How To Seal Glitter On Fabric: A Complete Guide
Adding sparkly accents to your fabrics and crafts projects can take them to the next level. But unsealed glitter sheds easily and makes a mess. If you want your glittery creations to last, you need to properly seal the glitter to the fabric.
This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about sealing glitter on fabric.
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: Use a spray adhesive like Super 77 or a fabric glue like Gem-Tac before applying the glitter. Once dry, seal it again with a sealant like Mod Podge or Krylon’s Clear Acrylic Coating. This seals both sides and minimizes shedding and fallout.
In this detailed tutorial, we’ll cover the best adhesives and sealants for glitter, tips for applying them successfully, and precautions for safe use. We’ll also provide step-by-step instructions with photos to walk you through the glitter sealing process from start to finish.
Let’s add some sparkle to your life!
Choosing the Right Glitter Adhesive
When it comes to sealing glitter on fabric, choosing the right glitter adhesive is crucial. The adhesive you choose will determine how well the glitter adheres to the fabric and how long it will last. There are a few different options to consider, including spray adhesives and liquid glue.
Spray Adhesives
Spray adhesives are a popular choice for sealing glitter on fabric due to their ease of use and even application. They come in aerosol cans and can be sprayed directly onto the fabric, providing a thin and consistent layer of adhesive.
Spray adhesives are great for large areas or when you want to cover a fabric surface with a lot of glitter.
One highly recommended spray adhesive for sealing glitter on fabric is the 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Adhesive. This adhesive is known for its strong bond, quick drying time, and compatibility with various materials.
When using a spray adhesive, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and protect surrounding surfaces from overspray. Hold the can about 8-12 inches away from the fabric and spray in a smooth, sweeping motion for an even coverage.
Allow the adhesive to dry completely before applying the glitter.
Liquid Glue
Liquid glue is another option for sealing glitter on fabric. It is typically applied with a brush or sponge, allowing for more precise application. Liquid glue is ideal for smaller, detailed designs or when you want to control the placement of the glitter more precisely.
One popular liquid glue for sealing glitter on fabric is the Aleene’s Original Tacky Glue. It is known for its strong bond, flexibility, and washability.
When using liquid glue, apply a thin, even layer onto the fabric using a brush or sponge. Avoid applying too much glue, as it can cause the fabric to become stiff and affect the overall flexibility of the garment.
Once the glue is applied, sprinkle the glitter over the glued area and gently press it down. Allow the glue to dry completely before shaking off any excess glitter.
Regardless of the adhesive you choose, it’s important to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the entire surface. This will help you ensure that the adhesive is compatible with the fabric and that it provides the desired results.
Remember to store your glitter-adorned fabric items carefully to prevent the glitter from rubbing off. Handwashing or using a gentle cycle on your washing machine can help prolong the life of your glittered fabric.
Applying the Glue
When it comes to sealing glitter on fabric, applying the glue properly is crucial. Here are three important steps to ensure a successful application:
Prep the Fabric
Before applying the glue, it’s important to prepare the fabric properly. Start by cleaning the fabric to remove any dirt or debris that may interfere with the adhesion of the glue. A gentle wash with mild detergent should do the trick.
Make sure to let the fabric dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Apply Evenly
When applying the glue, it’s important to achieve an even and consistent layer. This will help ensure that the glitter adheres properly and doesn’t clump or flake off. One popular method is to use a foam brush or a sponge brush to apply the glue. This allows for smooth and controlled application.
Start by applying a thin layer of glue and then build up if needed. Make sure to cover the entire surface evenly, paying attention to any intricate details or edges.
Let Dry Completely
After applying the glue, it’s crucial to allow it to dry completely before moving or touching the fabric. This will ensure that the glitter adheres securely and won’t smudge or come off easily. The drying time can vary depending on the type of glue used, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
As a general guideline, allowing the fabric to dry overnight is recommended.
Remember, applying the glue properly is just the first step in sealing glitter on fabric. It’s also important to choose the right type of glitter and sealant to ensure a long-lasting and durable finish.
Experiment with different techniques and products to find what works best for your specific project.
Adding the Glitter
Adding glitter to fabric can instantly transform any ordinary piece into a dazzling masterpiece. Whether you’re working on a craft project or adding some sparkle to a garment, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to seal glitter on fabric.
Sprinkle Liberally
The first step is to sprinkle glitter liberally onto the fabric. Make sure to cover the desired area evenly, using as much glitter as you desire. You can use a shaker or simply sprinkle it by hand, depending on the effect you want to achieve.
Don’t worry about being too neat at this stage; we’ll tidy it up later!
Press Down
Once you’ve sprinkled the glitter onto the fabric, gently press down on it using your fingers or a clean, dry cloth. This will help the glitter adhere to the fabric and ensure it stays in place once it’s sealed.
