How to Decorate Your Clothing: Tips and Ideas by using accessories
Step 1: Design and Plan
Sketch your design on paper first. Decide on the pattern, color scheme, and stone sizes. A common technique is to use larger stones for the center of a flower or focal point and smaller ones for the petals and fill.
Step 2: Prepare the Fabric
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WASH THE FABRIC FIRST. Oils, dirt, and sizing can prevent adhesive from bonding properly.
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Ensure the garment is completely dry and wrinkle-free. Iron if necessary.
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Place a piece of cardboard or a Teflon sheet inside the garment to prevent glue from bleeding through to the other side.
Step 3: Transfer the Design
Lightly draw your design onto the fabric using your washable marker. Be precise.
Step 4: Apply the Stones
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For Hotfix:
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Plug in your applicator wand and let it heat up.
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Place a stone (glue-side down) directly onto its spot on your design.
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Press the hot tip of the wand firmly onto the stone for 2-4 seconds. Do not move the wand around.
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Lift the wand straight up. Let the stone cool for a few seconds before touching it.
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For Glue (Flatback):
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Apply a tiny dot of glue to the fabric (or to the back of the stone).
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Use your tweezers or wax pencil to place the stone precisely.
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Press down gently to secure it. Let the glue cure fully (according to the bottle's instructions, usually 24-72 hours) before wearing or washing.
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Step 5: Curing and Setting
Once all stones are placed, let the garment sit flat for at least 24 hours to allow the adhesives to reach full strength. This is a critical step for durability.
Washing and Care Instructions
Rhinestoned garments require special care to keep them sparkling.
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Hand Wash in cool water with a mild detergent.
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Turn the garment inside out.
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Do not soak for long periods.
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Do not wring or twist the fabric.
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Lay flat on a towel to dry. Never put a rhinestoned garment in the dryer.
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For storage, lay it flat or hang it without folding over the stoned areas to prevent snagging and stones popping off.
