Glue vs. Heat Gun: Which Rhinestone Application Method Should You Use?

Glue vs. Heat Gun: Which Rhinestone Application Method Should You Use?

💎Choose the Right Method for Your Project

Whether you're decorating dancewear, crafting collectibles, or customizing costumes, there are two popular methods to apply rhinestones:

✅ Glue Method

✅ Heat Gun / Hotfix Method

Each has its pros, cons, and best-fit surfaces. Here's everything you need to know:

 

🟣 Glue Method (Cold Adhesive Application)

🛒 E6000 Industrial Craft Glue Clear Adhesive for Rhinestone

🔧 How It Works:

Apply a small amount of glue (e.g.  E6000) to the back of the rhinestone using a tweezer or wax pencil, then press it onto the surface. Let it dry fully.

 

💎 Works With:

 

🔍 Note: Hotfix stones also work perfectly with glue — especially when used on hard surfaces like plastic, where heat application isn’t ideal.

✔ Advantages:

  • Great for non-fabric surfaces

  • Easy to adjust placement before glue dries

  • No machine/tools required

  • Works with both hotfix and flatback rhinestones

✘ Limitations:

  • Longer drying time

  • Messy if overapplied

  • Slower for large-scale fabric use

📌 Best Used For:

  • Plastic collectibles (like Labubu, POP MART toys)

  • Phone cases, notebooks, shoes, nails

  • Accessories and small-batch DIY crafts

  • Beginners & general crafters


🔴 Heat Gun / Hotfix Method

🛒 Applicator Wand Heat Gun for Hot fix Hotfix Rhinestone

🔧 How It Works:

Hotfix rhinestones have glue pre-applied on their backs. When heat is applied with a hotfix applicator or mini heat press, the glue melts and bonds to the fabric.

[More Information]

💎 Works With:

✔ Advantages:

  • Strong, durable hold on fabric

  • Instant bond – no drying time

  • Faster and cleaner for bulk application

  • Ideal for professional or performance wear

✘ Limitations:

  • Only works with hotfix stones

  • Not suitable for plastic or hard surfaces

  • Requires heat applicator tool

📌 Best Used For:

  • Dancewear & performance costumes

  • Team uniforms, cheer outfits

  • Lycra, stretch mesh, cotton, tulle

  • Bulk orders or high-volume studio work


💡 Pro Tip from Avant Crystal:

If you're working on fabric, using a heat applicator or mini press will save you hours – especially for dance schools, team uniforms, or costume production.
It bonds instantly, holds longer, and increases your efficiency by 2–3x compared to glue.

 

🛍️ RECOMMENDED BY AVANT CRYSTAL:

🔹 [Shop Hotfix Rhinestones ➜]

→ Glower® Hotfix Rhinestone
→ Stellux™ Austrian Crystal Flat Back Hotfix
→ Swarovski® Crystal Flat Back Hotfix
→ Standard DMC (Low Grade)

 

🔹 [Get Your Hotfix Applicator ➜]

🛒 Applicator Wand Heat Gun for Hot fix Hotfix Rhinestone


🔹 [Browse Flatback Crystals ➜]

→ Glass Round Rhinestones (No Hotfix)
→ 16-Facet Premium Glass Rhinestone
→ Acrylic Round Rhinestones (No Hotfix)
→ Flat Back Half Pearl



 

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