Iron-On Appliques
Turning your creative projects into glittering masterpieces has never been easier! Get creative with rhinestone appliques that add instant sparkle. Full of eye-catching color, these hotfix appliques from Planet Rhinestone elevate any project into a dazzling design you can’t wait to show off.
Iron-On Appliques: Sparkle Made Simple
All of Planet Rhinestone’s iron-on appliques have heat-activated backing. That means no sewing required! Our high-quality designs let you create unique, one-of-a-kind looks for yourself or your clients, even without expert skills. All you need is a suitable surface and some heat.
Not sure what to customize? The possibilities are endless. Bedazzle prom gowns, party dresses, dance costumes, jackets, or hoodies. Add sparkle to tote bags, shoes, home decor, and more!
Each Planet Rhinestone piece features hotfix-style rhinestones built into the design, making it durable and easy to apply. Iron-on appliques also work with a variety of heating tools, from standard irons to mini and desktop heat presses, so you can choose the method that fits your workspace.
Most of our appliques are designed to affix with 330°F heat for about 20 seconds, but always double-check your specific product instructions first! If the glue hasn't fully bonded to the fibers, you can add a few extra seconds for a perfect finish.
Design Variety & Application Options
Find everything from rhinestone numbers and chenille letters to logos, jeweled crosses, and full-pattern motifs. At Planet Rhinestone, we bring all the sparkle you could want, with dozens of gorgeous designs ready to bring your creative projects to life.
We’re also big on variety. That’s why we offer multiple sizes to match your creativity. You can add subtle shine with 2- to 3-inch pieces or go bold with appliques measuring 9 to 12+ inches. We also accommodate custom-cut rhinestone appliques, so you can get the perfect size for any DIY project.
Bedazzling is simple and fun! Elevate favorite hoodies and accessories with embroidered patches and hotfix transfer appliques that look gorgeous in any light.
Our collections feature a wide range of colors, categories, and finishes, including crystal, glass beads, AB (aurora borealis), and metallic options. For added durability, some appliques are designed to be both ironed-on and sewn-on, giving you extra security for long-lasting designs.
FAQs
What temperature and time should I use to fuse an iron-on applique?
Most hotfix rhinestone appliques recommend heat settings around 330°F for no more than 20 seconds. If you’re working with thinner fabrics, use a cooler setting around 310°F to 315°F to protect the material while still achieving dazzling results.
Pro tip: When pushing down and applying heat, 20 seconds might be too much for tiny rhinestone appliques. Start at 5 to 10 seconds and add more time if the hotfix glue isn’t firmly attached. Whichever size and design you’re applying, double-check that all sections are secure. Apply more heat to any edges that lift or sections that slide.
Can I sew an iron-on applique after heat pressing?
Of course! Many rhinestone appliques work with both heat activation and sewing. If you like your designs to be extra durable, iron first and then sew the edges to keep your design in place, no matter how much you move.
Among other creatives, dancers and dance costume designers are sure to love this dual-application approach. A secure, stay-in-place fit means you’ll sparkle in all the right ways. That’s why we recommend using both applications for stretchy dance costumes and other stretch fabrics designed to move with you.
What fabrics are suitable for iron-on application?
Sturdy fabrics like cotton, canvas, denim, and cotton blends work best for iron-on appliques. These materials handle higher heat settings, typically around 325°F to 330°F, without damage and maintain their structure beautifully.
For projects that use stretchy fabrics, like dance costumes, you can still apply iron-on appliques, just lower the temperature and test on a small patch first to ensure a secure and lasting bond.
Pro tip: Avoid heat-sensitive fabrics that can melt, such as vinyl without backing. For delicate materials like silk or satin, use a lower heat setting and protect the fabric by covering it with a cloth or heat transfer paper before pressing.
Will the adhesive degrade with washing?
Not if you care for it properly. To keep the adhesive securely attached to your clothing, hats, or costumes, use cool water and gentle washing methods. Hand-washing in a small tub is the best way to keep rhinestone designs in place and at their shimmering best.
If you prefer machine-washing, place the clothing in a mesh laundry bag first. This protects against snags that can scratch the rhinestones or pull at the hotfix applique's edges. Always use cold water and a gentle cycle, turning garments inside out. After washing, hang or lay flat to dry, as dryer heat can be too hard and may damage the adhesive or stones.
Can iron-on appliques be removed or repositioned?
Generally, no. Think of it as a permanent piece of rhinestone artwork! Once the adhesive activates and cools, it “cures” like other glues and strongly fuses with the fabric. That’s why you should double-check the positioning before applying heat to the hotfix glue.
In some cases, you might soften the adhesive with heat and carefully lift the applique, but this carries a high risk of damaging both the fabric and the design. We don't recommend it!
To ensure perfect placement, take a few photos of the applique on your fabric first. Review them with a designer's eye before committing to heat, so your project stays secure and sparkling.
Do you offer custom sizes or designs not shown?
We do! Planet Rhinestone can often accommodate custom requests for items of different sizes and colors. We also work with custom orders for different motifs and patterns.
To get started, reach out to our custom order support team and include your design along with any specific requests, ideas, or preferences. We'll get to work on a digital file and mock-up for your approval! Once approved, we craft a stunning, one-of-a-kind rhinestone transfer designed just for your project.