A glitter particle is not a pigment; it is a laminated flake. Understanding its layers is the difference between a product that sparkles evenly and one that dulls, bleeds colour or fails solvent resistance. A typical craft glitter is built from a polyester (PET) film base, a reflective aluminium layer, a colour layer, and a protective topcoat.
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is the industry default for heat-stable, solvent-tolerant glitter. PVC glitter is cheaper and softer but releases more concern in regulated markets and has lower temperature resistance. For most industrial and cosmetic-adjacent uses, PET is the safer specification.
| Property | PET glitter | PVC glitter |
|---|---|---|
| Heat resistance | Up to ~170–200 °C (typical) | Lower, softens earlier |
| Solvent resistance | Good against common solvents | Weaker, can cloud or curl |
| Regulatory profile | Broadly accepted | Increasingly restricted |
| Cost | Mid | Lower |
Cut shape (hex, square, star, strand) changes how light scatters and how the flake settles. Mesh size — the number of screen openings per linear inch — sets particle diameter: a coarser 1/8" flake reads as chunky sparkle; a fine 1/128" or 1/500" grade reads as a smooth shimmer powder. Choose mesh against the carrier: thick epoxy tolerates coarse flake; thin coatings and printing inks need fine grades to avoid clogging.
Q: Will craft glitter survive outdoors or in solvent-based clear coat?A: PET grades with a sealed topcoat generally do; PVC and poorly coated craft glitter can cloud, curl or lose aluminium reflectivity. Specify solvent resistance for any exterior or automotive application.
Q: Is normal glitter affected by the EU microplastics restriction?A: The REACH restriction on intentionally added microplastics (Regulation (EU) 2023/2055) targets loose, rinse-off and certain solid microplastic uses; it is a key reason we also offer a cellulose-based biodegradable line (see article 13).