Half Pearls

What are Flatback Pearls and How Can You Use Them?

We’ve talked quite a bit about different aspects of rhinestones, their sparkle, facets, and sizing. However, sometimes you want to add classical elegance and not sparkle. Flatback pearls give an opulent luster with timeless beauty. 
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What Are Flatback Pearls?

Sometimes, you may also hear people calling this embellishment half pearls or pearl cabochons. With a rounded top and a flat back, you can glue them to many items:
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• bridal wear
• shoes
• handbags
• nail art
• dance wear
• formal dresses
• tumblers

Like rhinestones, you’ll find many manufacturers of half pearls using different materials to create their products. Flatback pearls can have a base of either plastic, acrylic, or glass. The manufacturer coats this base with a pearlescent coating to give it a luster to imitate the real thing.

Usually, the ingredients in the coatings are guarded trade secrets. Often, higher-quality brands use nacre, the shiny, iridescent substance secreted by the mollusk. Others may use various ingredients such as varnish, fish scales, or minerals.

Depending on the manufacturer, imitation pearls are available in different sizes and colors. Sizes range from tiny 2mm to large 10mm. Furthermore, manufacturers produce an assortment of colors from the classical ivory to pastels, metallics, and mixed hues. 

How To Attach Half Pearls

Similar to bedazzling gems, half pearls are available in glue on or hotfix applications. Since glueable pearls are more popular, you’ll find them in a greater variety of sizes and colors.

Gluing pearl cabochons is simple, similar to crystal rhinestones. You’ll want to use a drop of glue slightly smaller than the pearl. When you press the pearl into the glue, some of the glue should seep out from the sides. Doing so provides a seal that keeps the pearl from peeling off.
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To use hotfix pearls, you’ll need an applicator wand. This tool allows you to apply hotfix pearls one at a time to your project. You can also create an iron on transfer using transfer paper. Then use an iron or heat press to apply.

FAQs About Flatback Pearls

Pearls reflect light with a shimmering effect, making them a sought-after gemstone. With pearl embellishments, you can bling projects with a gentle radiance. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about using this trim. 
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Which Glue Is Best For Applying Pearl Cabochons?

That depends on your product and the project’s surface. For example, some manufacturers use acrylic to make their half pearls. While many crafters like E6000 as an adhesive, the manufacturer doesn’t recommend some of its glues on plastic or acrylic. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before beginning your project. 
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How Do I Clean Clothing with Pearls?

Generally, hand washing with a gentle detergent is the best method. When washing, avoid wringing or twisting the garment and lay it flat to dry. 
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Where Can I Buy Pearl Cabochons?

Since 2011, Rhinestones Etc. has been supplying crafters with high quality embellishments. Our customers love our fast processing and overall customer service. Here’s what a few of them say about us:

Always great and quick shipping. – Laura

These are just as described and arrived on-time. Thank you! – Christine

Great experience will buy again- Joyce

Ready to add some bling? Browse our online store to create your personal style.