If you’ve worked with tulle before, you may be aware of the fact that this delicate, synthetic fabric cannot go in the dryer or be ironed because heat will cause it to melt. What you might be wondering is just how safe this fabric is when it comes into contact with flame. While you naturally do not want to try this out since your tulle will almost certainly melt, you probably want to know how flammable this fabric is before you use it to create a tutu or wrap a glass candle holder. For the sake of safety, it’s important to understand whether tulle is flame retardant or not.
In truth, it depends entirely on the type of tulle you use and where you purchase it. For example, it is common amongst manufacturers overseas to use chemicals on fabric that are not permitted in the United States, and these may certainly be flammable. But textiles manufactured domestically must meet certain standards, especially where flammability is concerned. And tulle is no exception. If you purchase 100% nylon, which has undergone extensive testing by the U.S. Consumer Protection Safety Commission, you can feel secure knowing that anything you make is going to be flame retardant (although not necessarily heat resistant, so make sure you use it accordingly). It has been approved for use in clothing, costumes, and so on because it has already met acceptable standards.
Polyester tulle, which is more often used for decorative purposes rather than for clothing, is a different story. It may or may not be flame retardant. If you are concerned, you should ask your retailer. In many cases, polyester tulle is treated with chemical products to ensure that it is flame retardant. But depending on what you plan to use it for, this might not be particularly important to you. If it is, look for 100% nylon tulle, which is guaranteed to be flame retardant.
The main thing to remember when purchasing tulle products is that you cannot necessarily trust those that are manufactured and sold outside of North America. The standards for production (and advertising, for that matter) in other countries are very different from the federally mandated quality requirements in the United States, so if you want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re getting exactly what is advertised, it’s best to buy from domestic manufacturers and retailers that are bound by U.S. laws.
Black W/ Hot Pink Small Dot Tulle Rolls
Economy Colored Polyester Tulle In Rolls
White Honeycomb Tulle
Polka Dot Tulle Rolls
Sparkling Tulle Rolls
Premium Colored Nylon Tulle In Rolls
Metallic Tulle In Rolls
Small Metallic Polka Dot Tulle Rolls
Premium Colored Nylon Tulle In Rolls
Black Polka Dot Tulle In Bolts
Fine Mesh Tulle Bolts
Sparkling Tulle Bolts
Premium Colored Tulle In Bolts
Shimmer Tulle Bolts
Fine Mesh Tulle Bolts
Sparkling Tulle Bolts
Economy Colored Polyester Tulle In Bolts
Shimmer Tulle Bolts
Tulle Circles
Sparkling Tulle Rolls
Prima Tulle & Satin Pom Pom Pull Bows
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So does this mean the premium colored nylon tulle you sell in 6″x25 and 100 yard rolls is made in the USA and complies with the U.S. standards? The link in the article takes you to the bolt size page and doesn’t have all the same color choices as the smaller rolls.
Hi Elaine,
We offer our Premium Colored Nylon Tulle in bolts and smaller sizes. The description will be the same- “Premium Colored Nylon Tulle,” “100% nylon,” etc. The premium tulle also holds its shape better than the economy tulle and is better at resisting wrinkles. Links to the bolts and rolls are included below for your convenience:
Premium Color Tulle in bolts
Premium Color Tulle in rolls
Hope this helps. Thank you!
Do you sell flame retardant satin ribbons?
Hello, Unfortunately, we currently don’t carry any ribbons rated for flame retardancy. Thank you for your message!
Can I use tulle with holiday lights? Making glass block decorations using tulle and a strand of 20 lights.
Thanks
Hi Jackie,
It’s not recommended. As the article mentions, even flame retardant tulle may not be heat resistant. We ask that you use discretion whenever you are working with materials that have the possibility of melting or igniting after prolonged exposure to heat or other hazardous elements. We hope this helps!
Is the polyester tulle this site sells flame retardant?
Hi Nicole, at this time the tulle we sell is not flame retardant. Please let us know if you have any other questions. Thanks!