These beautiful metallic look fabrics glow softly in low light and add a richness to any project, even when used as a small accent. Try a little or dedicate a major portion of your design to them. This fabric is actually woven with shiny synthetic yarns that need a different approach than most quilting cottons. With a little tender loving care you are assured of a lovely result. There are a few rules to follow when working with the new metallics.

1. Minimize any ripping. Lamés are delicate fabrics and tend to fray easily. Be sure to stitch accurately. If you do need to rip, snip every few stitches and coax the fabric apart gently.
2. Handle patches with care. The shiny fibers are slippery and fine and cause the fabric to go off grain. Avoid excess pressing and handling
3. Use a low temperature iron. Metallics feature nylon or other synthetic fibers that can (and will!) melt at the cotton setting. Try a synthetic or low temperature setting. Always test a scrap first. As it goes with ironing so it goes with drying. If you plan to put your quilt in the dryer, use a low or delicate setting.
4. Use a soft brush off chalk to mark quilting lines. Tailor's Chalk 882685WHT is perfect for lamés. Marks show up well yet brush away without difficulty.