If you're looking to add sparkle to costumes or crafts, give hotfix rhinestones a try the next time you’re ready to get creative. What are hotfix rhinestones? These shimmering stones have a special backing that activates with heat, making your DIY designs a breeze to complete. Create the design, apply a little heat, and enjoy your bedazzled, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Table of Contents
- What Are Hotfix Rhinestones?
- How Do Hotfix Rhinestones Work?
- Hotfix vs. Non-Hotfix Rhinestones
- Best DIY Projects for Hotfix Rhinestones
- Tools You Need to Apply Hotfix Rhinestones
- Tips for Getting the Best Results
What Are Hotfix Rhinestones?
While there are several types of rhinestones, the hotfix variety is considered one of the most user-friendly options. This type of crystal has the same sparkle on the top of the gem. Flip it over, though, and you’ll see the backing is covered with a thin layer of hard, dry, heat-activated glue.
The glue is stable and non-sticky at room temperature, so you can move the hotfix crystals wherever and however you want. The changes happen when it’s exposed to high temperatures. Heat activates the glue backing and causes it to soften and adhere to surfaces.
Hotfix rhinestones are available in many sizes, depending on the color or style. They can range from SS3 (1.2-1.4mm) to SS40 (8.3-8.6mm).
Consider smaller sizes like SS4 to SS8 for intricate finishing details, SS16 or SS20 for bolder sparkle on clothing and decor, and S10 or SS12 for that happy medium. You can often find them in pre-made kit collections or sold as loose rhinestones.
Hotfix stones also come in many shapes, materials, and finishes — from everyday shine to maximum shimmer and aurora borealis rainbow effects. Glimmering acrylic rhinestones are durable and won't weigh down lightweight fabric, while glass and diamond-cut rhinestones capture and refract light for superior sparkle.
How Do Hotfix Rhinestones Work?
Hotfix rhinestones have a simple activation process that needs one thing: heat. You use a heat applicator tool and press the stone onto your fabric or decor piece. Keep applying heat for about 5 to 10 seconds, then release.
Next, check that the stones are secure, and reapply heat to any loose ones for another 5 seconds. Then let the design cool. Presto! Your elevated items are ready to go.
The two most important application tools are the heat press and the hotfix wand. To hot fix rhinestones onto your design, use these heating devices plus specialized pickers to lay out and create your custom works of art.
After the adhesive cools, it creates a strong bond between the gem and your material. Bedazzled clothing can also be washed, but it’s best to hand-wash in cool water. You can also put the clothes in a mesh bag and set the washing machine on the gentle cycle. Hang to dry, as dryer heat is too intense and may loosen the glue.
Hotfix vs. Non-Hotfix Rhinestones
How you create your beautiful designs depends on whether you’re using hotfix rhinestones or non-hotfix rhinestones. These two styles have different application methods and are best suited to particular surfaces and projects.
| Hotfix | Non-hotfix | |
| Type of backing | Built-in adhesive | Smooth; needs glue |
| Uses | Blankets, cushions, accessories and canvas bags, most types of home decor, heat-resistant fabrics, sweaters, jeans, T-shirts, jackets, shoes, dance costumes, and team uniforms | Any home decor, phone cases, nail art, glass or plastic objects, delicate fabrics, leather, and greeting cards |
| Tools needed | Heat press, mini iron, or hotfix wand, wax picker, transfer paper, heat transfer tape | Glue like Gem-Tac or E6000, wax picker, tweezers, sorting trays |
Non-hotfix styles are also called flatback rhinestones. Unlike hotfix rhinestones, the flatback versions have smooth backs that require separate glue to adhere to the surface. They’re excellent on smoother surfaces and heat-sensitive materials and can give your stuff the perfect shimmery touch.
Hotfix gems have a fantastic bond with clothing and other fabrics, so they’re the go-to for wearable creations. They’re also incredibly versatile. Try them out and see which type you prefer!
Both hotfix and flatback rhinestones have strong durability when used with the right materials. Flatback glue also comes in different strengths, further helping you match the glue to your project type for long-lasting sparkle.
Best DIY Projects for Hotfix Rhinestones
You've got the stones. Now what can you do with them? Plenty! Hotfix rhinestones and DIY projects are a perfect pairing and lead to many unique, creative ideas:
- Add small stones to your jacket cuffs for subtle sparkle.
