 What Is the Difference Between Glass and Crystal Rhinestones?The difference between glass and crystal rhinestones is like the difference between wine glasses. For example, drinking from a Waterford Crystal goblet is an opulent experience. The crystal-clear clarity of the goblet and the play of light along its surfaces are visually stimulating. For elegance and luxury, the choice is crystal clear. The same is true for bedazzling gems. With flat faceted surfaces to reflect light, both produce sparkle. However, crystal rhinestones have a higher refractive index, resulting in greater light reflection. Additionally, crystal has a higher dispersion index than glass, giving it a prismatic effect. Isn't Crystal a Color?Indeed, it is, and that’s where some confusion can arise. When you’re referring to crystal as a rhinestone color, you’re talking about the clear bedazzling gem. There’s also a clear crystal with the rainbow coating called Crystal AB, as well as many other colors. The color name doesn't correspond to the material the manufacturer uses to make the flatback jewel. If you’re shopping for rhinestones, it’s important to determine the material the manufacturer uses to produce its bedazzling crystal gems. Actually, crystal is a form of glass. Manufacturers make crystal by mixing glass components with lead. In doing so, the glass becomes clearer and inherits a higher level of refraction as well as a prismatic effect. However, due to safety concerns about lead, some crystal manufacturers substitute other minerals in place of it. Many of these lead-free crystals have similar refraction and prismatic qualities to leaded crystal. Have you ever played with a prism as a child? Light enters the prism, bends, and exits the prism as a rainbow. Crystal has the same effect on light as a prism. This is why crystal chandeliers produce rainbows on nearby walls. How Does the Rhinestone Quality Compare?Generally, crystal is harder and denser than glass. This allows manufacturers to precision cut facets into the surface of the rhinestone. Glass becomes brittle as it hardens, making it harder to cut. Typically, this is why you’ll find that crystal faux gems have more facets than glass rhinestones. In particular, the top name brands, Swarovski and Preciosa, manufacture lead-free crystal with the highest number of facets. These lead-free rhinestones have all the sparkle and brilliance of leaded crystal. Swarovski’s Xirius has 16 facets, while Preciosa’s Maxima has 15. The number of facets in glass rhinestones varies by manufacturer, but generally are between 8-11 facets. The Importance of the Number of Rhinestone Facets and the ArrangementLight reflects off of flat surfaces. Thus, the great the number of flat surfaces or facets a rhinestone has, the greater amount of light it reflects. Moreover, the arrangement of the facets along the surface affects the dispersion and reflection of light. As light hits the surface of a rhinestone, the facets reflect some of the light back to the viewer. Some of the light enters the rhinestone, bounces inside, bends, and exits out the top. This bending of the light results in the prismatic effect as the crystal spits white light into colors. The number of facets and the angles determines light’s performance and visibility.  Should I Use Glass or Crystal Rhinestones for my Project?Glass is cheaper to produce than crystal. Therefore, crystal rhinestones are more expensive than glass bedazzling gems. In some instances, you may want the highest quality rhinestone product. For example, jewelry projects or formal wear like a wedding gown may require brand-name crystal gems. Other times, you may want less expensive glass bedazzling jewels.
At Rhinestones Etc., customer service is our top priority. With fast processing and competitive pricing, we want to be your source for bling. Browse our online store for a great selection of crystal rhinestones.
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Ultimate Guide to Rhinestones–Choosing The Best Product
If you are new to bedazzling, you may be confused by all the options. For example, you’ll find different sizes, colors, and manufacturers. We’ve put together this guide to rhinestones to help you find the best faux gems for your project.
A Brief Rhinestone History
While there are many faux gem options today, this was not always the case. Once upon a time, rhinestones were a naturally occurring resource. Gem hunters found naturally occurring sparkling quartz along the banks of the Rhine River, one of Europe’s greatest waterways.
​ Eventually, this natural resource became depleted. Glassmakers began experimenting with ingredients and production, eventually learning to create bedazzling gems. Today, there are many different manufacturers of crystal rhinestones as well as acrylic and glass faux gems. ​ Rhinestone Categories
Ultimately, people like and use bedazzling jewels because of their sparkle. However, due to the nature of the raw ingredients, faux gems offer varying amounts of sparkle:
Generally, crystal rhinestones have the greatest diamond-like sparkle. Moreover, crystalline products have a prismatic effect, the ability to break up light like a prism. While some crystal faux gems may still contain lead, name-brand rhinestone manufacturers use barium, zinc, or potassium oxide instead. Additionally, manufacturers use different methods to create facets in their products:
​Although molded production methods allow for a higher volume rate, facets are less exact. In contrast, laser cutting offers precise facet creation with sharper edges and precise alignment for optimal light reflection. Finally, rhinestone brands have a varying number of facets arranged along the face of the embellishment. Facets are flat surfaces, geometrically arranged to reflect light. The number of facets on bedazzling gems can range from 8 to 16. 
