Replies

1. 
   Cherrypops | Oct 26, 2007 01:26am | #1

   Hello Judy,

   My mum ( in Australia) uses the BEJEWELLER Hot Fix Tool. http://aroundthecorner.com.au/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=106

   I don't know the Brand Name for these overseas or what the price may be.

   Just remeber to purchase the correct crystals - they must have the glue backing. You can purchase non-stick backs then dab glue on them with a hot gun, insert crystal into the Bejeweller and away you go.

   Mum hasn't had problems with them. She uses them to embellish her machine embroidery creations.

   Regards,

   CherryPops (sydney australia)

2. 
   cafms | Oct 27, 2007 05:22am | #2

   I have applied them by placing them in the design I wanted and then covering with a press cloth and carefully setting the iron on them for a few seconds- don't remember how long.  Watch out for the holes on a steam iron.  One of the ladies in my sewing guild does it this way all the time so I gave it a try.  I found it helped to use a tweezer to place the rhinestones.

3. 
   clairezbo | Oct 28, 2007 08:55pm | #3

   I have a tool called the Lorna, it is especially for hot fixed crystals, and such. You can look at on line at Lorna.com, Not very expensive, and tons of fun. There is also an on line site called Thread Art, that you can buy the stones from. Much cheaper than buying at the local store.

4. 
   From my Stash.... | Oct 29, 2007 05:21am | #4

   There are two ways of doing this (both use the glue backed crystals).

   The first is with a hot  applicator (here in Canada, mine is by Crystal Designs). For this method, you put them crystal side up and pick them up with the tip of the applicator. Then press them onto the fabric and hold for a second, then remove the applicator.  (You could also place them crystal side up on the fabric in the position you want and then heat them with the tip.)

   The other way is to use a sticky transfer sheet (a clear film that is sticky on one side) and place the crystals glue side up on the sheet in the pattern that you want.  Then lift the sheet, and take it and the fabric to the ironing board.  Place the fabric on the board, then the fabric sticky side down on the fabric.  Cover the design with a teflon pressing sheet.  Using a medium to hot iron, apply the iron to the sheet where the crystals are. Hold for about 8 to 10 seconds (it depends on the size of the crystals).  Lift the iron and pressing cloth and then very slowly lift the transfer sheet. If a crystal starts to lift with the transfer sheet, just put them both back down and press again.

   Hope that helps and your GD should love the results.