Creative Uses For Swarovski Crystals In Art And Design
February 27th, 2009 . by Learn For FreeThe art inclined types are likely already familiar with the rhinestone- a decorative object that is cheap to buy and looks great on clothing, electronics, and other objects. But some who take pride in their creativity aren’t aware of one of the best kept secrets in rhinestones: the Swarovski flat back crystal. It’s a shame, for this crystal in particular has many applications.
A quick way to tell a Swarovski from a normal rhinestone is to count the number of facets it has. A Swarovski crystal has 14 facets, as compared to the 8 facets that other rhinestones still commonly use. Swarovski crystals also usually have a chemical coating or high lead content to help create a unique sparkle, shine, or glimmer. This encourages artists to use such crystals in more creative ways.
There are different types of objects that will require different applications when applying a Swarovski crystal. Because of this, there are two main applications of Swarovski crystals: silver foil back crystals and hot fix crystals. The hot fix crystal is easy, since it already has glue on it and only needs to be heated up next to an object. The silver foil is used most, however, and is applied with special glue supplied by the artist. Knowing which method to use is important in applying the crystal.
Silver foil back crystals are used most, since they don’t require excessive temperatures in order to bond the object to the crystal. Instead, they require a glue gun that bonds the object to the crystal without heating either object up too quickly. Generally, silver foil crystals will take 24-48 hours in order to make an appropriate bond with the object, so try to allow time for the glue to finish bonding the objects.
Generally, it isnt safe to wash most clothes that have Swarovski crystals applied for up to a week after. Crystals applied to things such as mobile phones should be left alone for at least a 24 hour period, to ensure the glue sets correctly. Dry cleaning is usually a bad idea even after the glue has dried, and usually results in crystals falling off and making unsightly glue stains left behind.
Instructions should come with the crystals bought online or at local retail stores. If there isn’t, be sure to consult a hobbyist or go online to learn about how to correctly apply glue, the crystal, and what can or can’t be done. Leather, for instance, is going to be sanded down before applying since it has many oils within it.
Closing Comments
There are hundreds of art projects that would benefit from a Swarovski flat back crystal. If you need more ideas, try going to other art websites for ways to make use of your precious Swarovski crystals.
Learn more about Swarovski rhinestones and Swarovski flat back rhinestones.