Sequin backdrops are so popular right now, but they can be pricey. So, I decided to make my own! This DIY step-by-step guide will show you how to create a sequin backdrop for yourself at home, using materials you probably already have laying around the house.
Materials Needed
- Sequin fabric
- Iron on backing (or iron and ironing board)
- Scissors or paper cutter
- Sewing machine with at least a straight stitch and zigzag stitch (optional)
We’ll also show you how to utilize adhesive strips, which are the next best thing if you don’t have a sewing machine. These come in particularly helpful when creating larger backgrounds for events like weddings or parties.
Iron on the backing
Now you’re ready to iron on the backing. Make sure that you’re ironing on the wrong side of your fabric so that when it’s flipped over and hung up, no one will see how messy your ironing job was. You can use a regular iron or even a heat press for this step, but be careful not to burn yourself!
Create the first layer
Iron on the backing to the first layer of fabric so that both sides are smooth and flat. Iron on the second layer of fabric so that both sides are smooth and flat, then cover all edges with the third piece of material (to keep them covered).
Complete step 2 above, except using a white or light-colored material instead of black or other dark colors! You want your sequins to show through!
Iron on the second layer: Iron the second layer of tulle on top of your first layer. This will help attach the two layers together and make them less likely to tear apart.
Cover the edges
Now you need to cover the edges of your sequin backdrop. To do so, you can use fabric glue or a hot glue gun.
Fabric glue will hold better than hot glue but is also more time-consuming. If you choose this option, start at the top left corner of your backdrop and drip some of the fabric glue onto your table or floor as shown in the picture above. Next, carefully place one edge of your backdrop next to it, then press firmly with an iron until it’s set. Repeat this step all around until you’ve reached the right side and bottom corners! You should have a nice seamless look when finished!
Another option is using fabric tape (also known as double-sided tape). This method takes less time than gluing but may not be as durable over time due to its adhesive qualities being much weaker than hot glue’s adhesiveness power.
Complete the second layer
Iron on the second layer. This will make it stiffer, which is great for hanging up.
Cover the edges with a strip of fabric that matches the first layer. This will hide any raw edges and give it a more professional look.
Hang it up! You can use hooks or tacks to hang your backdrop from a wall or ceiling, but if you want to create something that looks more like wallpaper (and less like curtains), try hanging them over curtain rods and attaching them directly to your window frame with brackets that are sold specifically for this purpose (which we did in our house).
Hang it up!
You can now hang up your beautiful new backdrop! Make sure you have enough space for the backdrop and hang it up with tape or wire. Use masking or painter’s tape to make sure it is straight and level if you are hanging from a wall (you want those sequins to look gorgeous!)
Helpful Tips
- Use a cutting mat and rotary cutter for extra safety.
- Cut the fabric to size with a ruler and hot glue gun, if needed.
- Sand any rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper before applying tacky glue or spray adhesive to your backdrop’s back side so it sticks better to the wall!
Conclusion
It’s a good skill to have, and it’s never too late to start. You can make everything you want, any size you want, and any color you want. And if you don’t know how to sew yet? We’ve got some tutoring tips for that at the end of this post!
Some tips:
Use an iron on high heat (or steam) before sewing your pieces together. It will help them slide easily through the machine without stretching out or puckering up.
Use a rotary cutter instead of scissors whenever possible—it will save time!
Don’t be afraid to use large pieces of fabric when creating your backdrop design—you can always cut them down later. Well, there you have it, a simple way to create your own sequin backdrop. I hope this has been helpful for you and that you are able to use these tips in your own projects!
