How to attach rhinestones to a costume?
Rhinestones used for clothing and leotards usually have a flat back which is foiled in silver to add extra sparkle. They can have glue already applied (hotfix), non-hotfix or have holes for sewing.
One of the most popular methods for attaching rhinestones is to glue them on. If you use the correct glue and technique, they are amazingly strong when glued on. It is also next to impossible to sew rhinestones on thin or mesh fabric so glue is often your best option.
Here are a few tips for glueing on rhinestones:
- Practice on a scrap before you start glueing your garment. It takes a bit of practice to get the amount of glue correct and therefore we recommend practising on a fabric piece (the fabric should be the same material as the costume).
- The layer of glue should be thin and even. We recommend using a brush or a cotton swab.
- The glue should also cover the outside edges of the stone. If you just place a small drop underneath, the foil may detach leaving a round metal dot.
- For stretch fabrics (for example leotards), don’t have stones touching as it will affect the stretch of the garment around the body.
- Dry the glued garment flat so the stones don’t slip before they are dry.
- Store bottles or tubes upside down so the glue is in the nozzle ready for next use.
Use a fabric glue! Before starting to glue the crystals read the instructions on the glue bottle. The most common instructions are:
- Spread a thin layer of glue on the crystal
- Place the glued rhinestone on the fabric and let it dry for 10 min
- Apply light pressure on the crystal for 10sec
- Allow to dry 24h
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