gold-like appearance. It includes flat tape-like types, round cord-like types, and types with raised patterns, adding brightness and definition to costumes and fashion accessories.
"Mole" may refer to decorative braid as a term used by application or in trade. However, it can also refer to mol yarn with a fuzzy surface, so when placing an order it is important to confirm the shape, width, material composition, and color tone.
Materials and Construction
Gold braid uses yarn made with metallic-look film, lame yarn, or glossy synthetic fiber yarn. It is not always made mainly from actual metal, and may be named for its gold color and sheen.
Its structure may be a corded form made by twisting multiple yarns together, a flat braid form woven from yarn, or a cord form with yarn wrapped around a core. Depending on the structure, thickness, flexibility around curves, tendency of the edges to fray, and ease of sewing will differ.
- Flat types are easy to use for straight edging such as collars, front edges, and cuffs.
- Round cord types are used for piping-like decoration that emphasizes outlines and for curved design details.
- Types with patterns or texture have a strong presence, but the thickness at seam allowances should be checked in advance.
How Width and Thickness Are Expressed
Flat gold braid is generally described by its finished width in millimeters. Because the impression changes depending on whether the measurement includes the raised or selvage portions, or only the visible center width, confirm with an actual sample.
For cord types, the diameter or thickness may be shown. In braided products, the number of plies or picks may also be listed, but thickness and stiffness cannot be judged uniformly from that number alone.
Main Uses and How to Choose
It is used for decoration on stage costumes, uniforms, formal wear, folk-style clothing, costumes, hats, bags, and more. In addition to line-like decoration such as tuxedo stripe, it is also used for edging collars, plackets, pocket openings, and cuffs.
When selecting it, in addition to the finished width and color, check contrast with the base material, ability to follow curves, and the sewing method. Gold tones can vary in gloss level and degree of yellow tint, so it is safest to check it alongside the fabric and other metallic-look trims.
Handling and Sewing Precautions
Stretch and shrinkage vary depending on the material and structure. Braided or knitted structures may change shape if pulled, so do not stretch them during sewing, and use basting or temporary fixing if necessary.
Cut edges may fray, or metallic-look yarn may protrude. Test edge finishing in an inconspicuous area, and choose a method suited to the material, such as folding under, stitching down, or applying suitable heat treatment.
Washing, moisture, friction, sweat, chemicals, and strong heat may cause loss of sheen, discoloration, or surface damage. Carry out sewing tests including whether the product will be washed, and determine care labeling based on the handling conditions of the gold braid itself as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are gold braid and lame yarn the same thing?
No, they are not the same. Lame yarn is one type of yarn used to create a metallic look, while gold braid refers to decorative braid or cord made using such yarn. Gold braid may use lame yarn, but the shape and use are different.
Can gold braid be machine-washed at home?
It varies by product, so it cannot be judged uniformly. The surface of metallic-look yarn may be affected by friction, detergent, heat, and moisture. Before use, it is necessary to perform washing tests on both the material alone and in the finished product, and to consider the sewing method and care label.
What should you do if the edge of gold braid frays?
Depending on the structure, finish the edge by folding it under and stitching it down, or by sandwiching it into a facing or seam allowance. Some types can be finished with heat, but there is a risk of melting or discoloration, so always test on a scrap piece before using it.
