Embellishment tools add decorative elements, such as crystals, rhinestones, beads, or sequins, to various surfaces like fabric, accessories, and home decor. It is also essential that you are using the correct tools for the job.
No matter which creative sector you are working in, whether it's prop making, costume design, beauty, fashion, jewellery making, bridal design, millinery, nail art, craft, textiles, performing arts etc, they all have something in common – there's a certain skill required to achieve the best results.
What are embellishment tools?
These tools are essential in crafting and DIY projects because they ensure precision, efficiency, durability, creativity, and safety. Tools like tweezers, wax pencils, and hotfix applicators allow for accurate placement of embellishments, leading to professional results.
They also speed up the application process, making projects quicker and less frustrating. Using the right adhesives secures your project, enhancing the longevity of finished items.
A variety of tools enable crafters to experiment with different techniques and materials to create creative possibilities. Safety equipment like ventilation masks and gloves protect crafters from harmful fumes, ensuring a safe crafting environment.
Hotfix Applicator Wand
The hotfix applicator wand is a fantastic tool for picking up and applying hotfix rhinestones to fabric without the need for glue, as the glue is already incorporated into the stone and is activated by the heat.
The term 'hotfix' refers to the method of applying the crystal, you fix it onto the surface with heat. Heat fixing can be carried out with a household iron or hotfix applicator wand.
Here are some reasons why a hotfix applicator is better than a household iron:
- Precise Control: Allows accurate placement of individual crystals without disturbing surrounding areas.
- Specialised Tips: Designed to fit various crystal sizes, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Quick Heating: Heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature.
- Reduced Risk of Damage: Minimises the risk of melting or scorching delicate materials.
- Efficiency and Reliability: More efficient and reliable for detailed embellishment work compared to a household iron.
The hotfix method is quick and there is no mess as you are not having to use glue. Once you invest in a hotfix applicator wand it can be used for future projects.
Hotfix rhinestones are suitable for most surfaces. But we wouldn't recommend using them on glass or plastic due to the heat from the applicator. They are used on fabrics that need to be embellished in bulk, such as theatre costumes, dance dresses, or fashion wear.
How to apply hotfix rhinestones using an applicator wand
- When you know which crystal size you are working with, screw the corresponding metal tip into the applicator wand. It is important to do this before turning on the power.
- Turn on the wand, wait for it to heat to temperature and pick up the rhinestone, shiny side facing upwards. You will see the glue on the back of the stone start to bubble after a few seconds – this is how you know it's hot enough to apply.
- As soon as the bubbling starts, firmly place the rhinestone onto the desired area, press down to ensure the glue has bonded, then pull the wand away – the rhinestone will stay attached to the fabric.
Stencils, Crystal Placement Grids & Transfer Film
Transfers are a great way of crystallising something quickly, neatly and in bulk. With Hotfix Transfer Film and Preciosa or Zodiac hotfix rhinestones it is easy to design your own. You could use a stencil if you are not confident with where to place the rhinestones.
Stencils and the crystal placement grids are best used for creating intricate and repeatable designs. This ensures precision and consistency across multiple items. Stencils and transfer films are ideal for detailed patterns like logos or monograms. The Crystal Placement Grids enable you to create consistent straight of diagonal lines when applying rhinestones to costumes and accessories.
Transfer films excel at moving complete designs from one surface to another. They allow for efficient bulk transfers, maintaining the integrity and layout of the crystals. They are particularly useful for applying designs to curved or uneven surfaces.
How to apply rhinestones using transfer film
- Simply peel and fold back the top layer of sticky plastic film, lay out your rhinestone design on the paper backing (shiny side facing upwards), then place the sticky plastic back over the top.
- Push down to ensure the rhinestones are stuck to the plastic film, then peel it off all together. You have just created your own transfer!
- Next, stick the transfer to the desired area and put a tea towel or some baking paper over the top of the transfer before ironing – this will protect it from the heat.
