FAQs About Double-sided Adhesive

 

1. What is “foil adhesive” and how does it work?
 Foil adhesive usually refers to a sticky medium (tape, glue, or transfer sheet) that transfers foil onto a surface. You apply the adhesive, let it become tacky, then press a foil sheet onto it. The foil sticks to the adhesive and peels off, leaving the metallic finish behind.

2. What types of foil are compatible with adhesives?
 Common types compatible with adhesives include transfer foils / toner-reactive foils and dry adhesive foils. Hot-foil (heat-activated) foils typically require specialised equipment and are less suited to plain adhesive techniques.

3. How do I apply foil using double-sided adhesive?

  • Cut and apply the adhesive (tape or sheet) to your project
  • Remove the top liner to expose the sticky side
  • Place the foil (shiny side up) onto the adhesive
  • Press firmly and smooth out bubbles
  • Gently peel back the foil to leave the metallic layer behind

4. Do I need heat or special tools to use foil adhesives?
 Not always. For many foil adhesives/transfer foils, heat is not required — the adhesive itself does the work. However, for certain foils (especially “hot foils”), heat and pressure tools (like a laminator or foil press) may be required.

5. How long should I wait for liquid adhesive to become tacky?
 That depends on the product. Some adhesives dry until they are tacky (or translucent/milky) before applying foil. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on your specific foil adhesive product.

6. What surfaces can foil adhesives stick to?
 Smooth and non-porous surfaces (paper, cardstock, plastic, coated surfaces) work best. Some adhesive-backed vinyl foils are suitable for decorative surfaces, even outdoors, provided the surface is clean and smooth.

7. How do I avoid wrinkles, bubbles or misalignment in foiling?

  • Work slowly and apply pressure as you go
  • Use a bone folder or burnisher to smooth
  • Start from one edge and gradually adhere
  • Ensure the adhesive layer is even and free of debris

8. Can I cut foil-adhesive sheets using cutting machines (e.g. Cricut)?
 Yes—many adhesive-backed foils or vinyl foils are compatible with electronic cutting machines. Just ensure the material is well adhered and test cuts first.


9. How durable is the foil finish from adhesive methods?
 The finish can be delicate. The metallic layer can scratch or peel with handling, especially if the adhesive bond isn’t strong. Using a clear sealant (spray or varnish) may help protect it.

10. What is the return / defect policy from CraftOnline if a foil or adhesive product is faulty?
CraftOnline states that $9.99 shipping applies to orders under AU$99, free shipping above that in Australia.

For defects: goods with manufacturing defects can be replaced, but the claim must be made within 3 days of receipt, and returns approved beforehand.
For change-of-mind returns (unused & unopened), they allow returns within 30 days but apply a 20% restocking fee, and deduct original shipping costs if “free shipping” was used.