Thread: Hotfixing and powermesh

I've got a flesh coloured midriff I want to make all sparkly and stuff. Does anyone have any experience of this? I'm not sure if the gems would hotfix well to the mesh, or affect the stretch, is there a trick?

Originally Posted by Kash13

I've got a flesh coloured midriff I want to make all sparkly and stuff. Does anyone have any experience of this? I'm not sure if the gems would hotfix well to the mesh, or affect the stretch, is there a trick?

Even though hot fix is designed for lycra and such, I have seen it fail under alot of pressure. I use plexi glue, Jones Tones do a stretch glue that will move with the fabric, it is safe for stones (I've used it with much success). Another way is to use the plexi glue like a pen, draw a design and sprinkle ultra fine glitter on it, leave it overnight and when it is dry you can brush the excess of and the effect is amazing. It is also washable!

Hope this helps!

Funnily enough, I've just done a test on hotfix vs. glue on powermesh and lycra.
(I bought a fancy new hotfix applicator at the Quilting and Craft show, and just had to have a bit of a play)
I found that the glue felt a lot more stable on application, but I'm going to do a wash test on them as well, to see how they stand up. I can report back on how I go, if you like?
Probably the only tip I have, for either glue or hotfix, is to have the fabric under a little tension while you are applying the stones.
If you are worried about it, do a test sample yourself.

I haven't done it myself, but I was under the impression that skating and ballroom costumes with rhinestones on illusion and other stretch meshes use a hotfix application, because it's usually less messy than cold gluing. There is a point where hot glue can melt synthetic fabric, but I assume if you are using the right tools, that shouldn't be a problem.

Just going on my general crafting experience, wash the garment, make sure it is rinsed clean, and don't use any softeners or after-wash products so the fabric is as "naked" as possible. For a cold-set method, most crafters suggest a glue formulated for garment embellishments (e.g., Gem-Tac, Aleene's Glitter & Gem Glue) with stones that do not already have adhesive on the back. Make a dot of glue that will be just barely big enough for the stone to sink into the puddle and form a little bezel around the edges. This is supposed to be more secure than a glue spot that does not reach the edges, and it does take practice to get the amount right, so start on scraps or less conspicuous spots. (If you're having trouble controlling the glue flow, check the craft store for pinpoint accessory tips for your bottle, usually sold in the paint aisle.) You also want to make sure the glue forms a good adhesion with the fabric in conditions that approximate wear. In other words, pre-stretch the garment on a board to approximately how it will be stretched on your body, and press down enough that the glue works into the fibers. If you're using a cardboard surface, put a clean garbage bag or food wrap over the board first, so you don't accidentally glue the garment to the board.

Obviously some of this advice--like prewashing, putting a layer of something between the board and the fabric (foil probably works better than plastic wrap for hotfix, since you don't want to melt Saran Wrap to the back of the stones either), and pressing down hard enough to get good attachment--will apply regardless of the method. Follow the aftercare/laundering instructions for whatever products you use, and you should be good to go.

Thanks for that, I shall give it a go. My post c-sec tummy is really not ready to see the world, but a bit of mesh and camoflage might just to it ;)

Personally, I don't find the hotfix glue (on the back of the crystals) is sturdy enough, and it doesn't always resist washing. I am currently much happier using plain rhinestones & glueing them on with Gem-tac, which seems to be a *lot* more resilient.

E6000 is awesome. I always wear a mask and insure I am near an open window. Fumes are nasty but it works.