Sequins are defined as "A small shiny ornamental disc, especially sewn on women’s clothing, accessoris and used for theatrical or dance purposes. Oh, but they are sooooo much more than this. . . . .
Sequins are defined as "A small shiny ornamental disc", especially sewn on women’s clothing, accessoris and used for theatrical or dance purposes. Oh, but they are sooooo much more than this. . . . . The sequin is also known as a spangle or a pailette or paillette. They are intended to catch the light and reflect it back.They are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes and colors for all sorts of projects that require a little extra glitz! Sequins are a wonderful addition to any beading project although most overlook sequins! I love using them because they add a lot of style without any weight at all. I especially like vintage sequins as the colors and shapes and old materials they are made of add another element of nostalgia to my jewelry designs.
The history of sequins is interesting as they have been used to embellish the clothing of royalty in centuries past. Sequins were made for kings and queens and are thought to have been produced by rolling gold super thin, cutting out discs and then glazing them to prevent scratches. Sequins made of gold coins have been well known to embellish the clothing of traveling gypsies. Some vintage sequins are made of mother of pearl, metals, crystal, celluloid or various early plastics. In the 1940’s gelatine was a discovered material and used to create sequins. We happen to have some rare examples of gelatine sequins for sale. Soon after the invention of gelatine, it was also found out that it could not be near heat or water so articles of clothing with gelatine sequins could not be laundered. Sequin manufacturers abruptly stopped producing gelatine sequins. It was a fashion disaster.
gelatine sequins (click to see)
The History Keeps Going On. . . .
Did you know that the ruby slippers that Judy Garland wore in the Wizard of Oz were embellished with sequins? Yes, that’s right. . . .sequins! This was the material used because of the wonderful reflective quality. We have acquired many sequins from all over. Some of these wonderful sparkling beauties were produced for entertainers on Broadway. Just think, some of these little pieces of history could have been made for some famous entertainers. Now that’s fun to think about! We have an earring kit available that has spangle sequins. Check them out or come up with some new sequin jewelry designs. We would just love to see & hear about your ideas.