Last Updated on September 17, 2022
If you’re wondering how to stone a figure skating dress, this article will show you how to sew on a rhinestone or sequin. It will also show you the best colors for your rhinestones and sequins, and how to choose sew-on stones that are flat-backed or “hot-fix.”
Sewing on a rhinestone or sequin
One of the most popular ways to add sparkle to a figure skating dress is to sew a rhinestone or sequine onto the dress. There are many different types of rhinestones available, but the most expensive are made by Swarovski, which is famous for producing the best sparkle. Sewing on a rhinestone or sequin is an easy and fun project for even the most novice skater.
When sewing on a rhinestone or a sequin to a figure skating dress, be sure to choose the right type of material for the job. Single-hole stones, for example, are held on with a seed bead. To stitch the sequin onto a figure skating dress, thread a needle through the seed bead and pull it through the rhinestone. Regular garment beading is done with continuous string, which can show the underside of the fabric.
Another option for sewing on a rhinestone or a sequin to a figure skating dress is to glue it on. It is not as hard as it sounds, and is an excellent option for thin or mesh fabrics. You’ll need strong eyeglasses and good lighting, and make sure you’re wearing clear containers to protect the surface from the glue.
Embroidering a figure skating dress is another popular option. Embroidery has become popular in recent years, and home sewing machines usually include embroidery capabilities. You can also download software that will help you design the finished product. Once you’ve mastered embroidery, you can begin sewing on a rhinestone or sequin to a figure skating dress.
Choosing between flat-backed or “hot-fix” rhinestones
Depending on the style of figure skating dress, a rhinestone can either be flat-backed or “hot-fix,” meaning the backing of the stone has been coated with glue. When the stones are hot, this glue melts and becomes an attachment point. A hot-fix rhinestone can be applied with a standard house-hold iron or a purpose-built Kandi Kane rhinestone applicator. The application process is the same as flat-backed rhinestones, but the glued stones are adhered directly to the fabric surface.
Choosing between flat-backed rhinestones and “hot-fix” rhinetones on a figure skating dress involves choosing the brand and color of rhinestones. There are a variety of colors and sizes of sew-on rhinestones to match most costumes. When selecting sew-on rhinestones, make sure you consider the crystal type that will be used for the dress. Flat-backed rhinestones are made of crystal, while Crystal ABs have an iridescent coating.
Before you start selecting rhinestones for a figure skating dress, determine the density and number of stones per inch. You can do this by using a simple formula: multiply the length of the trim with the number of stones per inch. If you can’t figure out your dress’s density by looking at images, you can mark dots on it and calculate the desired quantity.
Before applying rhinestones to a figure skating dress, make sure the garment is clean and dry. A thin layer of wax paper may be necessary to protect the surface from the glue. Place the rhinestones on the fabric, leaving a small gap between each stone. The glue should be a bit smaller than the rhinestone itself, and it should squeeze out of the edges of the stone when it is pressed into the glue. This creates a seal that prevents the stones from peeling off later. Then, let it dry flat for 24 hours to ensure that they stay in place.
While many designers are fond of a flat-back rhinestone look, a hot-fix look may not be suitable for every dress. The “hot-fix” look, however, is better for a figure skating dress that reflects light. Swarovski rhinestones have higher sparkle than “flat-backed” ones, and the quality of Swavorski stones is unmatched.
Rhinestones come in different sizes and shapes. While the flat-backed type adheres more easily to fabric, “hot-fix” rhinestones require a special ironing process to adhere them to a dress. A flat-backed rhinestone is more affordable, but you will need a special iron to apply the sequins to a figure skating dress.
In addition to the flat-backed option, a hot-fix crystal is more difficult to remove than flat-backed rhinestones. If you’ve applied a flat-backed rhinestone to a figure skating dress, you may need to remove it first. Using a wet glue removes the adhesive and the stone, but may leave the backing attached. Pure acetone is an excellent option for dissolving set glue. Test on a scrap fabric first to ensure it doesn’t degrade the glue.
Choosing colors of rhinestones
When choosing rhinestones for a figure skating dress, you will need to consider the color of the fabric. Regular colored rhinestones come in different shades of clear crystal, while AB colors have special coatings for extra sparkle. You may also choose to use “special effect” colors, which come in multiple shades of glass with special backings and coatings.
The most common colors for figure skating apparel are crystal AB, clear stone. These reflect the most light and blend in with most costumes. They are available in different sizes and colors, so you can get creative with the style you choose. While rhinestones are hard to photograph, you can use your imagination to pick the colors that look best on your figure skating dress. Choosing colors of rhinestones on a figure skating dress will make your dress pop on stage!
About The Author
Mindy Vu is a part time shoe model and professional mum. She loves to cook and has been proclaimed the best cook in the world by her friends and family. She adores her pet dog Twinkie, and is happily married to her books.