Paillette Sequins - Sequin Discs - Round Sequin

What exactly are paillette sequins?
The term "paillette" (derived from the French word for spangle or small straw) refers specifically to sequins that are significantly larger, occasionally shaped differently, and designed to move with greater fluidity. The hole is not in the center as with standard "cup" sequins, but close to the edge so that it moves to shimmer and catch the light.

While standard sequins generally range from 3mm to 7mm and are almost always round, paillettes begin where standard sequins end. They commonly measure between 10mm and 30mm (up to an inch or more) across.

They can be found in different shapes such as ovals, leaves, diamonds and even fish scales but they are most commonly found as a circle or disc.

Suggestions for Using Paillette Sequins

Paillettes are not just for high-end couture or stage wear. Their structure makes them highly versatile for DIY fashion, accessories, and even home décor projects. They offer a simple way to elevate an everyday item into a spectacular, textural work of art.

1. Fashion & Upcycling: The Statement Piece

Due to their weight and drama, paillettes are best used to create focused points of interest or entire garments where maximum impact is desired.

A. The Textured Jacket or Skirt

For large projects, instead of attaching sequins individually, consider buying pre-strung paillettes (available on ribbons or strips) and sewing these rows onto a garment or you can even attach your paillettes to the ribbon that best matches your project color.

• Tip: Focus on a single zone, such as the shoulders of a blazer or the hem of a denim skirt. Overlap tear-drop paillettes in two or three complementary colors (like rose gold and copper) to create a rich, scaly texture that moves beautifully.

B. Ombre and Color-Blocking

Use different sizes or colors of paillettes to create a dimensional fade. Start with large, dark-toned paillettes at the bottom of a skirt and gradually transition to smaller, lighter, or iridescent ones near the waistline. Because of the paillette’s size, the color shift is sudden and dramatic.

C. Collar and Cuff Embellishment

If you want a designer look without covering an entire garment, use large paillettes to create a chunky, armor-like trim for a simple cotton dress collar or the cuffs of a blouse. It instantly transforms a basic piece into something high fashion.

2. Accessories: Bold and Lightweight Glamour

Paillettes are often made from lightweight PVC or acrylic, making them surprisingly comfortable for jewelry and accessories.

A. Statement Earrings and Brooches

Paillettes are perfect for DIY jewelry as they are flashy yet light. Glue or sew them onto a felt backing cut into a bold shape (like a feather or cluster) and attach an earring post. A single cluster of large gold paillettes on a brooch can mimic the look of hammered metal.

B. Upcycled Handbags

Transform a plain leather or canvas clutch. Sew a vertical stripe of large, iridescent paillettes down the center of the bag. The movement of the paillettes replaces the need for standard tassel fringe, giving the accessory a modern, kinetic edge.

C. Shoe Transformation

Take a pair of simple black heels or flats and cover the entire heel or toe box with tightly overlapping round or square paillettes. This is an excellent way to cover scuffs and elevate old footwear into special occasion shoes.

3. Home Décor & Crafting: The Unexpected Sparkle

Paillettes bring a level of expensive-looking texture to craft projects that standard glitter or small beads cannot achieve.

A. Paillette Art Canvas

Forget flat painting. Use hot glue or strong fabric cement to completely cover a small, stretched canvas with overlapping paillettes. This creates a highly textured, abstract wall hanging that changes appearance depending on the room's lighting. Choose a monochromatic palette (e.g., all silver or all black iridescent) for the most sophisticated result.

B. Luxe Holiday Ornaments

Paillettes make stunning additions to holiday décor. Use them to completely cover plain styrofoam spheres to create robust, glittering ornaments. Their large size means the ornament is covered quickly, and the resulting shine is far richer than standard tinsel glitter.

C. Unique Curtains and Garlands

String large, flat paillettes onto heavy beading wire or fishing line. You can create a sparkling, modern garland for a fireplace mantle, or string multiple lines together to form a unique, shimmering curtain or room divider that catches light while still providing an ephemeral, airy separation.

Final Tip: Sewing with Paillettes

Because paillettes are large and designed for movement, they need sturdy support. Always use a strong, double strand of thread (or specialized sequin thread) when stitching them down. For maximum movement, attach them at the top hole, allowing the rest of the disc to hang free. For solid coverage (like armor or fish scales), ensure they overlap by at least one-third and secure the base of the fabric firmly with an anchoring knot.

Embracing the paillette is embracing drama. They are the perfect tool for crafting pieces that genuinely move, glint, and shimmer with an undeniable, eye-catching energy.