Hey! you might be interested to learn there is an entire type of embroidery that uses precious metal pieces called Goldwork.

spools of precious metals that have been wound into very tight springs are used as embroidery or cut into small pieces and sewn on to make beautiful complex patterns.

and garments made this way even take on a different appearance as they oxidize over time!

no need for machining parts! just time, patience and a decent thimble.