- Now iron over the top for a good few seconds, firmly pressing the iron down to ensure all the glue on the back of the crystals has melted. Peel away the plastic and you're all done!
Pre-made transfers are also available to purchase if you are struggling to come up with your own design. Or we can do it for you - check out our Bespoke Transfer Service for more details. You can also use them for company/business names, logos, hen party outfits and many other occasions.
Crystal Katana
Crystal Katana is a trademarked brand name. The Crystal Katana is an embellishment tool designed for picking up and placing things like crystals, rhinestones, and beads, with precision. It is well-known in the crafting and DIY community for its effectiveness and ease of use. Kellie DeFries, also known as the Crystal Ninja developed this pick me up tool.
If you are in any other profession where you need to apply rhinestones, then the Crystal Katana is the tool for you.
If you are a nail artist, crafter, costume maker, cake artist or in any other profession where you regularly need to apply rhinestones, then the Crystal Katana is the tool for you.
Key features
- Precision Pick-Up: The wax tip allows for easy picking up of small embellishments.
- Dual-Ended Design: One end features the wax tip for picking up small items, while the other end has a metal tip for precise placement and adjustment.
- Ergonomic Handle: The tool has an ergonomic handle to reduce hand fatigue.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
- Versatility: Suitable for various surfaces and materials, making it ideal for a wide range of crafting and DIY projects.
- Easy to Use: Simplifies the process of placing small materials.
Other Rhinestone Pickers
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to the Crystal Katana, there are a number of options: Tanto pick up tool, jewel setter or the wax pencil. All of these carry out the same job but are not as durable or reliable. However they are a good, cost-effective option for a one off embellishing project.
Hot Melt Glue Gun
A hot glue gun is an essential tool in the embellishment hobby for its versatility. It can bond a wide range of materials, including fabric, plastic, metal, and wood.
With this, the glue sets rapidly, allowing for faster project completion. The hot glue bond stays attached even with frequent handling and wear.
The precision application of a hot glue gun is another key advantage. The narrow nozzle allows for precise placement of glue, making it easier to apply adhesive exactly where needed, even on small or intricate designs. Hot glue guns are straightforward to operate. It has a trigger mechanism that provides controlled glue flow.
They are also lightweight and portable, allowing for easy use in different workspaces. Furthermore, glue sticks are affordable and widely available. It is a cost-effective choice for embellishment projects.
How to use a hot melt glue gun
- Load the mini glue gun with a glue stick.
- Plug into an electric socket and turn the power on to begin heating your glue gun.
- Allow to heat up for approximately five minutes before using your glue gun.
- We recommend that you check the tool is hot enough by gently squeezing the trigger on the hot melt glue gun to see if the hot glue starts to flow easily from the nozzle, if it doesn't, allow it to heat up for another minute or two and also check you have inserted your glue stick correctly.
Rivet Machine
Rivets are a great way to apply rhinestones to fabric if you have the correct tools – you would need a fly press or manual rivet press. So, this method is mainly used in the fashion and costume industry as they produce clothing in bulk. The rivets can be used on most fabrics but is particularly common on leather belts, handbags and shoes etc.
How to apply rhinestones using a rivet machine
- Gather rhinestones with rivet backs, a rivet machine with appropriate die sets, and a marker or fabric pencil.
- Install the die set in the rivet machine according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring the machine is stable.
- Lay out your fabric or item and mark the spots for the rhinestones. Place a rhinestone on a marked spot, aligning the rivet back correctly.
- Position the fabric with the rhinestone in the rivet machine and press the handle to secure it by crimping the rivet back.
When using a riveting tool, always prioritise safety. Wear protective eyewear to guard against flying debris. Use gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and pinching. Ensure the tool is securely clamped or held in place to prevent slipping during operation. Keep your work area well-lit and free of clutter to avoid accidents. Lastly, follow the manufacturer's instructions for setup and use to ensure the tool operates correctly and safely.
