PATCH ACADEMY β’ APPLICATION GUIDE
How to Iron On
Rhinestone Patches
All the sparkle, none of the scorch. β¨ Learn how to apply rhinestone patches safely with a household iron while protecting both the stones and your garment.
BEFORE YOU START
Four things that matter most.
Rhinestones don't particularly enjoy being introduced directly to a hot iron. π¬
Controlled Heat
Check the garment care label and use a temperature suitable for the fabric.
No Steam
Use dry heat. Steam can interfere with the heat-activated adhesive.
Protect the Patch
Never place the hot soleplate directly onto rhinestones.
Heat From Behind
Where possible, apply heat from the reverse of the garment.
KNOW YOUR FABRIC
Heat the adhesive.
Not the garment.
The correct temperature depends on the garment underneath your patch. Cotton and denim generally tolerate heat better than many synthetics.
Always check the garment care label first. Start cautiously and increase heat only where the fabric permits it. Delicate, coated, waterproof or heat-sensitive materials may be better suited to sewing instead.
Read our full iron-on guide β
WHY THE EXTRA CARE?
Rhinestone patches are a little different.
Rhinestone patches combine a fabric patch base, decorative stones and a heat-activated backing. The aim is to melt the adhesive enough to bond with the garment without overheating the decorative face.
That's why firm pressure, dry heat and patience while the patch cools are more useful than simply turning the iron up as high as it will go.
STEP BY STEP
Let's get it attached.
Seven simple steps from loose patch to properly sparkly garment.
Prepare the garment
Make sure the fabric is clean, dry and wrinkle-free.
Position your patch
Place it exactly where you want it before introducing any heat.
Turn the garment over
Where possible, work from the reverse so the iron never touches the stones.
Add protection
Place a clean thin cotton pressing cloth between the iron and fabric.
Press firmly
Apply firm, stationary pressure for around 20β30 seconds. Avoid sliding the iron around.
Let it cool completely
Cooling is part of the bonding process. Don't pull at the edges while the adhesive is still warm.
Check the bond
Once cool, gently test the edges. Repeat cautiously if required, or add a few discreet stitches for extra security.
KEEP THE SPARKLE
Look after it afterwards.
Wash gently
Use a cool, gentle wash where possible and follow the garment's care instructions.
Turn it inside out
This helps protect the rhinestones from rubbing against other garments.
Avoid direct heat
Don't iron directly over the rhinestones after application.
Need extra hold?
A few stitches around the patch edge can make frequently washed items more secure.
READY TO ADD SOME SPARKLE?
Now you know what to do with them. β¨
PATCH ACADEMY
There's plenty more where that came from.
Learn about application, backings, patch types, washing and care before starting your next project.