I love some sparkle and shine on both my paper and fabric projects. And nothing beats some rhinestones to add that “pop” of dazzle! But sometimes the idea of getting out the hot-fix iron is irritating. (Not to mention having to crawl under my craft table to access the outlet.) So I was really eager to try out my new iRock Crystal Heat-Setting Applicator by Imaginisce. It’s cordless!
This compact tool is about 7.5 inches long, and the actual tip is 1 inch. As I mentioned, it’s cordless and takes 3 AA batteries that are not included.
Here’s how it’s described on their website:
This tool will rock your world! The i-rock will permanently affix rhinestones, jewels, pearls, or mirrors to paper, fabric, or even furniture to create a dazzling masterpiece! It’s so easy! No need for messy glue. And with it’s stylish pink design, you might even want to carry it jus as a fashion statement… I do!
Let’s take a closer look. Once you install the batteries, to operate it you slide the switch into the “on” position. But won’t heat up until you depress the button located IN the switch while it’s in the “ON” position.
So it’s a good safety mechanism- unless you are actively depressing that button, the tip won’t heat up. And as soon as you let go, it starts to cool down.
The other feature of the tool worth noting is the tip- it’s completely flat. Most irons have a tip that is open, so that you basically insert the tool on top of the crystal or stud that you are applying and that heats up the glue. With the iRock, the tip heats up and radiates the head into crystal or stud, melting the glue underneath. This means that your crystal/stud won’t get gummed up in the tip- ever!
So to try it out, I slipped the switch into the “on” position, held down the button, and placed the tool on top of some crystals that I had placed on a tee-shirt.
I counted to 10 while I held the tool against the crystal. Then I let it cool down a bit before touching it.
I continued to cover this section of my tee. All of the crystals adhered perfectly!
I also did a little version of a swatch test, using cotton, burlap, and silk.
I also wanted to check and see if different brands of crystals and studs work with the tool, as well. (That flat tip made me skeptical.) But I’m happy to report that Darice, Viva Decor, and Swarovski heat-fix components are all compatible with the iRock. Sweet!
I also tried out the iRock on some paper crafts, like this card….
The iRock secured my crystals to all of the surfaces.
So here’s the low-down: the iRock retails for $12.99USD alone or $35 USD in a starter kit. Since I don’t have to fuss with cords, I think I’m going to be more likely to keep it handy for a quickie embellishment or two.
However, in doing a larger project- like that tee- my hand really started to get tired after a while! (It takes some pressure to keep that button depressed and can result in hand fatigue.) So I will keep my other tool for big projects, but use my iRock for those little projects. But for my money, it’s a great gizmo to have on hand.
Disclosure: I purchased this tool with my own funds.
If you are considering purchasing the iRock tool and/or accessories, please support CTD by using our affiliate links:
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Brandi says
Very nice I still remember the bedazzler days:)
Caryn S. says
NO KIDDING! I just got this in the mail YESTERDAY! I used it on a t-shirt that was missing some of the rhinestones it had originally come with. I did get a starter kit which came with a TON of rhinestones and metal accents. The rhinestone compact that I had was the all clear gems, there’s a great variety of sizes in it and LOTS of gems. It was really easy to find the size I needed to my shirt and they matched perfectly. I have to admit there was a bit of a learning curve, supposedly you should be able to feel when the glue melts but if you don’t know what that feels like it’s a bit of trial and error. I did have to use the tool several times on a few gems before I figured out how long was long enough. I can imagine that your hand might get tired if you use it on a lot of gems but just for the few that I applied it was perfectly easy. Thanks for the review, it had some helpful info that would have made things a little easier when I first used it last night. It is a great little tool!
Alexa B says
I just bought one of these but when I press the button the red light turns on and the tip never heats up! Any idea of what I might be doing wrong?
Jenny says
Alexa- you have to keep holding the button down- it will take 15 seconds or so to heat up, and then you have to hold it to the crystal for about 10 seconds to get it warm enough to melt the glue. Of course, you should NOT touch the tip to see if it’s hot! : ) -Jenny
Carol says
If I’m affixing crystals to tulle (wedding veil) will the glue go through the fabric and onto the table? Or if I put waxed paper or alum foil under the fabric, will that prevent the problem?
Jenny says
That is an excellent question. I’d get a scrap of tulle and check- and if it DOES go through, I’d suggest getting a non-stick craft mat (like the one from Hot Glue Gun Helpers: http://www.crafttestdummies.com/craft-product-reviews/craft-product-review-hot-glue-gun-helpers/
It will not only keep crystals from sticking to the surface, but also protect your worktable from high heat. Good luck!
K. Wright says
Thats great to know! Thank you. I’m planning on buying a heat setter. Which do you use for your larger projects?
Miranda says
If I don’t have the I-rock rhinestones that come with the Glam it up kit, will my different brand of rhinestones still work?
Jenny says
Absolutely! Any hot-fix crystal will work, provided you have the right size tip.
Alyce says
I am trying to use my imaginative I rock tool. No luck. I changed batteries, watched utube and was ready to go. It wasn’t. What else do I do?
Jenny says
Alyce- is it actually heating up? Turn it on and see if it will melt the side of a crayon. If not, then return it to where you bought it. :/