Applying a little pressure will also help to remove any excess glitter that didn’t stick initially.
Remove Excess
After pressing down on the glitter, it’s time to remove any excess. Use a soft brush or your fingertips to gently sweep away any loose glitter that didn’t adhere to the fabric. This step is crucial to ensure a smooth and even finish.
Let Dry Again
Once you’ve removed the excess glitter, allow the fabric to dry completely. This is an important step before sealing the glitter to ensure it doesn’t smudge or move around. Depending on the type of adhesive you’re using, drying times may vary.
Check the label of your chosen adhesive for specific instructions.
Now that you’ve successfully added glitter to your fabric, it’s time to move on to the next step: sealing it to ensure it stays in place. Stay tuned for the next part of our complete guide on how to seal glitter on fabric!
Sealing the Glitter
When it comes to adding glitter to fabric, sealing it is an essential step to ensure that the glitter stays in place and doesn’t flake off. There are a few different options for sealants that you can use to lock in the sparkle and protect your fabric.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular choices.
Sealant Options
One of the most common sealants used for glitter on fabric is fabric glue. Fabric glue is easy to use and provides a strong bond, keeping the glitter securely in place. Another option is a spray sealant specifically designed for use on fabric.
These sprays create a protective barrier over the glitter, preventing it from rubbing off or fading over time. You can also consider using a clear fabric paint as a sealant, which not only seals the glitter but also adds an extra layer of protection to your fabric.
Pro Tip: When choosing a sealant, make sure to select one that is compatible with the type of fabric you are using, as well as the type of glitter you have applied. Some sealants may not adhere well to certain fabrics or may cause the glitter to lose its shine.
Apply Sealant
Once you have selected the appropriate sealant for your project, it’s time to apply it to the glittered fabric. Start by gently brushing off any loose or excess glitter from the surface. This will ensure a smooth and even application of the sealant.
Next, follow the instructions on the sealant product for the best results. In most cases, you will either brush or spray the sealant onto the fabric. Be sure to cover the entire glittered area, working in thin, even layers.
Pro Tip: If you are using a spray sealant, make sure to do so in a well-ventilated area or outdoors to avoid inhaling any fumes. Additionally, protect the surrounding surfaces with a drop cloth or newspaper to prevent any overspray.
Allow to Fully Cure
After applying the sealant, it’s important to allow it to fully cure before using or washing the fabric. The curing time can vary depending on the type of sealant you used, so be sure to check the instructions provided.
Typically, it takes a few hours to overnight for the sealant to completely dry and set. During this time, avoid touching or disturbing the fabric to ensure a smooth and durable finish.
Pro Tip: To speed up the curing process, you can use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to gently blow-dry the sealed glitter. Just be sure to keep the dryer at a safe distance from the fabric to prevent any damage or melting.
By properly sealing the glitter on fabric, you can enjoy your sparkling creations for a long time to come. Remember to choose the right sealant, apply it carefully, and allow it to fully cure for the best results. Now, go ahead and add some shimmer to your fabric projects!
Caring for Glitter Fabrics
Glitter fabrics can add a touch of sparkle and glamour to any outfit or home decor item. However, it is important to properly care for these fabrics to ensure their longevity and maintain their shine. Here are some tips on how to care for glitter fabrics:
Hand Washing
When it comes to cleaning glitter fabrics, hand washing is often the best option. Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Gently agitate the fabric in the soapy water, being careful not to rub or scrub too vigorously.
Rinse the fabric thoroughly with cool water and gently squeeze out any excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can cause damage to the glitter. Finally, lay the fabric flat to dry, away from direct sunlight.
Dry Cleaning
If hand washing is not an option or if you are uncertain about the fabric’s washability, dry cleaning is a safe alternative. Take the glitter fabric to a professional dry cleaner who has experience with delicate fabrics.
Inform them about the glitter on the fabric so they can take appropriate precautions during the cleaning process. Dry cleaning will help to preserve the glitter and prevent any damage that could occur with improper washing.
Storing Properly
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the sparkle of glitter fabrics. Avoid folding or creasing the fabric, as this can cause the glitter to crack or flake off. Instead, store the fabric flat or roll it up loosely.
If possible, place the fabric in a garment bag or a sealed container to protect it from dust and moisture. Store the fabric in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
By following these care instructions, you can ensure that your glitter fabrics retain their shine and beauty for years to come. Remember to always read and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for your specific glitter fabric, as some fabrics may have additional care requirements.
Conclusion
With the right adhesive and sealant combo, you can create dazzling glitter crafts that will shine on for years to come. Just take care to prep the fabric, apply the products evenly, and allow ample drying time between steps. Glitter projects require patience but deliver eye-catching results.
Now that you know the secrets of sealing glitter properly, you can add gorgeous glitz to any fabric item.
For more crafty tips and project inspiration, be sure to check out the rest of the site. Happy glittering!
