How to bedazzle a dance costume

What to know first

Stretch fabric is the opposite of a tumbler: it moves constantly and far. A stone glued to relaxed Lycra ends up under strain when the costume is on, and pops. Stretching the fabric over a form while you work, and using a flexible glue, is what keeps stones on through a routine. Stage lighting is also the one place where glass’s extra sparkle really shows.

What you need

• Glass flatbacks, mixed SS10–SS30
• Flexible adhesive suitable for stretch fabric
• A dress form, or card and a bottle to stretch the fabric over
• Wax pick-up pen

Step by step

1. Put the costume on a form or stretch sections over card to wearing tension.
2. Test the glue on a seam allowance.
3. Apply stones in small patches along the design lines.
4. Cure fully while still stretched.
5. Hand wash inside out and dry flat.

Avoid

• Gluing fabric while relaxed
• Heat on high-stretch panels
• Under-arm and inner-thigh areas that rub