How can you use fringe to add movement and texture to your garment?

Fringe is a versatile and fun way to add movement and texture to your garment. Whether you want to create a flapper-inspired dress, a boho-chic jacket, or a modern statement piece, fringe can help you achieve different looks and styles. In this article, you will learn how to use fringe to enhance your fashion design skills and create unique garments that stand out.

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1 Choose the right fringe

The first step to using fringe is to choose the right type, length, and color for your garment. There are different kinds of fringe, such as chainette, beaded, leather, or tassel, that can create different effects and moods. For example, chainette fringe is soft and flowy, while beaded fringe is heavy and sparkly. The length of the fringe can also vary from a few inches to several feet, depending on how much movement and drama you want to create. The color of the fringe should complement or contrast with the main fabric of your garment, depending on the desired effect.

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Janet Sterkowicz-Walker

Artist/Apparel Design/Holistic Health Coach/QiGong Instruction
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I did a project using tie dye flat knit. Part of the design was using this fabric and cutting my own fringe to add to the sleeves. Making one's own fringe is possible. Also, fringe is going to naturally and easily show up when producing things with yarn. For example, macrame...like for a belt...can result in having the choice to use the yarn as fringe. Crochet and knitting are going to give you this option in a very organic way as well, where then beading could be considered.

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2 Plan the placement of the fringe

The next step is to plan where and how to attach the fringe to your garment. You can use fringe to accentuate certain parts of your garment, such as the hem, the sleeves, the neckline, or the waist. You can also use fringe to create patterns or shapes on your garment, such as stripes, chevrons, or circles. You can also layer different types or lengths of fringe to create more depth and texture. You should sketch your design and mark the placement of the fringe on your pattern pieces before cutting and sewing.

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3 Attach the fringe to your garment

The final step is to attach the fringe to your garment using the appropriate technique and tools. You can sew the fringe by hand or by machine, depending on the type and thickness of the fringe. You should use a sharp needle and a strong thread that matches the color of the fringe. You should also secure the ends of the fringe with a knot or a stitch to prevent unraveling. You can also use glue, pins, or clips to attach the fringe temporarily or permanently, depending on your preference and the durability of the fringe. You should test the attachment method on a scrap piece of fabric before applying it to your garment.

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AnnaLu Coco-Gorr

Owner, Sew Irresistible
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I very much like free form and love to be inspired as I go. I do like to think about it before hand, but I find I am quite inspired in the moment. I've sewn fringe in patchwork, strip piecing, seams in garments, bags and whatever else floats my boat.

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4 Care for your fringed garment

Once you have finished your fringed garment, you should take good care of it to maintain its beauty and quality. You should follow the care instructions of the fringe and the main fabric of your garment, such as washing, drying, ironing, or storing. You should also avoid pulling, tangling, or snagging the fringe, as it can damage or ruin your garment. You should also trim any loose or uneven threads from the fringe to keep it neat and tidy.

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5 Experiment with fringe

One of the best things about fringe is that you can experiment with it and create your own style and expression. You can mix and match different kinds of fringe, such as metallic, feather, or fur, to create a unique and eye-catching garment. You can also use fringe to embellish other accessories, such as bags, shoes, hats, or scarves, to add some flair and fun to your outfit. You can also use fringe to transform an old or plain garment into a new and exciting one.

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6 Learn from other designers

Another way to use fringe to improve your fashion design skills is to learn from other designers who have used fringe in their collections. You can look for inspiration and examples from different eras, cultures, and genres, such as the 1920s, the Native American, or the rock and roll. You can also study how different designers have used fringe to create different effects, such as elegance, edginess, or whimsy. You can also follow the latest trends and innovations in fringe design and see how you can incorporate them into your own work.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you use fringe to add movement and texture to your garment?

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1 Choose the right fringe

2 Plan the placement of the fringe

3 Attach the fringe to your garment

4 Care for your fringed garment

5 Experiment with fringe

6 Learn from other designers

7 Here’s what else to consider

Fashion Design

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