Gluing rhinestones to fabric can be trickier than crafting on other surfaces and materials, so it's important to prepare the fabric properly and choose the right application materials. In this guide, we'll cover how to glue rhinestones to fabric, including the best types of rhinestones, the best types of glue, application steps, and extra tips. Learn what you need to start bedazzling all your clothes like a pro!
Table of Contents
- What Type of Rhinestone Are You Working With?
- What's the Best Glue for Rhinestones on Fabric?
- How Do You Glue Rhinestones to Fabric Step by Step?
What Type of Rhinestone Are You Working With?
Before we get into the best glue for rhinestone application, we need to define the different kinds available. You have several rhinestone options.
Hotfix Rhinestones
Hotfix rhinestones, or heat-set stones, are wonderful for wearables because they create a durable, flexible bond on most fabrics. These stones have heat-activated adhesive built into the back, so you don't need to use a separate glue. You just need a hot fix applicator tool, such as a heat press, wand, or iron.
Flatback Rhinestones
Flatback rhinestones, which include options like acrylic rhinestones and resin rhinestones, require an adhesive like Gem-Tac or E6000. There is no built-in adhesive on the back, so you won't need any heat tools.
The ideal rhinestone depends on the type of project and your application experience or preferences. Some people find separate glue to be messy, but others worry about the damage heat tools can do to fabrics.
Simply put, hot rhinestones are best for wearables, while flatback stones are ideal for sensitive fabrics or general bedazzling projects.
What's the Best Glue for Rhinestones on Fabric?
Gluing a few rhinestones to fabric may sound easy, but it's important to use the right materials. Knowing which adhesives to use makes your fabric projects go more smoothly. These are four popular options to consider:
- Gem-Tac: Gem-Tac is the ultimate glue for bedazzling fabrics and wearables. Unlike other glues, it stays flexible, so it can move with fabrics and withstand gentle washing cycles. It's also an excellent glue for crafting projects involving wood or vinyl and is popular for its non-toxic formula. Apply Gem-Tac to the item with a precision applicator tip to avoid excess glue.
- E6000: If you're looking for maximum adhesion, the best rhinestone glue for strength and durability is E6000. This industrial-strength adhesive creates incredibly strong bonds. It does offer some flexibility, but not as much as Gem-Tac.
- Hot Glue Gun: Hot glue guns are one of the easiest ways to adhere rhinestones to surfaces, thanks to the built-in precision applicator tip and heat functions. If you're making decor or bedazzling accessories, you can complete projects quickly, gluing rhinestones at lightning speed. However, the rigid glue is best for hard surfaces and projects that don't need high-level durability.
- Heat-Activated, Built-In Glue: This glue comes on the back of hotfix rhinestones, so you don't need to buy it separately from the crystals. You just need a heat tool to melt the glue and create the bond. Hotfix stones are excellent for a wide range of projects, including wearables. However, avoid using them on materials or items that could be damaged by heat.
Whatever type of adhesion method you go with, you'll find all the rhinestones you need at Planet Rhinestone. We carry a vast selection of hotfix and flatback rhinestones in all shapes, sizes, and colors, as well as specialty glues for your bedazzling projects.
How Do You Glue Rhinestones to Fabric Step by Step?
To help you execute your rhinestone-studded fabric projects, we've put together this step-by-step guide. Keep this handy when working on your project so you don't miss a step.
Step 1: Prep Your Fabric
Before you start the fun part, you need to prepare your fabric for bedazzling. It's important to do this even if the item is brand-new. Wash and dry it to remove any oils, residue, extra chemicals, or moisture. Do not use fabric softener!
Once your garment or item is clean and dry, assess it for wrinkles. You want an even surface to ensure strong, complete bonds. If there are any wrinkles or creases, iron them out to create a smooth, taut surface.
Step 2: Plan Your Layout Before You Glue
Now that your garment is prepped, you can start to plan out your design. Use tape to define your design area and ensure a symmetrical final result. Placement boundaries keep the design right where it should be.
If you like, you can use washable fabric markers to lay out your design and where you want the stones to go. We suggest placing rhinestones without any glue first, to make sure the design will look how you envision it. Check for even spacing and assess the overall appearance before bonding any of the rhinestones to the fabric.
The best way to handle rhinestones is with a rhinestone pickup tool. This precision tool makes it easy to place rhinestones exactly where you want them, rather than fumbling with your fingers.
Step 3: Apply the Glue
Working in sections, apply a tiny dot of glue to your designated rhinestone spots using a precision tip. Start with a few rhinestones at a time, so the glue doesn't dry before you position the stones.
Only use a small amount of glue, enough to cover the stone's back without leaving any excess glue around the stone's edges. If too much comes out, you can clean away the drips with a little nail polish remover that contains acetone.
If you're using hotfix rhinestones with built-in glue, leave the rhinestones in their designated spots on the fabric and fix them in place by gently but firmly pressing your heat tool onto each stone for 10–15 seconds with even pressure. You should also work in sections for this application method.
Step 4: Set and Cure
Once all of your rhinestones are bonded to the fabric, you should leave the item alone for 24–72 hours. Make sure you lay it on a flat surface. Do not touch or move the garment during the curing process, as that can cause stones to fall off or move. The longer it cures, the stronger the bonds will be.
When the glue has fully cured, you can wash the garment. Turn it inside out and use the gentlest wash cycle. For the first few washes, air-dry the garment to avoid melting the glue in the dryer.
Become a Fabric-Bedazzling Pro
Ultimately, knowing how to glue rhinestones to fabric comes down to understanding which adhesives to use and how to handle the material. Only work with clean, dry, flat fabrics, and use fabric glue or hotfix rhinestones for the most durable, flexible results. With these simple tips, you can bedazzle everything from backpacks and sneakers to hoodies and bathing suits.
FAQs
Can I use a regular hot glue gun to glue rhinestones to fabric?
Yes, a hot glue gun is definitely an option for bedazzling with rhinestones. However, we recommend using it on hard surfaces only. Hot glue is somewhat rigid when it cools, so it's not great for flexible materials like fabric. It's also not always wash-resistant. For flexible materials, use fabric glue for rhinestones, like Gem-Tac.
Do hotfix rhinestones require any additional glue?
No! That's the beauty of hotfix rhinestones. They have rhinestone glue built into the backside, and all you need to activate the adhesive is a little heat. This allows the rhinestone to bond directly to the material, usually fabric.
Will glued rhinestones survive the washing machine?
Yes, glued rhinestones can be put in the washing machine if you use the right glue. For fabric, we recommend using Gem-Tac, as it's specifically designed to adhere to fabrics and withstand washing and wearing.
When you wash your rhinestone-studded garments, it's best to turn them inside out and run a gentle cycle. Air-drying is also ideal. Remember to let the Gem-Tac dry and cure fully before wearing, washing, or even moving your project.