Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about ordering hotfix rhinestones, custom transfers, templates, and garment processing from our Yiwu factory.
General Questions
What is a hotfix rhinestone?
A hotfix rhinestone is a flat-back glass or resin crystal stone with a heat-activated adhesive layer on the bottom. When heated (150–170°C) with pressure, the adhesive melts and bonds the stone permanently to fabric. Also called heat-transfer rhinestones or iron-on rhinestones.
What’s the difference between hotfix and non-hotfix (flatback) rhinestones?
Hotfix stones have pre-applied heat-activated glue — you apply them with a heat press or iron. Non-hotfix (flatback) stones have no glue and require separate adhesive (like E6000 or Gem-Tac). Hotfix is faster and more consistent for production use.
What sizes do you carry?
We stock the full international SS (Stone Size) range: SS6 (2mm), SS8 (2.4mm), SS10 (2.8mm), SS12 (3.2mm), SS16 (4mm), SS20 (4.8mm), SS30 (6.5mm). SS10 and SS16 are the most popular for garment decoration.
How do I choose the right stone grade?
- Economy Grade: One-time-use costumes, promotional items, tight budgets
- Grade A (Middle East): Dance costumes, cheer uniforms, regular apparel — best value
- Premium Austrian-look: Swimwear, premium brands, items requiring frequent washing
- Resin: Lightweight needs, children’s clothing, thin delicate fabrics
Ordering & Shipping
What is your MOQ?
- Loose stones: 1 bag per size/color (typically 1440pcs for SS10)
- Ready transfers: 20 pieces per design
- Custom transfers: 20 pieces per design
- Garment processing: 50 pieces per design
- Custom templates: 1 piece
How long does production take?
- Stock items: Ship within 1–3 days
- Custom transfers: 7–12 days after sample approval
- Garment processing: 7–15 days depending on quantity
- Custom templates: 5–7 days
What shipping methods do you offer?
DHL, FedEx, UPS express (3–7 days worldwide) for small/medium orders. Sea freight (20–35 days) for large bulk orders. We can also ship to your freight forwarder in China.
What payment methods do you accept?
T/T (bank transfer), PayPal, Western Union. For large orders, we accept 30% deposit + 70% before shipment.
Quality & Technical
Will the stones fall off after washing?
When applied correctly (proper temperature, pressure, and time), our Grade A stones withstand 30+ machine wash cycles and Premium stones withstand 50+ cycles. We recommend washing inside-out in cold water for maximum longevity.
Are your stones safe for children’s clothing?
Yes. All our stones are REACH compliant, lead-free, nickel-free, and cadmium-free. We can provide SGS test reports for your compliance documentation.
Can you match specific Pantone colors?
Yes. We have 200+ standard colors and can custom-produce colors to match Pantone references for orders of 50+ bags per color.
What fabrics can you apply rhinestones to?
Cotton, polyester, lycra/spandex, nylon, silk, chiffon, denim, leather, lace, mesh, and most blended fabrics. For waterproof or silicone-coated fabrics, we recommend testing first.
Custom Design
What file formats do you accept for custom designs?
AI, EPS, PDF (vector preferred), CDR, PNG, JPG (minimum 300dpi). Even hand sketches or reference photos work — our design team will create the production layout.
Do you charge for design/layout work?
No. Custom transfer layout design is free for all orders. You only pay for the physical product.
Can I get a physical sample before bulk order?
Yes. Sample time is 3–5 days. Sample cost is refundable against your bulk order. For first-time customers, we offer one free sample transfer for evaluation.
Still Have Questions?
Contact us directly via email or WhatsApp. We respond within 24 hours (usually much faster during business hours, GMT+8).