DIY “Love” Rhinestone Template

Very often, we use the word “love” to describe a variety of things we care about. For example, I love chocolate (well, who doesn’t), or I love that outfit. We also use it to describe human relationships, as in “I love you”. Not far off is Valentine’s Day, the holiday to celebrate love.  One way to celebrate is to wear a blinged out t-shirt emblazoned with the word “love” on it. Our downloadable rhinestone template makes it easy to make your very own rhinestone t-shirt. Even if you have never blinged out anything before, you can easily make this shirt.
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How to Use Our Rhinestone Template
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First, download the template. Just click here to do so. The template tells the size and quantity of the rhinestones you will need. Decide on a rhinestone color. You can use crystal on any colored shirt or try another color such as red or black on a contrasting color.

Next, decide whether you want to use hot fix rhinestones or flat back (glue-on) rhinestones. Both are easy to use and are a matter of preference. If you choose hot fix rhinestones, you will need either a hot fix tool or transfer paper. Glue on rhinestones will require an adhesive.  

How to Make a Hot Fix Transfer

Hot fix rhinestones already have glue on them. Using transfer paper with them makes the process super easy. Lay out the rhinestones facet side up according to the pattern. Peel the transfer paper from its backing and gently place the sticky side on top of the rhinestones. Gently press down so that the rhinestones stick to the transfer paper.

Position the rhinestone transfer on your t-shirt. Heat up your iron to the hottest setting without steam. When hot, gently press down on the transfer holding for about 15 seconds. Pick up the iron and reposition the iron to another part of the rhinestone transfer. Repeat this process until all the rhinestones have been heated. DO NOT slide the iron as this may dislodge and move the rhinestones.  Allow to cool for a few minutes and then remove the transfer paper. Your shirt is now finished.
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An alternative is to use a hot fix tool. As with the glue on method, lay out the rhinestones on the shirt and remove one rhinestone at a time to heat. 
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How to Use the Rhinestone Template with Glue-On Rhinestones

Flat back rhinestones require the use of an adhesive. My favorite glue for fabrics is Gem-Tac. It is perfect for gluing rhinestones to fabric, dries clear, is washable and is easy to apply.

Place the rhinestones on your shirt according to the template. Then, when you are ready to glue, pick up one rhinestone off the shirt. Squeeze a drop of glue just slightly smaller than the rhinestone in its place. Press the rhinestone into the glue drop. Some of the glue should seep out from the edges. This is necessary to form a seal which helps to keep the rhinestone from peeling off.

​Continue gluing in this manner until all the rhinestones have been glued in place. While hot fix rhinestone glue dries quickly, adhesives for flat back need to dry flat for 24 hours. 
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​Additionally, our finished rhinestone transfer measures 7.75 inches by 3 inches. Combine it with our heart template for even more bling! Wear it on Valentine’s day or whenever you feel like showing your love. 
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Need rhinestones to bling out your shirt? Rhinestones Etc has discount prices and great customer service!
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