Lame Fabric – Fabric Base Inc. | Wholesale Fabric Supplier in Los Angeles
Lame fabric (pronounced "lah-MAY") is a bold, shimmering textile known for its metallic appearance and high visual impact. Often used in fashion, dancewear, costumes, and event decor, lame adds drama and shine wherever it’s applied. At Fabric Base Inc., a leading wholesale fabric warehouse in Los Angeles, we supply a variety of lame fabrics by the roll, ideal for designers, decorators, and manufacturers seeking a metallic finish.
What Is Lame Fabric?
Lame is a woven or knit fabric that has metallic fibers or yarns—usually gold, silver, or colored—interwoven with synthetic or natural threads. Most modern lame fabrics are made using polyester or nylon, blended with metallic threads to create a reflective surface. The fabric may be smooth, crinkled, stretchable, or even sheer depending on the construction.
Because of its shine and distinctive look, lame is typically used for statement pieces or accents rather than everyday garments.
Common Applications
Lame fabric is highly versatile and is used in many industries that prioritize visual appeal and performance. Common applications include:
Fashion: Evening gowns, jackets, skirts, and statement pieces where a metallic finish adds glamour and edge.
Costume Design: Popular for stage, dance, Halloween, and performance costumes thanks to its eye-catching sparkle under lights.
Dancewear & Ice Skating Apparel: Frequently used in performance attire that requires stretch and shimmer.
Event Decor: Tablecloths, chair sashes, backdrop drapes, and stage accents for weddings, galas, and themed events.
Crafts & Accessories: Used in bags, belts, decorative trims, and DIY fashion projects.
Types of Lame Fabric
Plain Lame: Features a flat metallic surface, often with a smooth or glossy finish.
Stretch Lame: A knit version that includes spandex or elastane, making it ideal for form-fitting costumes and apparel.
Crinkled Lame: Has a textured, rippled effect that adds depth and dimension.
Sheer or Mesh Lame: Lightweight with transparency and a metallic sheen, often used for overlays and layering.
Benefits of Lame Fabric
High Visual Impact: Lame’s reflective surface captures light beautifully, making it stand out on stage, camera, or runway.
Versatile Styling: Available in a range of colors, weights, and textures for fashion, décor, or performance use.
Lightweight Options: Despite its bold look, many lame fabrics are relatively light and easy to drape or layer.
Stretch Variants Available: Knit lame with spandex offers flexibility for costumes and dancewear that require movement.
Fashion-Forward Appeal: Metallic finishes are often used in high-fashion looks and trend-driven seasonal collections.
Washing & Care Instructions
Lame is a delicate fabric and requires special care to maintain its appearance and structure:
Washing: Hand wash only in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid soaking, wringing, or scrubbing the fabric.
Drying: Lay flat or hang to dry. Never tumble dry, as heat can damage metallic threads.
Ironing: Do not iron directly. If necessary, use a pressing cloth on a low setting and test a small area first.
Storage: Store flat or rolled to avoid creasing. Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Tip: Always test a small piece before cleaning the full item to ensure the fabric reacts well to your chosen method.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is lame fabric itchy or uncomfortable?
A: Lame fabric can be slightly scratchy due to the metallic threads. For comfort, it’s often lined or layered over softer materials when used in garments.
Q: Can I sew lame fabric easily?
A: Lame requires some care while sewing—it can fray, stretch, or slip. Use sharp needles and consider a stabilizer or lining for better control.
Q: Does lame fade or tarnish over time?
A: With proper care and limited exposure to heat, friction, or moisture, lame fabric retains its shine. However, metallic threads can dull if overwashed or poorly stored.
Q: Is lame fabric stretchy?
A: Some lame fabrics (especially those blended with spandex) are stretchy. Others, particularly woven lame, have little to no stretch.
Q: Do you offer lame fabric by the roll or yard?
A: We offer lame fabric by the roll for wholesale customers. Contact us for current availability, roll sizes, and pricing.
Contact Fabric Base Inc. – Wholesale Lame Fabric in Los Angeles
At Fabric Base Inc., we carry a curated selection of lame fabric in various colors, finishes, and weights. Whether you're creating a theatrical costume, planning a dazzling event, or sourcing fabric for your collection, our team is here to help.
Visit or Contact Us:
Address:
Fabric Base Inc.
773 E 14th Pl
Los Angeles, CA 90021
Phone:
(213) 745-7688
(213) 745-7918
Email:
info@fabricbases.com
Explore our full collection of performance and specialty fabrics, including lame, sequins, velvet, and sublimation styles. Visit our Los Angeles showroom or reach out for more details and fabric samples.
