Attaching Rhinestones To A Satin Wedding Gown: A Guide

Rhinestones are a popular way to add some extra sparkle to a wedding gown. They come in a variety of colours and sizes, and can be attached to the dress itself or the veil. They can be sewn or glued onto a range of fabrics, including satin. However, it is important to be cautious when attaching rhinestones, as the wrong type of glue may cause discolouration, and a dull needle can cause damage to delicate fabrics.

Rhinestones: Sew or glue?

Rhinestones can be attached to a wedding gown in two ways: sewing or gluing. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider which option is best suited for your specific needs and preferences. Here is a detailed comparison between the two methods:

Sewing Rhinestones:

Sewing rhinestones onto a wedding gown is a more permanent and durable option. Sewn-on rhinestones are less likely to fall off, ensuring that your gown will sparkle and shine for years to come. If you are looking for a long-lasting solution, sewing is the way to go. However, it is important to note that sewing rhinestones can be a time-consuming and meticulous task, especially if you are attaching a large number of stones.

When sewing rhinestones, it is crucial to use a new, sharp needle to avoid causing any damage to the delicate fabric of the wedding gown. The natural oils on your hands can also leave marks on the fabric, so it is recommended to keep your hands clean during the process. Sewing by hand allows you to place each rhinestone exactly where you want it, giving you greater control over the design and layout.

Gluing Rhinestones:

Gluing rhinestones is a quicker and easier method than sewing, especially if you are working with a large number of stones. It does not require any special skills or tools, making it a more convenient option for those who are not confident in their sewing abilities. Gluing is also a good choice if you want to attach rhinestones to a delicate fabric that may be difficult to sew through.

However, it is important to note that glue may not hold the rhinestones securely during long-term storage, and it may cause discoloration of the fabric over time. The type of glue used is crucial, and it is recommended to use a specialty glue like E-6000 for best results. Gluing rhinestones may not be as permanent as sewing, but it can still be a secure method of attachment if done correctly.

In conclusion, both sewing and gluing have their advantages and disadvantages. Sewing is more permanent and durable but requires more time and skill, while gluing is quicker and easier but may not be as long-lasting. Ultimately, the decision between sewing and gluing rhinestones depends on your personal preferences, the amount of time you are willing to invest, and the specific characteristics of your wedding gown.

Rhinestone colour options

Rhinestones come in a variety of colours and effects, which can be used to complement the dress and the overall theme of the wedding. Here is a guide to help you choose the right rhinestone colour options to add some extra sparkle and personality to your wedding gown.

Clear Rhinestones

The industry standard, clear rhinestones, are made to resemble diamonds with a classic, brilliant look. These are usually made from crystal, glass, or plastics like acrylic and resin.

Transparent Coloured Rhinestones

Transparent coloured rhinestones are created in the same way as clear rhinestones but come in a range of colours while maintaining a sparkly finish.

AB Colour Rhinestones

AB rhinestones are named after the aurora borealis (northern lights) and are made by applying an iridescent coating to a clear rhinestone, resulting in a multicolour, rainbow effect.

Pearl Rhinestones

Pearl rhinestones are designed to mimic the look of pearls and come in various pearl colours, including nacre pearl.

Opal Rhinestones

Opal rhinestones are crafted to resemble opals, featuring an iridescent finish.

Opaque Rhinestones

Opaque rhinestones are not transparent and come in colour palettes like pastel macarons and neon shades.

Ceramic Rhinestones

Ceramic rhinestones imitate the finish found on decorative ceramics, offering a unique look.

Matte Rhinestones

Matte rhinestones have a finish that is not shiny, providing a subtle effect.

Special Finish Rhinestones

Special finishes include gold, silver, marble, brushed, and sprayed rhinestones. Other options include terrazzo, floral, or leaf patterns.

Animal Print Rhinestones

Animal print rhinestones come in various prints, such as tiger, leopard, and giraffe, and a variety of colours, adding a wild touch to your gown.

Standard Colours

Standard colours are usually inspired by precious or semi-precious stone names, like amethyst, aquamarine, garnet, sapphire, and topaz.

Special Effect Colours

Special effect colours include coatings like Aurora Borealis (AB) and Shimmer AB, which create a rainbow-like iridescence. Metallic coatings, such as gold, rose gold, and metallic light gold, are also available.

When choosing your rhinestone colour palette, consider purchasing colour sample cards to get a realistic idea of how the rhinestones will complement your wedding gown.

