Make sure you think about what sort of design you’d like before you draw over the fabric. Lightly press the tailor’s chalk onto the fabric so that you don’t break the edge for future projects.
Avoid using white school glue since it becomes brittle when it dries. This can cause the sequins to pop off. Flat sequins don’t have a designated front and back, although cupped sequins should be glued on the flat side. This will allow it to catch and reflect more light. [3] X Research source If you find it hard to glue sequins with your fingers (for example, your fingers feel a little too sticky), use a toothpick, pencil, or tweezers to lift and place the sequins. [4] X Research source
Most tacky or fabric glues should dry within 15 to 30 seconds. The glue should be completely hardened before you use or wear the fabric. Let it dry longer if it still feels tacky or sticky.
Although you may think it’s easier to apply all the glue at once and then place the sequins on the glue dots, your glue might dry before you get the sequins down. Start out by just doing 6 sequins at a time until you get faster. Be gentle when rubbing the sequins since they can fall off. If some do fall off, you might want to consider reattaching them with a stronger glue.
Keep a small bottle of craft glue in your bag or purse to touch up any sequins that may fall off. This way, you can quickly glue them back on.
Try to have extra length of sequin strip. This way, you can make sure you won’t run out and need to add a second strip which could discontinue the design and look unprofessional. You can always trim away excess sequin strip when you’re done.
If you ever need half a sequin, use sharp scissors to make a clean cut down the middle. Blunt scissors will bend the sequin rather than cut it.
When joining strips, be sure to carefully align the ends so that they appear to keep running in a single strip.
To keep the strip from sliding, hold the ends in place for about 10 seconds or so before letting go. You may also choose to dab the fabric itself, running the glue across the place you’d like to attach the sequin strip.
If glue oozes out from the center, let it dry and use it as a rivet to keep the sequins in place. [7] X Research source Wait until all the glue dries before you wear or use the garment or fabric.
To test for dryness, gently pat tweezers, pencil, or your fingers near the glued fabrics. If the glue is still sticky, give it more time to set.
You can find eyelash glue at drugstores and latex glue or spirit glue at beauty supply stores.
Test the glue in a small area of your skin before applying the sequins. Make sure that your skin doesn’t negatively react to the glue. If you notice redness, swelling, or irritation, don’t use the glue. Be sure not to get any rubbing alcohol or soap in your eyes.
Use a small makeup or flat eye shadow brush to dab the glue onto the sequin or your skin. [11] X Research source
Be gentle when touching the glued on sequins. Rough movement can cause the sequins to fall off. If a sequin falls out of place, remove the sequin and reattach it with your glue. [12] X Research source Keep some extra glue in your bag or purse to reattach sequins at your event. If you’re trying to make a row of sequins stick on your face, it can be helpful to use a mirror to ensure you’re keeping the row even.
Follow any manufacturer’s instructions for removing the specific adhesive you used. If you’re having trouble, use rubbing alcohol to help remove the sequins and dissolve the glue.
