People and techniques: episode 2, The hotfix technique
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People and techniques: Goretti’s hands
Here comes a new episode of our series ‘People and Techniques’, focused on exploring the distinctive techniques which make Goretti’s products unique. In each episode we dive into the work of our pattern and production departments, discovering the passion that their teams put in their creations.
If you missed the first episode on ‘Embroidery and Sewing’, you can read it here.
The hotfix technique: a masterpiece of elegance and precision
Today we will discover one of the most iconic techniques employed by Goretti: the hotfix technique.
The technique—which consists in applying studs and rhinestones through heat-sealing—can add a refined and glamorous touch to any kind of product, be it a shoe, a garment, or a leather item. Thanks to the precise application of rhinestones, every element shines bright, creating luminous effects able to catch the eye and enhance the product design on its whole.
The hotfix technique is an expression of Goretti’s excellence, the result of years of experience and innovation. Through the years, we customised our techniques and developed a flexible approach in order to be able to meet our customers’ various needs, both in terms of quality and quantity. This relentless effort allows us to maintain high standards and keep up with the fashion market demands.
The various steps of the hotfix technique: from drawing to pressing
Precision and concentration are essential in every step of our work, from the selection of rhinestones to their final application. Our warehouses contain a wide range of high-quality rhinestones, including rhinestones from renowned brands like Swarovski, Preciosa and Korean MC Quality rhinestones. Every step of the process, from the initial preparation to the final realisation, requires meticulous attention. In particular, extreme accuracy is needed when placing every single rhinestone, as to ensure that every component is perfectly inserted in the desired space.
Even the slightest inaccuracy in the positioning can negatively affect the final result, compromising the harmony and the overall aspect of the product. That’s why we closely monitor every step of the production process. Here are the main ones:
Technical drawing: rhinestones are positioned according to a technical drawing, using templates to ensure a precise placement
Creation of transfer tapes: rhinestones are brushed into the templates to create transfer tapes. The operation is repeated several times to deal with rhinestones of different colours and sizes
Pressing: the transfer tape is placed on the fabric and pressed using one of the 55 presses (all of different dimensions) at Goretti’s disposal. In this way, we can optimise production times.
Finishing: after the pressing, a final check is carried out to ensure the excellent quality of every single rhinestone.
Interview with Cristina and Lucia: the heart of the hotfix technique at Goretti
To fully understand the excellent skills hiding behind the hotfix technique, we had a chat with Cristina, pattern maker, and Lucia, operator. Their daily collaboration is essential to turn every project into reality.
Cristina
Pattern maker
Lucia
Team Operator
How long have you been working at Goretti?
‘On 4th September I celebrated my 12-year anniversary at the company.’
What do you find most fascinating about the hotfix technique?
‘I am fascinated by the sparkle and accuracy from which amazing ensembles of colours and shapes come to life! This technique allows you to shape every single detail of an image, be it abstract or figurative. When I work with rhinestones I like combining colours, sizes and shapes to achieve the best possible result. This makes my job extremely rewarding.
What sentence does Lucia tell you most often at the phone?
‘I often hear her say ‘Cristinaaaa… Come here!’ and I immediately know that something is requiring my attention. I like helping Lucia with her tasks. We learnt a lot from each other and we often join our forces to overcome technical problems which initially seemed impossible to solve.’
How do you feel when you see one of your projects finished and worn by someone in important fashion or star system events?
‘I feel proud and satisfied. I know that my work bears my signature: every product is unique and nobody else would have made it in the same way. Every product that we create adds a touch of beauty to this world.’
How long have you been working at Goretti?
‘I have been working at Goretti for 15 years.’
Which step of the hotfix technique do you prefer taking care of?
‘I like every step, they are all fascinating in their own way.’
What do you tell Cristina most often at the phone?
‘We usually talk about the issues that could arise while working on the samples. It’s a constant exchange of ideas and solutions.’
Would you be curious to try using the technical software of the pattern department and carry out the first steps of the process?
‘Of course I would be curious! But I have to admit that I’m not very IT-skilled. I prefer manual works, like the one I do every day.’
Creativity and precision: the secret of the hotfix technique
Applying studs and rhinestones through heat-sealing requires a constant and accurate control. Thanks to the collaboration between our different departments, we are able to offer top-notch applications, able to meet the needs of even the most demanding fashion brands.