Applicator Syringe & Tip
An applicator syringe and tip are essential rhinestone tools for precise application of adhesives. The syringe allows for controlled dispensing of glue, ensuring you can apply the exact amount needed without excess mess.
The interchangeable tips come in various sizes. Choose the appropriate one for detailed work or broader coverage.
This precision is especially useful when working with small materials like crystals or rhinestones.
Using a syringe and tip helps minimise waste and improve the neatness and professional appearance of your projects.
This handy glue applicator syringe is a fantastic, inexpensive tool which enables you to apply glue in tiny amounts. Applying glue in this way allows you to be neat, accurate and avoids wastage – the beauty of the syringe is that you can squeeze any residual glue back into the bottle, or keep it in there for the following day.
How to use a syringe applicator & tip
- First remove the plunger part, and pour about 2 cm worth of glue into the syringe.
- Then insert the plunger and squeeze out any air bubbles that may be trapped inside.
- Next, screw on the tip. You can choose the tip size depending on how big the rhinestones are that you're using.
- Gently squeeze out tiny dots of glue onto the surface. It may be helpful to have practice on a spare bit of paper or fabric first. This will give you an idea of how much pressure to apply.
- Leave the glue dots to get tacky for a few seconds before adding the rhinestones.
Flipper Tray
A flipper tray is a specialised tool used in crafting and jewellery making to sort and handle small items. It features a ridged surface that helps to separate and organise small components.
These are particularly useful for keeping workspaces tidy and for quickly finding the exact piece you need.
Storage Pots
Storage pots are small containers used to organise and store tiny crafting supplies. They are typically made from clear plastic, allowing for easy visibility of the contents
What can I keep in my storage pots?
You can keep a variety of small crafting supplies in your storage pots, including but not limited to:
- Beads: Different sizes, shapes, and colours for jewellery making or embellishment.
- Rhinestones: Loose rhinestones of various sizes and types, including flat-back and pointed-back.
- Sequins: Assorted colours and shapes for adding sparkle to projects.
- Glitter: Fine and chunky glitters for adding shimmer to crafts.
- Crystals: Small crystals for embellishing clothing, accessories, and home decor items.
- Buttons: Decorative and functional buttons for sewing or crafting.
- Needles and Pins: Sewing needles, safety pins, and other small tools.
- Charms: Small decorative charms for jewellery making or scrapbooking.
- Findings: Jewellery findings like jump rings, clasps, and earring hooks.
- Embellishments: Tiny materials such as cabochons, resin pieces, and metal accents.
- Brads and Eyelets: For paper crafting and scrapbooking.
- Tiny Hardware: Small screws, pick me up pen, and other hardware for crafting projects.
Dolly Board
A dolly board is a sturdy, flat board used as a work surface for various crafting and DIY projects. It provides a stable and protective surface for cutting, glueing, and assembling materials.
The board is designed to withstand the pressure and wear from tools and materials. It is ideal for detailed work like embellishment, sewing, and other crafts.
Using a dolly board helps protect your main work table from damage. With it, you have a reliable surface to work on, improving the accuracy and quality of your projects.
The Dolly Boards are available in various sizes from small to the larger Queenz boards suitable for the hourglass figure.
Wrapping up
Embellishment tools offer numerous benefits for crafting and DIY projects. These tools ensure precision and accuracy whether you're working with rhinestones, beads, or other decorative elements.
They enhance efficiency and make your crafting experience more enjoyable. They also open up a world of creative possibilities, enabling you to experiment with different techniques and materials.
We encourage you to experiment and get creative with your projects. Don't be afraid to try new tools and techniques to discover what works best for you. Embrace the versatility of these tools to bring your unique vision to life, whether you're enhancing clothing, accessories, or home decor items.
For those looking to improve their accuracy and achieve straight lines in their designs, we highly recommend trying crystal placement grids. This is an excellent tool for picking up rhinestones and ensuring even placement and maintaining alignment. Give them a try and see how they can elevate your crafting skills!