Setting Liquid for Shaping - Tutorial on Basic Techniques for Flat Velvet Style Ronghua(Velvet Flowers)

February 11, 2024

When making Ronghua(Velvet Flowers), silk sizing or fabric setting liquid is commonly used for shaping the velvet petals. Alternatively, you can use hairspray, gel water, or setting liquid. The mentioned products can be used directly without dilution.

If none of the above products are available for you, white glue can also be used for shaping. However, when using white glue as a setting liquid, it needs to be diluted with water. The recommended ratio for white glue to water is approximately 1:3.

During the process of shaping Ronghua(Velvet Flowers), it’s advisable to wear a mask to avoid inhaling any fumes.

There are generally three methods for shaping Ronghua(Velvet Flowers):

1.Direct Spray Method: Spray the petals directly with setting liquid. Be cautious with this method, as improper handling may cause the velvet to become frizzy. Usually, the following two methods are preferred.

2.Immersion Method: Pour a portion of the setting liquid into a small container. Immerse the velvet petals directly in the solution, then drain off any excess liquid.

3.Brush Application Method: Use a brush to apply setting liquid gently onto the velvet petals.

Today, we’ll focus on the third method(Brush Application Method) as an example, explaining the process of applying setting liquid to Ronghua(Velvet Flowers):

1.Preparea small bottle of setting liquid, a brush, and an embossing pad. Place a thin layer of silicone cushion on the embossing pad (as shown in Figure 1).

Figure 1

2.Brush the flattened velvet petals with setting liquid. Ensure that the entire petal is thoroughly saturated (as shown in Figure 2).

Figure 2

3.Place the petals with applied setting liquid on a sponge pad to air dry. You can either lay the petals flat on the sponge pad or insert one end of a brass wire into the pad, as long as the petals do not stick together.