Before you iron
Seat every bead firmly. Use proper ironing paper (or the sheet from a Perler/Hama pack) — parchment can melt or stick. Use a dry iron (no steam) on a hard, heat-safe surface. Leave the pegboard under the beads for the first side.
Heat and motion
Medium heat. Cover with ironing paper and move in slow circles for 10–20 seconds until the bead holes just start to close. Do not park the iron in one spot.
Cool flat and flip
Remove the iron, leave the paper, press a heavy book on top for 5–10 minutes. Peel from the board, flip, paper again, and iron the back lightly so both sides fuse without crushing the shape.
Common failures
- Warping: too hot or cooled without weight — lower heat, longer under the book.
- Holes still open: not long enough — a few more circles, not a hotter setting.
- Paper sticks: wrong paper or excess heat.
- Edges crumble: corner-only contacts — fix the chart in the designer before ironing.
Where to get a chart
Free Perler bead patterns, or make one from a photo with the pattern maker. Workflow: photo to Perler pattern.