6 Tips for Sticking Cabochons the Right Way

For the perfect cabochon jewelry, you need to stick the cabochons or cabs perfectly on the setting. You would not want them to look off center or come off after a while. As the glue used for sticking these pieces is strong, it is difficult to maneuver their position after they have been glued to the base once. Read on to learn the points you need to keep in mind for setting a cabochon impeccably at one go:

1. Cabochons with a flat back are easier to paste. Hence, make sure the ones you plan to purchase do not have an uneven back. Even if you do get a few with a curved back, you can still paste them but you may need to apply more glue than required to compensate for the unevenness.
   
2. The setting where you wish to fix the cabochon like lampwork cabochons and millefiori glass cabochons should be sufficiently big. Pay attention to the measurement of the interior space of the setting. If it is slightly bigger than the base of the cabochon, that is not an issue. Nevertheless, if the setting is smaller, under no circumstances can you fit the cabochon. In case, you are not sure of the right size of the setting for your cabochons, you should ask the seller to guide you accordingly.
3. The quality of the glue matters too. Refrain from using hot glue because it may damage the cabochon. Glues specially meant for sticking embellishments are best. As these adhesives begin to solidify very soon, you need to place the cabochon swiftly on the setting.  
4. Although it depends on your preference, applying glue to the base of the cabochon like polymer clay cabochons and porcelain cabochons instead of on the setting offers a better bond. How much glue you will require depends on its thickness. Never mind, if you have put some extra glue, as it could be wiped off with rubbing alcohol. Knowing the correct quantity of glue required will prevent its wastage.
5. It is important to clean the base of the cabochon before applying glue to it. Dust particles and moisture may not let it stick well. Put some rubbing alcohol in some cotton and rub the base clean. Put the pieces aside until they are dry and then apply glue.
6. After placing the cabochon, you need to give it some time to stick permanently with the setting. Keep the setting upright so that the cab does not slide away and stick off center. 

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