Sparkle Made Simple: Apply Sequins and Embellishments Like a Pro!

For many crafters, sequins are the sparkly finishing touch that adds magic to any handmade project. Yet, for some, the idea of applying them feels like more trouble than it’s worth. All the glue, sticky fingers, and frustration when it comes to placement can be a real pain.

But guess what? With the right adhesives, tools, and a sprinkle of creativity, adding those dazzling embellishments can be as joyful as crafting itself. Let’s learn how to make sequins work with you and not against you.

Why Use Sequins in Cardmaking?

Sequins are more than just bling, they’re a statement. These tiny, reflective beauties can help accentuate the focal points of your cards and accompany almost any element! Whether you’re playing with stamps, dies, embossing folders, or more, they can elevate your design and add dimension, texture, and of course, sparkle! 

Not to mention, they’re amazing for other paper crafting projects too! Use them for scrapbooking layouts or mixed media art on top of cardmaking. They’re pretty, easy to craft with, and incredibly versatile too! 

Tips to Make the Sequin Application Process Easier

Now, it’s time to get down to business and eliminate your sequin woes once and for all! Here are a few things to consider to make your embellishment experience fun and convenient! 

Have a Variety of Sequin Sizes Available

One thing that most crafters or cardmakers may overlook is understanding sequin sizes. Sure, from a certain perspective, all of them are tiny, but the size of your sequins can impact the projects you create, not to mention how much glue or precision is needed to place them.

Stellar Sequins - Twinkling Pink

The tinier the sequins, the more challenging they could be to acquire. On the other hand, larger ones make a bigger statement and can sometimes be applied by hand. 

Use the Appropriate Sequin Glue or Adhesives

While most glue types will do the trick, the sequin application process will be easier with the right adhesives. Liquid glue administered through a bottle with a very thin nozzle would be the best, especially if you’re dealing with the tiniest sequins.

Plot Your Placement Before Adhering

We get how it can be incredibly exciting to start placing your sequins as soon as possible, but try to hold off on adhering them until you’re sure of where you want to place them. If you’re using them as finishing touches or accents, it’s better to adhere them right before you finish working on a card. 

Stellar Sequins - Dazzling Diamond

On the other hand, don’t forget the odd number rule when it comes to applying sequins. This means adding embellishments in clusters of 3 or more odd numbers so that they look more effortless and natural. 

Get an Embellishment Tool for Easy Application

If you’re the kind of crafter who doesn’t like to get glue on their hands, then an embellishment tool is a must! Altenew’s Perfect Picker tool is the best for sequins thanks to its dual ends, a wax tip for picking up embellishments, and a needle-like tip for placing and adjusting. This is an absolute game-changer and will make your sequin application process even more fun and convenient.

Perfect Picker and Wax Tip Replacements

Add Sparkle to Your Cardmaking Without the Stress!

Sequins don’t have to be intimidating or time-consuming. With the right tools—adhesives, sequin glue, and techniques- you’ll find that adding shimmer to your projects is not only easy but a whole lot of fun too! The more you practice, the more adept you’ll be at applying sequins.

Give it a try and let us know what you think! For more cardmaking and embellishment tips, tricks, and techniques, read more HERE! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do you apply sequins?

A: The sequin application process is done with a type of adhesive or sequin glue. Most crafters apply a dot of glue where they want the sequin to go and then add the sequin on top. It’s quick and easy, plus it makes for great accents for any paper crafting project. 

Q: How to use sequins on cards?

A: To use sequins on handmade cards, you will need to choose sizes and colors that complement other elements of your card. You can also make shaker cards that highlight the sequins as the main focal point in your project! 

Q: Is it hard to apply sequins?

A: It may seem hard and even a bit messy to apply sequins (especially if you’re a beginner), but it’s actually super easy with the right tools! All you need to do is apply a dot of glue where you want your sequin to go and add the sequin on top.