What is lurex – fabric or thread?

Lurex is commonly perceived as the eye-catching sparkle in textiles, but what precisely is it? Is it a kind of fabric or is it just a thread that gives textiles a shimmer? Because of how frequently the term is used in the fashion industry, this can be a little confusing.

To put it simply, Lurex isn’t a fabric in and of itself. In reality, it’s a metallic thread woven into other materials to add a lustrous, reflective coating. This thread adds that well-known glittering effect to a variety of fabrics, from knits to wovens.

Knowing what Lurex is can help you choose fabrics for clothing and other projects more wisely, regardless of your interest in the material’s appearance or special properties.

Lurex Description
Material Type Lurex can be both a fabric and a thread. It is often woven into other fabrics to add a shiny, metallic look.
Appearance It has a glittery, shiny surface, making it popular for festive and glamorous outfits.
Composition Made from a blend of synthetic fibers, often coated with aluminum or other metals for the metallic effect.
Uses Commonly used in evening wear, party dresses, accessories, and decorative textiles.
Care Lurex fabrics may require gentle handling, such as hand washing or using a delicate cycle, to avoid damage.

Lurex and ryulex

Many say and write "ryulex," "ryulix," or "lurex," having heard the material’s name out of the corner of their ear. Sometimes eyelets are referred to as "lurex." This kind of confusion makes perfect sense given the intricate arrangement of sounds. It’s actually clear what to spell when asking how to properly pronounce "ryulex" or "lurex":

The spelling lurex (lurex) is correct.

Lurex Company Limited was the original name of the company that distributed the metallic thread. It was created with entirely different uses in mind than those of today. Cigarette packs were printed with the aid of thread. However, it quickly joined the fashion industry.

Lurex is a special substance with a metallic sheen that can be used as both a thread and a fabric. It gives apparel and accessories a shimmering effect that makes them stand out with a hint of glitz. Although lustrous designs are frequently created by weaving lurex threads into fabrics, they can also be used alone for knitting or embellishing. This adaptable material adds glitz to any ensemble, whether used in full outfits or as tiny accents.

Description

A metallic-shiny thread called lurex is used to embellish textiles.

It can come in various hues and densities.

There is no use of Lurex separately. To make fabric, the thread is either incorporated into yarn or linked to additional fibers. An explanation of the most well-liked textiles for Lurex:

  • Knitwear. Machine knitted fabric. Has a smooth structure of the weaving of the canvas. Lurex threads, as a rule, are very thin and barely distinguishable even near. This creates the effect of flickering. Photo:

  • Brocade. There is silk, viscose, cotton, elastane. Lurex threads are used to create a pattern. This is a strong, relatively stiff fabric that holds well. On the sections it pours strongly.

  • Guipure. A type of lace with a convex pattern. Between the patterns of dense threads there is a transparent mesh. Guipure can be thick or thin. The first is used to make evening dresses, the second – for underwear (panties, bras, negligees, seductive sets).

  • Organza. Thin, hard, transparent fabric. It is made by twisting two fibers of polyester, viscose or silk. Lurex is woven into the fabric or creates three-dimensional patterns.

  • Jacquard. One of the most durable and long-lasting fabrics. Large-patterned jacquard, with complex or simple weave. The base pattern contains over 24 differently intertwined threads.

Composition

The polyester fiber used to make lurex thread has been dyed a metallic hue. This material is entirely synthetic.

Ancient Egypt woven textiles with metal threads. They were made of silver and gold. The metal was flattened by blacksmiths into thin plates, which were then delaminated. Originally, metallized thread in the modern world was composed of foil (aluminum, copper, brass, nickel). A unique film-emulsion was applied to it for durability and oxidation resistance. This technology is still employed by some manufacturers.

Up to 50% of fabrics are made of lurex (usually up to 20%). It is most frequently combined with acrylic, polyester, cotton, and viscose.

There are still more choices available. For instance, lurex-infused wool threads are used to make women’s and children’s tights, where lurex thread is mixed with elastane and polyamide.

Characteristics

Numerous factors, including composition, weaving, density, and many more, affect a fabric’s properties. It is challenging to pinpoint the general characteristics of the material because lurex alone cannot make up the fabric. It can be supple and elastic, breathable and non-breathable, robust and rough.

The fabric’s strength and rigidity are increased by lurex. Although it can occasionally prickle when in close proximity to the skin, it maintains its shape better.

Features of lurex threads include:

  • soft;
  • flexible;
  • resistant to tearing;
  • has low electrical conductivity;
  • abrasion resistant;
  • oxidation resistant.

It is important to note that lurex threads manufactured using foil have lower durability. They can rip easily and prickle and irritate clothing when it comes into contact with the body.

Does fabric with lurex stretch or not?

A fabric’s ability to stretch is contingent upon its nature and composition. Indicators of good stretchability include spandex, lycra, and elastane.

Additionally, knit clothing stretches fairly well. Brocade, organza, and jacquard are examples of non-elastic fabrics. Products made with lurex thread are more rigid and stretch less than those made with similar materials without lurex.

Clothing with lurex

Lurex fabrics are primarily used to make women’s apparel, including exquisite gowns, striking blouses, coats, suits, caps, tights, stockings, and undergarments.

With the rise in popularity of the "disco" style in the 1970s and 1980s, lurex first gained popularity in the 20th century. The fabric’s artificial sheen has grown to be an essential component. Sparkling thread was mostly used for sewing tops. Bill Gibb, the renowned designer of the 1970s, demonstrated the first such top.

The use of lurex in fabrics saw multiple resurgences in fashion. Young people wore lurex-threaded sweaters and hats in the 1990s. Picture:

We are currently witnessing another upsurge in the demand for glittery fabrics.

Particularly in style right now is "chameleon" effect knitwear. It works well for a cardigan, skirt, evening blouse, and dress. A shine like that appears very joyous. The fabric shimmers in the light, highlighting the owner’s beautiful forms.

Evaluations of clothing containing lurex vary. It’s ideal for people who enjoy brightness. The attire is best suited for an evening function. It’s important for owners of curvaceous shapes to remember that shiny fabrics add volume.

Where else is the material used?

A lot of people use metallic thread. With it, they create:

  • fly fishing flies (sport fishing);
  • curtains, tulle;
  • upholstery for upholstered furniture;
  • bedspreads and covers;
  • souvenir toys, Christmas tree decorations;
  • uniform insignia (shoulder straps, hats).

Because it provides a distinctive combination of flexibility and metallic shine, lustrex is a popular material for textiles and clothing. It gives clothing and accessories a unique look whether it is used as a fabric on its own or as a thread to add sparkle.

Due to lurex’s adaptability, designers are able to explore a variety of looks, from dramatic evening wear to simple, everyday pieces. It will always be a favorite among people who want to stand out because of its capacity to catch the light and provide visual interest.

It’s crucial to consider lurex’s characteristics, including its texture and effect on the fabric’s overall appearance, when planning your next project. Lurex can improve any design by adding that unique touch of glitz and sophistication when used properly.

Video on the topic

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What fabric do you most often choose for home textiles?
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Sergey Litvinov

I have been working in the field of textile art for over 20 years. I am passionate about textile design and create unique things inspired by traditions and modern trends. In my articles, I talk about how you can use fabrics to create unique and stylish things with your own hands.

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Tkani-Furnitura.com
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