What Do I Need to Know About Loose Glitter?

I have—on more than one occasion—been called the glitter queen. I just love to add bling to almost every project imaginable. Add a touch of glitter to a simple project, and it will exude some personality.

So many colors of glitter exist that you will never have them all! Start with the ones you really love and add others to your collection as you find them along your journey. The varieties will amaze you and unlock new options for your projects:

• Neon glitter
• Glow-in-the-dark glitter
• Matte glitter
• Hologram glitter
• Transparent glitterMost companies that sell loose glitter have both a color chart and a size chart so that you can select the right glitter for your project. You can buy loose glitter in small containers or sets of containers; the latter is more economical.

  What Are the Different Types of Glitter?

  • Ultra Fine: This glitter will float in the air if you throw it. It is like fairy dust. There is an opalescent ultra fine that is nearly invisible until it hits the light. Crystalina ultra fine is opaque glitter that reflects color in a different way. You have to get up close and personal to see this glitter. This is the type of glitter used on nails, so you should be able to find it almost anywhere
  • Extra Fine: This is available in a wide range of colors and has excellent coverage. It carries a beautiful delicate sparkle. It can have a similar shine and coverage, but it's available at a lower price than the ultra-fine glitter.
  • Fine: Probably the most used of all the glitters. It covers well, has plenty of shine, and is very economical. It is easier to clean up than the ultra-fine and fine glitters. But it has less glitz than the ultra fine and the fine.
  • Medium: This glitter is meant to be seen from a farther distance. It's available in a limited range of colors, but the price point on this glitter is very good.
  • Large: Large glitter is not generally used in paper applications. It would be used more on floats than on pages.

    Types of Glues for Loose Glitter

    • Clear or Tacky Glue: You probably have what you need in your stash.
    • Spray Glues: Anything that dries clear will work. There is also a specific glitter glue spray. Whatever you use, always remember to use spray glues in a well-ventilated area.
    • White Glue or Mod Podge: most common glue for glittering
    • Double-Sided Tape: comes in many sizes

    Use a large sheet of scrap paper in the area below the project where you are using loose glitter. That way, you can gather any leftover glitter. Create a funnel to get all the glitter back into the container.