The web site quilty-louise posted are great source of Mylar info. Our teacher always brings our supplies. Yes, you need the special mylar and it can be washed and ironed. I have always used patterns special for mylar and just lay it on top of fabric and let the machine do it's work and yes it is very simple to take off the extra. I loved the way the orange and red mylar looked in the designs. I have also made greeting cards using the mylar patterns. Are really cute.