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Embossing Velvets: Types of Velvet

I list sources for each type of velvet after the velvet type's description, below.

  • DO NOT use nylon, polyester, or acrylic fibers - See Important Notes on Fiber Content.
  • NOT panne, crushed or stretch velvet, or velveteen.
  • NOT velvet with sparkles, sequins, metallic threads etc. - Mmm-elty!
  • I say NOT cotton - not great results, but it might suit your project. I have read of good results with a cotton/acetate blend in one online forum, but have no personal experience.

I recommend only the following velvets for aesthetic and/or safety reasons:

Bottom line is that you should probably try out several velvets made from these materials and see what suits your tastes and the needs of the particular project(s) you have. I recommend that you purchase samples and try them out before investing in large quantities. Get enough to allow you to test out both the velvet and the stamping technique itself.

Acetate/rayon blend

Highly Recommended! Try it at least once - even if it does not fit for your projects. It is extremely satisfying. It is my velvet of choice.

acetate rayon blend acetate rayon blend


Fidelio velvet by JB Martin is the top of the line. It is a 65% acetate/35% rayon blend and has a dense nap. Fidelio can be hard to find and is pricey, but it is worth it. This is the velvet that gives you embossed images that are not only lovely to look at, but also fun to touch. Crisp. They also create some velvets that will give you more striking effects - nacre velvet - the back of the velvet is one color, and the fibers that make of the pile are another, which creates an iridescent effect. I have been very impressed with how it holds up to wear and tear. I USE my velvet scarves. They get wrapped, bunched, tied, packed, pulled, caught in bad weather and caught it things. On ones that are years old, my images are still there and strong. Sure - there are some areas on the velvet that have gotten a little shiny in spots, but overall, it is tough stuff.

Note that I recently purchased what was called a Fidelio velvet at a local store and it was not Fidelio - it seems it even had nylon in the fiber content. It is possible that there are knock-off products being made. Check the fiber content to be sure it is acetate/rayon. Fidelio has 5 red lines running along each edge of the fabric. If you have managed to purchase some before, you can also shop with your sample in hand to compare the look/feel and density of any velvet that is being sold as Fidelio.

Online Sources: Brick and Mortar Stores:
  • A JB Martin rep told me that Jo-Ann Fabrics can custom order Fidelio, but that they do not currently keep it stocked in their stores.
  • Fabric Place - If you are in the New England area this is where I have purchased most of my Fidelio velvet over the years. Please note that they only sell home decorating fabrics online and at their Custom Design locations. You will want to go to one of their locations in Framingham, Woburn, Warwick or Randolph. (I have only ever been to Woburn and Framingham). Check out their remnant tables, and you will usually be able to find 3+ yard remnants for about $11 a yard. Great deal - and often in many more colors than you find at full price.
Sources for other acetate/rayon blends - some seems to be Fidelio, but it is not mentioned by name:
top of page

Silk/Rayon blend

Recommended. The images you get can be more ghostly & shifting than those you get with the acetate/rayon.

silk rayon blend


The fabric tends to be a lighter weight and you do not get as much of the feel of the image pressed into the pile. It also may be more likely to droop and pick up impressions from the edges of the stamps, etc. Pay special attention to keeping the water misting light, as well as other factors that could help you avoid this effect.

The fabric itself feels silky and lovely and has a wonderful drape for shawls and other clothing.

Online Sources:

100% Rayon and 100% Silk

Also good. But the acetate/rayon and silk/rayon are better, in my opinion.