Spangles

Bezants, oes, gauffres, wafers, lovertjes, branlants, colfacches, Brakteats … spangles! These small pieces of metal – gold/silver gilt/silver/copper alloy/tin alloy – either cast or stamped, were sewn onto clothing to create a glittering design. They often formed part of surface decoration that might also include embroidery in silk and pearl embroidery. They are an inexpensive and effective way to add splendor to your clothing!

Some were sewn on tightly; some from a single point so they trembled as the wearer moved. Some were simple circles or plain designs like little cinquefoils; some were custom items for the nobility in heraldic designs or emblems like lions, planes and wood shavings, antelopes, forget-me-nots, initials, etc.; some were were gems in settings that permitted them to be sewn down. Mac has quite a good Pinterest board of them which we invite you to check out.

We supply both replica spangles (from originals or from extant molds) and spangles “in the style of” the Middle Ages. Spangles are sold by the dozen.