Rhinestone placement on a wedding gown

Rhinestones can be added to a wedding gown to give it a unique, sparkling look. They can be applied in various ways, including glue, sew-on, and heat-seal, and are usually made from glass or crystal. When it comes to placement, it is important to create a balance so that the dress doesn't look too busy or overdone. Here are some tips and ideas for placing rhinestones on a wedding gown:

• A good rule of thumb is to apply the rhinestones in clusters of three or five. This will help create a cohesive and elegant look without overwhelming the dress.
• Consider the size and colour of the rhinestones. Smaller, neutral-coloured rhinestones will give a subtle look, while larger, bolder-coloured rhinestones will create a more dramatic effect.
• Rhinestones can be used to accentuate certain parts of the dress, such as the neckline, sleeves, or skirt. For example, delicate rhinestone accents on sheer sleeves can add a touch of glamour.
• If you want to add some sparkle to the entire gown, consider using a variety of rhinestone sizes and colours to create an ombré effect or a gradual build-up of sparkle.
• Think about the overall theme and style of the wedding. For instance, if you're going for a vintage chic theme, you might want to use rhinestones sparingly and focus on accenting specific areas. On the other hand, if you're aiming for modern glamour, a more generous use of rhinestones might be appropriate.
• Play around with different shapes and cuts of rhinestones to create unique patterns or designs. You can even create words or initials out of rhinestones for a personalised touch.
• Don't forget the back of the gown! A beautiful arrangement of rhinestones trailing down the back or accentuating a low backline can make for a stunning surprise element.
• If you're unsure about placement, consider consulting a professional seamstress or designer who can help you create a cohesive and elegant look.

Rhinestones on a satin wedding gown: Pros and cons

Rhinestones are a great way to add some sparkle and glamour to a wedding gown. They can be used to transform a simple dress into something special and unique. Here are some pros and cons of attaching rhinestones to a satin wedding gown:

Pros:

• Rhinestones come in a variety of colours and sizes, allowing you to choose the right ones to complement the dress and the wedding theme.
• They can be attached using double-sided tape for a secure hold or sewn on for a more permanent option.
• You can create a subtle look with smaller, neutral-coloured rhinestones or go for a more dramatic look with larger, bolder-coloured stones.
• Rhinestones can be added to the dress itself or to the veil for extra sparkle.
• Adding rhinestones is a fairly simple process that can be done by hand sewing or gluing them on.
• Designing the layout and pattern of the rhinestones yourself guarantees that your gown reflects your personality.
• A few strategically placed coloured rhinestones can be mixed with clear crystals on an all-white gown to create a stunning effect.

Cons:

• Using too many rhinestones can make the dress look too busy or overdone.
• Sewing on rhinestones is time-consuming and requires careful handling of delicate fabrics.
• Gluing rhinestones may not hold during long-term storage and can cause fabric discolouration over time.
• Rhinestones may not be suitable if you are unsure about permanently altering your dress.

Rhinestone care and maintenance

Rhinestones can be attached to a wedding gown using double-sided tape, sewing, or glue. If you are gluing rhinestones to your wedding gown, be sure to use a strong adhesive.

Cleaning

• Clean your rhinestones with a soft cloth and warm water to remove any dirt or dust.
• For stubborn stains, use a mild soap solution and gently scrub with an old toothbrush.
• Rinse off soap residue and dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
• You can also use rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab to remove stubborn stains.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these may damage the rhinestones.
• If using a glue applicator, wipe off excess glue with a cloth or paper towel. If the glue has hardened, soak the tip in a solvent like nail polish remover.
• Clean your work mat and area regularly to remove any debris or adhesive residue.

Storage

• Store each piece of rhinestone jewellery separately in a soft cloth pouch or box lined with velvet or silk fabric.
• Avoid storing multiple pieces together as they may scratch each other.
• Keep the storage area away from direct sunlight and humidity, as this can damage the rhinestones over time.

Repairs

• If you notice any loose settings, take the item to a professional jeweller for repairs. DIY fixes may cause further damage.
• For clothing with loose rhinestones, use fabric glue to stick them back on.

Washing

• Do not wash clothes with rhinestones in hot water, as the heat will cause the rhinestones to fall out.
• Wash with cold water and on a gentle cycle, with the garment turned inside out.
• Do not put clothes with rhinestones in the dryer, as the heat will cause the rhinestones to fall out. Air-dry instead.
• Ironing is possible if the garment is turned inside out and the iron is set to the lowest heat setting.

Frequently asked questions