What Items Can I Embellish with Rhinestone Flatbacks?

Manufacturers have made sparkling rhinestones since the late 1600s when glassmakers began creating leaded glass. Since then, the use of crystalline products has expanded from jewelry to fashion and home decor. In fact, rhinestone flatbacks can add sparkle to just about anything and everything.

How Can I Use Crystal Rhinestones?

Many people have seen rhinestone jewelry. You’ll find rhinestone earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and even tiaras crafted from these glittering fake gems. Most of the time, craftsmen use clear crystal in these pieces to imitate diamonds. Usually, it’s difficult to see the difference between real gems and a quality imitation without examining the piece.

However, rhinestone jewelry is only one way to use crystal rhinestones. Modern popular applications also include formal wear like wedding dresses. Luxurious and romantic, glittering rhinestones can help you look and feel stunning.

Yet, you can also attach rhinestones to everyday clothing to create a fashion style. Adding bling to jeans transforms them from every day to sophisticated chic. While a rhinestone tee shirt can proclaim your message or elevate your style with eye-catching sparkle and elegance. Footwear is another popular fashion item you can bling. You can add rhinestones to sneakers, boots, and sandals to create your unique fashion style.

Furthermore, you can glue rhinestones to many other objects:

• Sunglasses
• License plate frames
• Phone cases
• Christmas ornaments
• Candlesticks/votive holders
• Coffee mugs
• Barrettes
• Key fobs
• Water bottles
• Hats
• And more!

​Some rhinestone artists have even blinged out cars!

Best Glue for Rhinestone Flatbacks

One of the supplies you’ll need when starting a bling project is rhinestone glue. You have several options to pick depending on your object. For instance, some materials have a smooth surface while others are porous. This difference in the surface will help determine the best glue to use to attach rhinestones.

For example, manufacturers make many common objects from plastic, silicone, and vinyl. You may find key fobs, phone cases, and sunglasses made from these materials. Other materials with smooth surfaces include leather, metal, and ceramics.

Yet, you can still glue rhinestones to these surfaces to create beautiful, unique pieces by using the right adhesive. Some popular choices include:

• Gem Tac
• E6000
• CG500
• SuperTite

Some of these glues may have 2 parts requiring mixing before applying but all form permanent bonds with smooth surfaces. However, always read the manufacturer’s instructions to determine if the glue will work with your bling project.

Are There Different Types of Rhinestones Flatbacks?

Usually, manufacturers use one of 3 materials to make rhinestones: plastic, glass, or crystal. You can find flatbacks in any of these materials. However, not all glues are suitable for plastic rhinestones as some adhesives can cause discoloration. Moreover, the amount of sparkle will vary with each kind.

1. Plastic

These are the least expensive type of rhinestone with the least amount of sparkle. Manufacturers either inject or compress plastic into molds to form these embellishments. You’ll find several variations of plastic rhinestones:

• Acrylic
• Jelly
• Resin

2. Glass
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Generally, glass rhinestones offer more sparkle and brilliance than plastic embellishments with brighter colors and sharper edges. Glass is also more durable than plastic and less prone to scratches.

3. Crystal

Although crystal is a type of glass, it is clearer with more sparkle due to the addition of certain compounds. Crystal rhinestones are the highest quality material producing the greatest sparkle.

FAQs About Rhinestone Flatbacks

Creating rhinestone projects is an exciting and enjoyable way to add glitter and sparkle. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about flatback rhinestones.

How Do I Determine the Perfect Rhinestone Size for My Bling Project?

Rhinestone sizes can be confusing! Typically, manufacturers and retailers list rhinestones in stone size or “ss”. Generally, the larger the number, the bigger the rhinestone. Most rhinestone sellers have the accompanying millimeter size listed along with the ss size.

What Is the Best Brand of Crystal Rhinestone Flatbacks?

A few years ago, Swarovski was the premier name for rhinestones. However, in 2021, the company removed its rhinestones business from general retail to work solely with luxury brands. One Swarovski alternative is the Preciosa brand with over 500 years of crystal-making tradition. Preciosa’s Maxima line offers a lead-free crystal with a refractive index equal to leaded crystal. Plus, Maxima has 15-18 pristine cut facets in a multitude of colors.

Where Can I Buy Rhinestones Online?

Since 2011, Rhinestones Etc. has been supplying rhinestones to dancers, skaters, crafters, and businesses. We offer competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and very fast processing times on Preciosa Maxima and PriceLess Rhinestones.

Browse our online store to find the perfect crystal rhinestone color for your project.