Custom Table Linens with Hotfix Crystals
2 October 2009
Author: Vickie Pozzolini
As crafter, I enjoy working with Hotfix and Flat Backs crystals, and I also enjoy entertaining family and friends. Not being able to set a table to a specific theme, whether for an annual holiday or a special event, can be frustrating. A simple solution is to create your own custom table linens with Hotfix crystals.
Having a statement piece, like a table runner down the center of the table, is an effective and economical way to decorate the table. When you work with Hotfix and Flat Backs crystals, know the differences between them and how to apply them.
Flat Backs Crystals:
Flat backs are beautiful reflective crystals that can be applied to all surfaces with glue. Use glue that is appropriate for the surface you want to decorate. Apply a small amount of glue to the surface you want to decorate and use tweezers to place the flat backs crystal on top of the glue. Let the glue dry completely before handling the decorated item.
Hotfix Crystals:
Hotfix crystals are the same beautiful reflective crystals as Flat Backs except they have been coated with heat sensitive glue for applying to fabric. Use a Hotfix tool or an iron as the heating element to affix the crystals to the fabric. Plan out your design on the area of the fabric you want to decorate and apply heat to the area for about 30 seconds. Test to make certain all the crystals are adhered. Repeat if necessary. Once properly applied Hotfix crystals items can be washed.
Plan Ahead:
Before you design the table runner think about how it is going to be used. If you usually place platters or other serving dishes in the center of the table, work your design along the edges of the runner. If you don’t place serving pieces on the table, then plan your design to use all the space.
Work your design out on paper first. If the table runner is light and thin enough, you can use the paper design as a guide underneath the fabric and just to follow for placing the crystals on top. Stitching details, as another design element, can complement the Hotfix crystals nicely. Mixing different mediums together can give a design an added something special. When creating custom table linens with Hotfix crystals, the only limit is your imagination!