Gold findings for jewelry
September 10, 2020Swarovski FAQ – Part 2
October 30, 2020Swarovski is an Austrian family business that since 1885 has been producing crystals which stand out by maximum cutting precision, form perfection and marvelous brilliance. Find out more about the brand. Swarovski crystals are made of a combination of quartz, sand and various minerals, which, thanks to the use of specific formulas and cuts developed over the years, obtain the highest quality. Crystals are widely used to make jewelry, accessories, clothing, and they are also popular in interior design. Swarovski offers a wide range of shapes, sizes, colors, effects and application methods. To make it easier to start the adventure with crystals, the company has also developed a multi-page guide that describes in detail all the products, techniques of application and care, but not many people have the time and willingness to familiarize themselves with this extensive encyclopedia, so below we have summarized the most frequently asked questions.
Non HotFix crystals have no glue layer attached but are covered with platinum foil for extra shine and protection. Non HotFix can be applied in 3 ways: with glue, with Swarovski Ceralun or with stone setting machine.
HotFix is recommended when applying large amounts of crystals on heat-resistant materials – as this application is faster. However, when applying single or smaller amounts of crystals on temperature-sensitive materials – No HotFix is recommended.
HotFix is used on highly absorbent materials, so before starting the application, a water drop test should be applied. If water soaks into the material quickly, it indicates high absorbency. If water remains on the surface in the form of pearls or soaks very slowly, it means insufficient absorption of the material, which can reduce the effectiveness of HotFix application.
How to apply HotFix?
Several solutions can be applied to the HotFix such as: heat press, ultrasonic device (suitable for products: 2078, 2038, 2716, 2816, 2826), stone setting machine, HotFix applicator (suitable for products: 2078, 2038) or iron without steam. Regardless of the method chosen, when applying HotFix, few factors should be taken into account:
For crystals in different sizes, use a compensating pad such as: silicone foam, foam rubber or felt to match the crystals height (figure 5).
THERMAL PRESS:
ULTRASONIC DEVICE:
HOTFIX APPLICATOR:
Using the Swarovski crystal applicator is a cost-effective option. In order to apply, choose an applicator point adapted to the size of the crystal, heat the applicator, pick up the crystal and when the glue dissolves, place the crystal on the base material and press firmly.
IRON:
If you do not have any of the above devices, it is possible to use a domestic iron, but it must be a steam-free one, as water droplets and steam may have a negative effect on the bond between crystals and material. In order to apply with an iron, depending on the type of crystals and the base material, set the temperature of the iron not higher than 150 °C. In order to avoid penetration of the glue into the subsequent layers of the material, it is worth separating them with felt or cardboard, while on the crystals it is worth placing a Teflon foil, to avoid the iron becoming stained with the glue.
No HotFix application
When selecting a glue, few factors should be taken into account such as:
For better connection of crystals with the base material, it is worth using custom-made cavities or dedicated bases (figure 4-5). The cavity facilitates better seating and protection of the crystal against mechanical and chemical factors. They can be made by casting, drilling, milling or water jet cutting.
When applying small crystals in a fitted cavity, it is worth using a strong bonding adhesive, preferably
two part epoxy glue, which has a lower degree of shrinkage and provides greater strength. When deciding on a two-component glue, it is very important to keep the recommended proportions, mix the ingredients until a homogeneous consistency and not to exceed the recommended pot life.
How to apply Swarovski Ceralun?
When placing the crystals in the Ceralun mass, make sure that it is sunk perpendicularly to the correct depth.
Ceralun is available in 17 shades, but if you need less standard colors, you can mix the basic ones. However, it is important to mix epoxy resin and hardener of each color before you mix them together.
Why does Ceralun not harden or the crystals become detached?
How to apply Crystal Mesh No HotFix?
Crystal Mesh care
If you found this article valuable, we would be grateful if you like, share with others, or comment, which will be an energy booster for us to write more articles! Thanks and Have a Nice Day!
Follow us:
Instagram: @jewelry.findings
Facebook: 925CRAFT silver components
Youtube: DIY WITH 925CRAFT
Pinterest: 925CRAFT
Tik Tok: 925CRAFT (@925craft)
Join our group of jewelry makers: Making jewellery with 925CRAFT
Related posts
Cube beads with letters for jewellery making
How to Make Charm Bracelets and Bead Bracelets
How to make jewelry for communion
How to make string bracelets – a guide for jewelry makers from 925CRAFT
Infinity bracelets and clover bracelets – how to make bracelets with symbols
Jewelry trends for winter 2023
Wholesaler of natural stones for making jewelry – 925CRAFT
How to start a jewelry business – a guide for beginners
How to use silver hoop earring findings – part 1
2 Comments
I have 700 to 1000 pearls to sell….I’m reasonable I need the money
Thank u in advance
Hi,
I’m not sure how we can help,
best to try to sell them on platform such as ebay, or publish it on Facebook jewelry makers groups,
regards 🙂