Poly VS Craft

YES THERE IS A DIFFERNCE! There are many differences in glitter and choosing the right one can make the difference in your project.

On our BulkGlitters.com website, we sell two distinct types of glitter. First, there is Craft Glitter and second is Polyester Glitter (also known as Poly). Each of these glitters has certain properties that make it both good and bad for certain things. To help you make the right choice please see below. Please read and not just glance at the icons! The research you do can make or break a project.

Polyester or "POLY GLITTER"

Each polyester glitter type has unique properties. The description of each glitter will spell out any limitations it may have. Not all are solvent resistant & not all are cosmetic grade, etc. We offer a QUICK VIEW CHART that can give you some of this data at a glance for Glitter My World brand glitters. If you are using other poly glitter brands, please ask your supplier for their limitations and best uses and TEST them before use.

Many poly glitters (but NOT ALL) can be used for:

Boating and other Fiberglass or Gelcoat applications: Boats, Carnival Ride Cars, Pre-Fab Domes
Fishing Lures
Makeup (Cosmetics): Nail Polish, Body Creams & Lotions, Hair Spray, Glitter Nails, Hair Gels
Making Crayons
Mixed Into Finger Paints
With Fabric Adhesives: decorating clothing. sneakers, pumps
T-Shirts, (silk screened) mixed with Plastisol. (.008 is most popular size)
Clown Makeup
Ceramics (after firing)
Christmas Ornaments and Decorations
Mixed Into Inks & Paints
With Clear Adhesives
Make Glitter Pens (mixed with adhesive)
Rubber Stamp Kits & Greeting Cards
Fabric Printing (Flocking)
Automotive/Cars
Floral Decorations (Artificial, Dry, Live)
Candle Decorating
Flooring
Wallpaper
Posters & Displays
Car Paint
Inside Balloons (metallic & iridescent are best)

Why? Polyester glitter is a very versatile glitter. They can be mixed into things, many are fine with solvents, it is gorgeous, and comes in lots of colors and types. It sparkles more than craft due to the thinnest of the film. It also handles higher heat than craft (most). Many types handle UV exposure which makes it good for floors and outdoor use.
Why Not? Polyester glitter can be expensive! If you can afford to use it and it fits your needs then go for it. Not all polyesters have the same properties. There are limitations! Read the descriptions of each glitter before purchasing and TEST. We are not responsible for incorrect usage, the homework you do will effect your project.

Plastic "CRAFT GLITTER"

All the Glitter My World! brand craft glitters that we sell on our BulkGlitters.com website all have the same properties. However, it is always important to do tests especially if using another brand before beginning a project!

Most craft glitter can be used for:

School Art Projects
Glitter Hats
Parade Floats
Costumes (will not survive multiple washes)
Masks
Theater Sets
Party Decorations
Floral Accents
Children's Crafts
Craft Kits
Signs (Indoors due to sun fade over long periods)
Store Window Displays
Home Decorations
Applied on Glass
Pictures/Mirrors
Walls & Ceilings (Blown on when paint is wet)
Sand Art Alternative
Decorating Shoes (will not survive multiple washes)
Christmas Ornaments
Photo shoot effects
When you need volume (filling spaces or containers)
Inside balloons (not all)

Why Choose Craft Glitter? Craft glitter is super affordable! If you need to do a big project, fill a big space, have a limited budget, then craft glitter is the best way to go. It is 2-5 times less expensive than polyester. Also, the larger flake craft glitters bounce a lot of light, and are super sparkly. If you are viewing your project from a distance then this is a great choice. Fine flake glitters are great up close, but stand far away and that lovely sparkle can fade away.
Why Not? Craft glitter is basically an indoor glitter or limited exposure outdoor glitter. Yes, it will probably survive a Summer outside and some rain downpours. However, if you expect it to do it year after year, you will not be happy. The smallest flake is fine (.015)- go smaller and it stops sparkling and all you see are edges. Plan to wear it on your body or wash a glittered shirt every week? Craft glitter is not a good choice.
Craft glitter does not work with all adhesives and sealers. Even a water based Polyurethane can cause it to clump or bleed. Always test before making any bulk purchase.