What Is Metallic Fabric? Meaning, Properties & Uses

What is metallic fabric?

Metallic fabrics contain metal-coloured yarns or coatings, creating a shimmering surface. They range from subtle lurex threads to bold foil and leather finishes. This range includes metallic velvet, bouclé and leather-finish cloths.

Metallic fabric in Hindi

In Hindi, metallic fabric is written as मेटैलिक. In everyday Indian trade talk you will also hear it called "metallic kapda" or "metallic cloth".

Properties of metallic fabric

Property	Typical
Weight	60 to 340 GSM
Best for	party wear, jackets, gowns, evening bags and statement pieces
Care	Embellished fabrics such as sequins and embroidery are best hand-washed inside out or dry-cleaned

GSM is grams per square metre. Convert it to weight per metre with our GSM calculator.

What is metallic fabric used for?

Common uses include party wear, jackets, gowns, evening bags and statement pieces.

How to choose metallic fabric

Check the handle: metallic coatings can be stiffer than the base cloth. Test pressing temperature on a scrap, as foils can mark.

How to wash and care for metallic fabric

Embellished fabrics such as sequins and embroidery are best hand-washed inside out or dry-cleaned. Avoid direct ironing on the embellishment and use a pressing cloth.

Can metallic fabric be ironed?

Usually only on a low setting, on the reverse and with a pressing cloth. Test on a scrap, because the metallic finish can mark or dull with heat.

Where to see and buy metallic fabric

You can browse real metallic fabric designs, with prices per metre, in our metallic fabric collection. Trade buyers can ask for samples and bulk pricing through our contact page.