Which Method is Best?


Which Application Method is Best for You?

The secret to long‑lasting sparkle is pairing your project and fabric with the right method. Use this guide to choose between sew‑on, non‑hotfix (glue‑on), and hotfix rhinestones.

Quick overview

  • Sew‑On Stones → Best for high‑movement garments, stretch fabrics, or large/heavy stones. Maximum durability.
  • Non‑Hotfix (Glue‑On) → Works on almost any surface (fabric, glass, plastic, wood). Ideal when heat or sewing isn’t possible; great for custom, precise detailing.
  • Hotfix → Fast and clean on porous, heat‑safe fabrics (cotton/poly/denim), especially for transfers, logos, and repeating patterns.
Compare at a glance — pick the method that fits your fabric, speed & durability needs
Sew‑On

Best for: high‑movement, stretch, large/heavy stones

Surfaces: stitchable textiles

Speed: slow (hand sewing)

Durability: maximum (wash & stretch safe)

Tools: needle & strong thread

Stone size: ideal for large/heavy

Non‑Hotfix (Glue‑On)

Best for: fabric + hard surfaces; custom detailing; heat‑sensitive items

Surfaces: textiles, glass, plastic, wood, metal, paper

Speed: moderate (apply + cure)

Durability: high with E6000 on suitable items

Tools: E6000 / LS White Glue, picker, trays

Stone size: small–medium (large okay on hard items)

Hotfix

Best for: cotton/poly/denim; transfers, logos, repeating patterns

Surfaces: porous, heat‑safe textiles

Speed: fast (especially with heat‑press transfers)

Durability: high on correct fabrics

Tools: applicator wand / iron / heat press

Stone size: small–medium; large via transfers

How to choose (step‑by‑step)

  1. What material are you decorating?
    • Non‑fabric (glass, plastic, wood, metal, paper) → Non‑Hotfix (Glue‑On)
    • Fabric that can’t take heat (vinyl, silk, leather) → Sew‑On or Non‑Hotfix
    • Cotton, polyester, denim, canvas → Hotfix is fastest/cleanest
  2. How much stress/wear will it see?
    • High stretch, frequent wash, stage/dance → Sew‑On
    • Light–moderate wear → Hotfix or Non‑Hotfix
  3. Stone size & precision
    • Large/heavy stones → Sew‑On
    • Detailed custom layouts → Non‑Hotfix (precision placement)
    • Repeating logos/patterns → Hotfix transfers
  4. Speed & workflow
    • Fast/bulk runs → Hotfix (heat press + transfers)
    • Artisanal, one‑off pieces → Sew‑On or Non‑Hotfix

Method mini‑summaries

Sew‑On Stones — maximum security

Stitched through pre‑drilled holes; perfect for stretch, heavy movement, and large stones. Clean, professional finish and excellent washability.

Use for: dancewear, gymnastics, couture, bridal, statement pieces.

Read the Sew‑On Guide

Non‑Hotfix (Glue‑On) — ultimate versatility

Flatbacks applied with E6000 or LS White Rhinestone Glue. Works on almost any surface; great for custom placements and special materials.

Use for: accessories, shoes, hard surfaces, delicate fabrics, detailed layouts.

Read the Glue‑On Guide

Hotfix — fast, clean, production‑friendly

Heat‑activated glue on the stone back bonds into cotton/poly/denim. Ideal for transfers, logos, and repeating designs where speed matters.

Use with: applicator wand, iron, or heat press (correct temperature & pressure).

Read the Hotfix Guide

Still unsure? We’ll match the method to your fabric & design in 1–2 messages.