- Create a custom monogram for a sweatshirt or denim jacket.
- Embellish your handbags with delicate hearts or swirling constellations.
- Add sparkle to your shoes with all-over designs that catch the light as you move.
- Bling out your picture frames or full-length mirror in multi-hued rhinestone borders.
- Add your initials to your favorite beach tote bag.
- Elevate a library book bag with rhinestone-bedazzled book titles.
- Get glittering with flower and leaf designs on a dance costume.
- Enhance tissue box covers with fun patterns or words of inspiration.
- Create eye-catching shimmer with gem-embellished makeup bags.
Pro Tip: You can make your designs with loose rhinestones, hotfix transfers, rhinestone sheets, or any combination you want.
The best fabrics for hotfix projects can handle plenty of direct heat on the fibers. The top fabrics include:
- Cotton
- Canvas
- Polyester
- Spandex
- Cotton blends
- Polyester blends
- Denim
You can also use certain fabrics like crepe, satin, and tulle, but stick to the hotfix wand instead of the heat press for more delicate materials.
Tools You Need To Apply Hotfix Rhinestones
Hotfix applicator wands are the most essential tool you’ll need for securing hotfix stones. Wands resemble a screwdriver and come with several removable tips of increasing size. They’re also electric and typically heat up in five minutes or less.
A hotfix heat press looks a bit like a panini press and is a professional-level option excellent for clothing, costumes, and other textiles. Most fabrics need the press set to 325°F or 330°F. For thinner, more delicate fabrics or surfaces, turn the temperature down to 310°F or 315°F.
You can also use a mini iron for more targeted heat. Like with a heat press, you’ll need heat transfer paper to help protect the fabric and stones.
Rhinestone picker pens, also called wax pickers, help you place loose rhinestones into your custom design or move them around until you’re satisfied. They’re also super useful for quickly checking for edges that haven’t fully adhered.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
Before starting your DIY project, make sure the surface is clean. Don’t worry; it doesn’t take long. You should de-lint the fabric and wipe away any dust or debris on decor pieces.
You’ll also want to test your heat settings on scrap material before applying heat to the real thing. Too hot? Simply turn down the heat. If needed, you can always reapply the heat for an additional five seconds.
The best results come from using firm, consistent pressure. For hotfix wands, keep the tool fully upright to help the heat generate an even bond across the surface.
Finally, make sure to store your unused rhinestones in secure containers far from the heat. This ensures the adhesive remains intact and unblemished. It also protects the gem’s glittery surface for optimal shine.
Embellish Your Next DIY Project With Hotfix Rhinestones
Hotfix rhinestones come in many sizes and colors, and their handy adhesive backing makes them easy and quick to use. To hot fix stones to your design, grab the correct tools, work with the right materials, and carefully plan your custom creation before applying heat. You can find all the stones you need, plus the tools and accessories, in Planet Rhinestone's high-quality rhinestone collections.
FAQs
What are hotfix rhinestones and how do they work?
Hotfix rhinestones look like non-hotfix stones on the top, but their special glue backing is designed for quicker application. The hotfix adhesive is heat-activated. When pressed with a heat tool, the glue melts and bonds the rhinestone to the material’s surface.
Are hotfix rhinestones good for DIY projects?
Yes! These glittering gems can elevate your DIY projects in no time. Not only are they beginner-friendly, but they don't require messy craft glue because the adhesive comes pre-attached. Hotfix rhinestones are perfect for customizing T-shirts, costumes, bags, shoes, jackets, jeans, or homemade gifts.
What surfaces can you use hotfix rhinestones on?
Hotfix rhinestones are versatile embellishments that work well on clothing, costumes, home decor, accessories, and more. For fabrics, they work best on cotton, canvas, denim, and blends that can tolerate heat. They might not stick well to waterproof, heavily textured, or oily materials, so be sure to clean the surface and test the fabric in an inconspicuous corner first.
Do hotfix rhinestones stay on after washing?
Yes, hotfix rhinestones stay on after washing when they are applied with the right heat and pressure for the right time. While they will have a nearly instant "stick," you should still let the adhesive fully cure for best results. Washing also needs a gentler touch, so use the gentle cycle and turn clothes inside out or put them in a mesh laundry bag.