Lame Fabric

Lame Fabric by the Metre

Lame fabric is a metallic knit with a distinctive shine, woven or knitted with fine metallic threads running through the fabric base. You'll find it in our jersey fabrics range, sold by the metre and ready for direct shipping from our Tilburg warehouse. The reflective surface makes it a go-to choice for anyone working on stage costumes, dance outfits or eye-catching statement pieces. Because it's part of our wider fabric by the metre collection, you can combine an order with other stretch jersey types in a single shipment.

What lame fabric is used for

Lame is a costume fabric first and foremost. Theatre productions, dance schools and performance groups use it to create pieces that need to catch light under stage spotlights. Think disco-era outfits, futuristic or sci-fi inspired costumes, and anything that needs a metallic, almost otherworldly finish. It also works well for decoration purposes, such as accents on backdrops, table dressing for themed events, or trims on existing garments. Because the fabric has some give, it drapes reasonably well for fitted costume pieces, though it's worth testing a small offcut before cutting into a full pattern.

Working with a metallic knit

Sewing lame asks for a bit of care. A ballpoint needle prevents snagging the metallic yarns, and a slightly looser tension avoids puckering along the seams. Many makers back the fabric with a lightweight lining, since the base knit can be sheer depending on the metallic weight used. If you're new to this fabric, it helps to order a swatch first and test your stitch settings on a scrap before committing to the full costume piece.

Ordering lame fabric: metres, samples and stock

• Available to order by the metre, so you buy exactly the length your pattern needs
• Fabric samples can be requested for €0.50, useful for checking shine, colour and hand-feel before ordering the full length
• Suitable for both private customers making one-off costumes and businesses sourcing for theatre or dance productions
• Shipped from our warehouse in Tilburg, with orders processed quickly

Related jersey and stretch fabrics

If lame isn't quite the finish you're after, a few related fabrics in our jersey range might fit better. Jersey Glitter Fabric gives you sparkle without the full metallic sheen, often a softer option for children's costumes or everyday wear with a bit of shimmer. For something with more structure and stretch, Scuba Crepe Jersey Fabric holds its shape well in fitted garments. Looking for texture instead of shine, our Waffle Knit Jersey Fabric and Ottoman Rib Jersey Fabric both bring a different tactile quality that suits more casual projects. And for a warmer, brushed alternative, check the French Terry Brushed Fabric (Isoli) in the same collection.

In short

Lame fabric remains a solid pick when a costume or decorative project calls for genuine metallic shine. Order it by the metre, request a sample first if you're unsure about the finish, and pair it with the right needle and lining for a clean result. Browse the full range and pick the length that suits your next stage or dance project.