Need a quick refresher on how to fuse GlitterFlex vinyl? No problem!
Most of the time, GlitterFlex will be fused right in the hoop. Move the hoop to a flat, hard ironing surface. You can use a thin Teflon pressing sheet, piece of cotton fabric, or the clear carrier that you removed from your GlitterFlex, if you like. Admittedly, I've also been known to not use a pressing cloth at all and have not had any issues with melted vinyl or scorched fabric. However, I will say that the manufacturer recommends using a pressing cloth. (Sometimes I have a tendency to live a little recklessly and break the rules.)
Every iron is different just like no two ovens are the same. For example, one oven may take a little longer than another to bake cookies. Therefore, you should always test the heat setting of your iron to help you determine how hot your iron needs to be and how long you need to fuse.
Testing Iron Temperature
As a starting point, heat your dry iron or heat press to a cotton setting (350 degrees, no steam). Press a scrap of GlitterFlex on a scrap of cotton fabric for 17 to 20 seconds.
After the GlitterFlex cools, make sure the edges stick well to the fabric and do not peel back. If GlitterFlex is not properly fused, you may need to increase your iron's temperature or fuse for a longer period of time.
Fusing GlitterFlex
Once you find the right combination of heat and time, press each section of GlitterFlex in your embroidery. Hold the iron in place (press, do not move it back and forth) for the amount of time that works for your iron. It is a process, but the results are well worth it!
Let the GlitterFlex applique cool so that it is well fused to the background fabric before continuing to stitch the embroidery. Your GlitterFlex should lay nice and flat. If you see a bubble, fuse that area again as you may have missed a spot.
When the GlitterFlex is cool, continue embroidery.
If you accidently get a piece of GlitterFlex fused where it doesn’t belong, visit this blog for east removal tips.
Want to know what iron and ironing surface that I use? Get the links here.
May your day be blessed with perfect stitches and GlitterFlex!
Bonnie Welsh - October 01, 2018
Nancy—You’re absolutely right. You most certainly can wash and dry garments with GlitterFlex. The manufacturer recommends washing “cool inside out and tumble dry”. I washed a test sew (no way to turn it inside out) 6 times just to test and it turned out perfectly fine.
Bonnie Welsh - October 01, 2018
Carol—Tanya has filled all the orders so you shouldn’t have to wait too much longer. I know your grandchildren will LOVE their sparkly clothes. My grandson (1-2 years) wore a favorite sparkly airplane on his jacket until the jacket sleeves were half way up his arm. LOL
Bonnie Welsh - October 01, 2018
Earlene and Dee—Thank you for the kind words. So very nice of you to say!
Nancy Znamierowski - October 01, 2018
Love Glitterflex! Please refresh my memory as to washer and dryer restrictions. I think both are ok but with appropriate heat applcations.
Carol Jenks - October 01, 2018
Love, love, love Glitter Flex. Have 4 grandchildren under 11 years old and am doing sweatshirts and t-shirts with glitter flex designs for part of their Christmas. Can’t wait to receive me order.
Dee E - October 01, 2018
I so appreciate your ‘how-to’ blogs. I always learn something new. Thank you Bonnie ❤️
Earlene Jones - October 01, 2018
Enjoy your site very much.