Metallic Foil Instructions

Metallic Foiling Instructions

Introduction...

    Metallic foils add elegance to dyed and painted fabrics. The foils are made of thin layers of metallic plastic fused to a sheet of cellophane. The Jones Tones foils are applied to the fabric on top of dried Plexi 400 Clear Glue, then the cellophane is peeled away. Plastic foils do not tarnish over time.

Care...

    Foiled fabrics should be hand washed with a biodegradable soap. Let air dry 72 hours before washing. Line dry. They may not be dry-cleaned. Do not iron over the foil.

Notes...

    Foils will adhere to heavy as well as lightweight weaves but the texture affects the way the foil looks on the fabric - make a sample. On smooth evenly woven fabrics the glue adhesive may be stamped, stenciled or applied over a fusible web. Textured fabrics are best silk-screened with glue for an even coverage.

    Metallic foils are best applied as a final process, they cannot be immersed in fabric dyes for lengths of time. Fabric paints do not adequately bond to foils.

    Plexi 400 glue is a non toxic product. It is stretchable and remains soft on the fabric. It is acid free and may also be used to adhere sequins or glitters. Sprinkle on glitter within 5 minutes of glue application.

Glued Foiling Instructions...

    1. Stretch the dry ironed fabric on a work surface.

    2. Pour a small amount of glue into a shallow container. Dip a foam or bristle brush in the glue. A big brush works well for broad strokes. A small brush works well for detailed patterns. For freeform patterns and lines, touch the nozzle tip to the surface and squeeze the glue directly from the bottle. Stamp the glue onto the fabric with a hand cut block print or purchased stamp. Apply glue through a stencil using a sponge or roller.

    3. Wait for the glue to completely dry, (it will look clear). The glue will dry naturally in 4 to 8 hours, time may be reduced by using a blow dryer. Wash all tools immediately after use as once the glue dries it is permanent. Dried glue will ruin brushes, silk-screens and stencils.

    4. Place the foil colour side up over the dry glue. Press in a rubbing motion with your fingers or use the back of a spoon to burnish over the foil. Lift the foil and reposition. Continue to burnish and lift foil until all areas of the Plexi 400 are covered.

Troubleshooting...

    If a foiled area is not covered properly there may not be enough glue on the fabric.

    If the foil does not transfer make sure it is positioned colour side up.

Tips...

    Save partially used foil, the sheets may be reused until all the foil is gone and only clear cellophane remains.

    Add a variety of colours by cutting the foil into strips and alternating colours. Previously foiled areas will not pick up more foil.

    Foil may be reapplied over previously foiled areas. Apply a thin coat of glue over the area to be reworked, let dry naturally. Reapply the foil.

    The foil will only stick to uncovered Plexi 400.

Click here to locate metallic foils in our catalogue

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