Hotfix-Strasssteine

FAQS

Hotfix rhinestones, sometimes called iron on rhinestones, are flat backed stones with glue already built into the foil backing. Heat melts the glue, so you apply them with a hotfix tool, an iron or a heat press rather than gluing them by hand. That's the difference between hotfix and non hotfix rhinestones.

You can use a hotfix applicator tool, a household iron or a heat press. An applicator does one stone at a time, which is precise but slow over a large design. An iron or heat press lets you fix a lot of stones in one go. Whichever you use, press firmly, keep the iron still, and turn the steam off. Our guide to embellishing with hotfix crystals walks through the whole process.

Around 10 to 15 seconds of heat for most stones. Small sizes like SS6 and SS8 need a little less, and larger stones from SS40 upwards can take up to 20 seconds. Apply even pressure the whole time and let the piece cool fully before you touch the stones.

Yes, if applied correctly and given the proper aftercare, hotfix crystals can be fixed permanently.

Yes. Applied properly and looked after, hotfix crystals stay put permanently. Most stones that come loose either didn't get enough heat, went onto fabric with dust or fluff on it, or have been through a hot wash with fabric conditioner.

It depends on the job. Hotfix is quicker, neater and more durable for large areas, and you don't need to buy glue. Non hotfix works better on anything you can't put heat near, like heat-sensitive synthetics, shoes and non fabric surfaces, and it usually costs less per stone. Worth knowing that fine fabrics like organza, net and silk are actually better with hotfix, because fabric glue tends to seep through them.

Yes, a standard household iron works well as long as you turn the steam setting off. Lay a sheet of baking parchment over the stones first to protect them, press down firmly without moving the iron, and let everything cool before you check.

Yes. Hand wash, or use a cool gentle cycle in the machine. Turn the garment inside out and skip the fabric conditioner, because it works its way under the stones and loosens the glue.

You can, by carefully lifting the stone away from the fabric with a sharp tool. Be aware it often leaves some glue residue behind, and occasionally the foil backing stays stuck to the fabric.

Anything that can take the heat and has a smooth surface. Cotton, denim, lycra, polyester, velvet and most dancewear fabrics all work well. Avoid anything that scorches easily, and always test on a scrap or a hidden seam first.