Although metallics are bang on trend for the fashion world in 2021, most people don’t think about using metallics in patchwork and quilting. They are certainly not the first choice of patchwork fabric for these projects as plain and printed cottons are often considered the best type of fabric to use for quilting, but why not start using metallics in your next patchworking or quilting project?
Can you use metallic fabric in patchworking?
Here at Fabrics Galore, we are big fans of all things metallic and think these fabrics should be used as often as possible! We believe glitter, shimmer, fairy lights and metallics are not just for Christmas, and when designing your own patchwork quilt, utilising metallic cotton fabrics is one of the best ways to elevate your design to another level entirely.
How to incorporate metallic cottons in patchworking
We believe there is nothing better than creating a vibrant and unique design for your patchworking or quilting project, and when using these lustrous fabrics, you have a huge variety of different designs and patterns to choose from, so you can truly make it your own. But how can you incorporate these materials into your final design?
- Japanese inspired metallic cottons
If you were hoping to stay away from the Christmas vibe, our new collection of Japanese inspired patchwork and quilting cottons would be a perfect addition to your project. Available in pretty shades of navy and maroon with touches of pink, these metallic cottons are gorgeous and even incorporate very pretty illustrations of butterflies and florals, making them ideal for any spring projects. These Japanese inspired cotton metallics can really add some all year-round polish to your next project. Check out our blossom, willow and golden dragon range.
- Metallic linen
Japanese Quilting not only uses metallic patterns often, but also is well known for mixing textures and fabric types. Although not traditional in all quilting sectors, linen can be used very successfully in quilting and can certainly bring your project to life. Our metallic linen range would be a great background for different quilting and patchworking techniques, whilst also giving a subtler nod to the metallic trend. The beauty of these materials is the fact that they have the wonderful texture of linen, but the added bonus of a subtle metallic thread to add even more texture to the final product.
- Modern metallic prints
If you wanted to incorporate a more contemporary feel to your next quilting or patchworking project, but still add some warmth from a few metallic features, we have some great modern prints available for you to purchase too. For example, our gorgeous gold pineapples metallic fabric is a vibrant material with luscious gold pineapples that can easily be included in a fun design which has a tropical vibe.
Tips for sewing with metallic cottons
As metallic cottons have a coating on them, compared to normal cottons that you are probably used to working with, they can be a little trickier to work with. For example, when using a sewing machine, you may have trouble moving the fabric through the sewing machine smoothly because its surface is sticky, so the stitch lengths can be uneven and skipped. Here are just a few tips to take into consideration when working with metallic materials in your quilting projects:
- Pressing seams
When you puncture metallic fabrics, the seams are often far more prominent and remain more visible, plus, they may not appear flat. Topstitching regular seams or using an alternative technique - such as overlapping - is one of the best solutions for keeping seams flat. Before starting your project, just ensure that you have got your technique up to scratch, as mistakes are also harder to cover up.
- Use presser feet
As we have already mentioned, sometimes you may come across the problem of the fabric moving evenly through the sewing machine. If this is the case, we recommend using presser feet which allows you to keep the fabric moving along smoothly for even stitch lengths.
In general, metallic fabrics shouldn’t cause you too much trouble, these are just a few things to keep in mind before you embark on your next project.
Would you like to buy metallic cottons for your quilting or patchwork project?
No matter what patchwork project you have in mind, metallic cottons are sure to be an amazing addition. If you would like to learn more about our metallic fabrics, and how to use them as a patchwork fabric, you are more than welcome to give us a call on 020 7738 9589. By signing up to our free newsletter, we can also provide you with regular email updates about your favourite fabrics and latest promotions here at Fabrics Galore.
