How to apply rhinestones

I thought it would be helpful to know how to adhere rhinestones so here are a few ways. Find the application method that you like best.

Hot-fix Rhinestones – this type of rhinestone comes with heat activated glue already on the back of them. You apply them with the use of a hot affix wand. Here is a link to one (https://www.etsy.com/listing/292750845/hotfix-stone-applicator-240v-with-7-tips?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=hotfix+wand&ref=sr_gallery-1-1) Please note that I am not necessarily recommending this one but I did want to provide an example. You pick up the rhinestone with the wand, allow the glue to liquefy and then place it on your garment.

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Glue on – the rhinestones requires the use of a glue such as Gem Tac,E-6000, etc. I have listed these two types of glues because they are what I use. Whatever type of glue you use keep in mind it must be suitable to be used for both rhinestones and the fabric. You will place dots of glue on (no larger then the rhinestone you are using) onto the garment. Use a pick stick (stick with beeswax on end) to pick up the rhinestone and place on the glue dot. The glue dot is stronger than the beeswax and grabs the stone. Here is a Recommended video to show you how it's done: You Tube- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CVLWC8K0IE

Hand Sew- Many rhinestones have holes in them so they can be sewn. These type of rhinestones typically are larger (12mm or larger). I like to apply a small dot of E6000 glue to the rhinestone and place it. Let it dry and then double thread my sewing needle (this is the help ensure a strong bond) and hand sew the rhinestone in place. By gluing and hand sewing it with help ensure that the larger rhinestones will remain on the garment for a long time.

Rim sets and Tiffany sets – They both have a metal prongs that wrap around the rhinestone. I would recommend lightly applying glue to the flat backs and placing them where you would like then, then go back and apply the "sets." Both versions are applied with a Bedazzler, hand press, or foot press machine.

Rim sets- consist of a ring of metal which covers edge of stone it is pressed through the fabric and over the stone. The prongs fold back over the back of rhinestone.

Tiffany sets- are similar except the metal part goes from the underside of the fabric, up around the stone and is crimped against the stone. Note that these sets can easily snag your fabric if placed in area like under the arms where it rubs.