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

When it comes to applying hot-fix rhinestones, there are two main types of applicator wands available. Both use heat to activate the glue on the back of rhinestones, but they differ in how the crystals are picked up and placed.

 

🛒 Vacuum Suction Applicator Wand Heat Gun for Hot fix Hotfix Rhinestone

🛒 Standard 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.

✨ Tip: The vacuum suction model speeds up large projects, while the standard wand is cost-effective and precise for small or detailed designs. Both deliver secure, professional results when used correctly.

[More Information]

→   Watch video1   →   Watch video2 

 

→   Watch Video

 

💎 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 ➜]

 

🛒 Vacuum Suction Applicator Wand Heat Gun for Hot fix Hotfix Rhinestone

🛒 Standard 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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