Online store supplying Swarovski crystals with both hotfix and non hotfix flatback crystals, applicators and adhesive. Large range of sizes with everything from ss5 for nail art up to ss48 which are perfect embellishments for dance costumes. Site blog offers advice for selecting the right size crystals and tutorials on how to apply them along with other useful advice and tutorials. Rhinestone Crafty Tip
When applying rhinestones its not only important to choose the right kind of rhinestones, but you may also need to prepare the surface before adding them.
When applying crystals to fabric make sure the material is ironed first to flatten it out before adding crystals. If you are creating complex designs with hotfix rhinestones, its sometimes easier to lay out the crystal designs onto the fabric and then use a steam iron to melt the adhesive and set them into place permanently. If applying crystals to a smooth surface like plastic, it needs to be roughed up to provide a better bonding surface. You can use a fine grit sandpaper or emery cloth to achieve this, then remove any dust and wipe over the surface with a degreasing agent such as an alcohol wipe, which also dries quickly. Hotfix rhinestones are perfect for applying to fabric or card/paper. Non - Hotfix crystals can be attached to just about anything with the correct adhesive. When applying them to fabric or paper/card Gemtac is the best adhesive which is strong washable and non toxic. To apply non - hotfix crystals to plastic, glass or metal e6000 provides a stronger bond than gemtac as its an industrial strength glue, the downside is that it has very strong fumes so care needs to be taken to ventilate the fumes, so that they are not inhaled.
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