Why Your Glitter Keeps Shedding and How to Seal It
By Crafter's Companion | Craft Supplies | Papercraft & Art | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: How-to Guides
Glitter fallout ruining your crafts? Learn the common causes of glitter shedding and the simple steps to seal it permanently, including tips for glitter washi tape.
Quick answer
Glitter sheds because the adhesive or sealant you used isn't strong enough to lock the particles in place. The fix is to apply a clear, permanent sealant over the glitter and let it cure fully before handling.
Why glitter sheds even after you glue it
Most glitter fallout happens because the adhesive dries too smooth, giving the glitter particles nothing to grip. Loose glitter needs a textured or tacky base layer, while glitter washi tape already has an adhesive backing — but that adhesive can fail if the surface is dusty or oily.
Another common cause is impatience. Even strong sealants need time to cure. If you move or touch the project before the sealant is fully dry, you disturb the bond and create loose flakes.
When to skip the sealant and use a different product
If your project will be handled frequently — like a phone case or a bag — a spray sealant may still wear off over time. In those cases, consider using a UV resin or a thick, brush-on gloss medium instead. These create a hard, durable shell that locks every particle down.
For items that won't be touched, like wall art or shadow boxes, a simple spray sealer or even hairspray can be enough. Match your method to the project's use.
Diagnose and fix glitter shedding
- Symptom: Glitter flakes off when you touch the project, leaving a mess on your hands and surface.
- Likely cause: The adhesive or sealant is too thin, not fully cured, or the surface was dusty or oily before application. Check if your project will be handled often — if yes, skip spray sealants and use a thick resin or gloss medium.
- Corrective action: Apply a clear, permanent sealant (spray or brush-on) over the entire glittered area. Let it cure for the full time recommended on the label — usually 24 hours. For glitter washi tape, run a thin line of clear glue along any cut edges. After curing, test a hidden spot by rubbing gently. If flakes still come off, add a second coat and wait again.
- When to stop or choose another option: If two coats of sealant still don't stop fallout, the glitter or tape may be incompatible with that sealant. Switch to a different sealer type (e.g., from spray to brush-on) or use a product with glitter already embedded, like glitter washi rolls, which shed far less than loose glitter. For maximum durability on high-use items, consider embedding loose glitter in UV resin instead of using adhesive alone.
Product spotlight
- Crafters Companion Washi Rolls - Glitter: Crafter's Companion Glitter Washi Rolls come in five colored rolls on vellum, a translucent material ideal for overlays and lanterns. Because the glitter is pre-applied to washi tape, shedding is less likely than with loose glitter — but sealing the edges with a clear adhesive or sealant still prevents fallout on cut ends.
Crafters Companion Washi Rolls - Glitter
