Tailcoat Maintenance


This is a very common issue with the tailcoats - the fabric doesn't hold up for heavy use. But it's also super easy to fix. The sequins are attached to the fabric with a series of chain stitches. Once a thread snags the whole thing just pulls right out because there is no bobbin thread securing it. And because each running stitch secures more than one zig-zagging strand of sequins it's like a domino effect if you don't catch it right away.
Trim away any loose strands of thread - they will only snag more sequins and create a bigger problem area. The sleeves are the most common area where the sequins come off - probably snagging against the rest of the costume, or other people.

Any fabric glue will work - I'm using Aleene's Fabric Fusion. I just lay a line of glue right down the "zip" lines - following the stitch holes in the fabric. Secure the side strands first, and then carefully lay down the loose strand in a zig-zag pattern - crossing both lines of glue. Let it air dry - do not add heat to speed it up (it'll warp the sequins).