Sequin

Definition and Overview

Sequins are flat decorative parts used to add shine and sparkle. Many have a hole at the center or edge for threading, and they are secured to fabric by hand sewing, machine sewing, embroidery, or similar methods. In addition to circular shapes, there are flower, square, and other shapes according to the design.

They may refer to individual sequins, as well as items connected in a continuous tape form or sewn onto fabric or lace. Sequin tape is the name for tape-like products and is handled separately from sequins, which refer to the individual decorative pieces themselves.

Materials and Structure

In many cases, they are made by thinly forming polyester or other resins and adding color or a glossy finish to the surface. Depending on the application, there are also vinyl chloride and metal versions. The material, surface treatment, and thickness affect how reflective they look, their hardness, how easy they are to sew, and their resistance to washing.

Sequins themselves are not woven, knitted, or braided fabrics. However, the base of tape products may use woven tape or knitted tape, with sequins sewn on or connected to it. They may also be sewn onto tulle, lace, or the ground weave of a woven fabric, or incorporated into the structure for decoration.

Size Indication and Main Uses

Individual products are generally specified by diameter or side length, while tape products are checked by width and length. In addition, confirming the shape, hole position and number, thickness, color, surface gloss, arrangement, and whether connecting yarn or a base fabric is included makes it easier to share the finished look.

They are used for decoration on dresses, stage costumes, formal wear, bags, hats, accessories, costumes, and more. In addition to sewing them on in parts as accents, they can also be combined with lace or embroidery to create a more glamorous surface effect.

• Using them individually and securing them by hand sewing or embroidery
• Sewing on tape to decorate straight lines or curves
• Cutting materials that have already been attached to lace or fabric and using them

How to Choose and Handling Precautions

When selecting them, check not only the shine needed for the application, but also the sewing method, hardness on contact, catching, and how easily pieces come off. When attaching tape to a curve, sewability differs depending on the flexibility of the tape and how the sequins overlap, so test sewing is important.

During sewing, if the needle hits a part, it may crack, chip, or even break the needle. Consider a process suited to the product specifications, such as avoiding parts on the seam line, removing them beforehand if necessary, or making hand repairs after sewing.

Washing and friction may cause the surface gloss to diminish, color transfer, scratches, or parts to come off. Some resin products are also sensitive to heat, so do not apply an iron directly; use a pressing cloth. Whether washing is possible and the specific care method should follow the labeling and test results for each material used.

Differences from Similar Terms

Bijoux and rhinestones are decorative parts with a stone-like three-dimensional feel or sparkle from cut facets. In contrast, sequins are thin plate-like pieces characterized by reflecting light across the surface. Beads are grain-shaped decorations used by threading yarn through a hole, and their shape and volume differ.

Braid is a long narrow decorative material made by combining yarn, cord, tape, and other elements. There are braids that include sequins, but braid is a general term for narrow decorative materials, while sequin refers to one of its components or to an individual decorative piece.

Frequently Asked Questions