The 4 C’s To Describe Rhinestone Characteristics
As you sort through your choices, keep in mind these features:
These distinguishing characteristics affect rhinestone’s price and quality. For example, the color should be consistent throughout the embellishment. Furthermore, each batch should reflect a uniform hue without any shade variations. Next, the cut is the number of facets and their arrangement. Typically, the more facets, the greater the light reflection and sparkle. Moreover, symmetrically placed facets ensure the maximum light entering the rhinestone reflects back out. When checking for clarity, your rhinestone should be free from spots, streaks, or bubbles. Finally, contour represents a perfectly shaped flatback faux gem. While the round shape is the most popular, some manufacturers also produce square, rectangular, and triangular profiles. ​ A Guide to Rhinestone Sizing
Originally, when gem hunters found rhinestones, they measured them in “stone sizes” or “ss”. Although the natural product no longer exists, this system of measurement is still in use today.
The smaller the number next to the “ss”, the smaller the flatback faux jewel. Likewise, the larger the number next to the “ss”, the larger the bedazzling gem. Comparatively, the smaller the rhinestone, the more you will need to cover an area. Similarly, the larger the flatback crystal, the less you need to cover an area. Most retailers will also give the millimeter size. Below is a conversion chart from ss to millimeters: ss mm ss mm ss mm 3 1.4 8 2.35 20 4.7 4 1.6 9 2.65 30 6.41 5 1.8 10 2.85 34 7.17 6 2.0 12 3.1 40 8.54 7 2.15 16 3.9 48 11.11 
Recommendations for Rhinestone Glues
There are several aspects to consider when applying rhinestones. For instance, not all surfaces had a composition allowing glue to adhere strongly. Shiny materials like satin, ceramics, or metal fall into this category. Some popular all-purpose rhinestone glues include Gem-Tac or Fabri-Tac.
Other rhinestone glues can ruin the embellishment. For example, the manufacturers of E6000 don’t recommend its use with acrylic faux gems. Always check the glue manufacturer’s recommended usage first. ​ Additionally, a few other glue characteristics can affect the success of your bedazzling project:
How to Attach Rhinestones to Fabric
Gluing rhinestones is the most popular method of attachment, and the method is as follows:
Another method is to use hotfix rhinestones. These are crystal faux gems with glue on the flat side of the embellishment. You can use a hotfix tool, heat press, or iron without steam to adhere them. To attach heat jewel with a hotfix wand, follow these steps:
In a few minutes, the glue will cool and form a secure attachment. However, be careful when placing the rhinestone on the fabric. Too much pressure will cause the hotfix gem to stick in the tip. Another nifty tool is hotfix transfer paper. You can create intricate designs or lettering by laying rhinestones on the sticky side. Then use a heat press or iron without steam to apply. Preciosa recommends a temperature range of 120°C to 200°C (250°F to 390°F) to activate the glue. ​ However, due to a lack of absorbency, some fabrics are not suitable for use with hotfix jewels. These include leather, imitation leather, tightly woven fabrics, or thin fabrics such as organza. Furthermore, manufacturers don’t recommend hotfix with fabrics treated with water repellents, stain-resistant compounds, or easy-to-care treatments. 
Other Methods for Attaching Rhinestones
Two other ways of attaching rhinestones to fabric are sewing and metal settings. Sew-ons are crystals with predrilled holes for sewing. Simply sew the bedazzling gem on with a needle and thread through the holes.
Generally, metal settings are available in Tiffany or rim styles. The difference between the styles is the way the setting grabs the faux gems. Tiffany settings enter from the back of the fabric, with the prongs folding over the rhinestone. Alternatively, rim settings fit over the top of the flatback jewel with the prongs folding on the inside of the fabric. ​ FAQs about Using Rhinestones
​Are you ready to begin a bedazzling project, but have questions? Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about rhinestones.
​ How Many Rhinestones Will I Need?
​When calculating rhinestone amounts, consider the area and placement. For example, are you outlining a shape or covering it?
To create a straight line of rhinestones:
3.9 for 16ss (3.9 is the mm size for 16ss rhinestones) 4.76 for 20ss (4.76 is the mm size for 20ss rhinestones) For a large area covered with rhinestones, use this formula:
42.41 for 16ss rhinestones 29.20 for 20ss rhinestones What Color Rhinestones Should I Use?
Of course, certain hues present a particular appearance. For instance, choosing a contrasting hue offers a pop of color. However, choosing the best rhinestone color is a personal preference.
Not sure what color to use? Popular colors, crystal or crystal AB, are always good choices. Both colors look great with anything. Crystal is a clear bedazzling jewel. While Crystal AB is a clear crystal with an Aurore Borealis (AB) coating, giving the flatback gem a rainbow effect. Additionally, Crystal AB rhinestones pick up and reflect the surrounding color. ​ Where Can I Buy Rhinestones Online?
Since 2011, Rhinestones Etc. has been selling quality rhinestones online. We offer an extensive inventory, fast processing times, and friendly customer service. Browse our online store to find the perfect crystalline product for your bling project.
​  A Basic Description of Different Rhinestone TypesCrystal, glass, acrylic, or plastic. There are many rhinestone types available for purchase today. It wasn’t always so. The original rhinestone was a naturally occurring stone found along the banks of the Rhine River. These sparkling quartz pebbles most likely had a high lead content, making them a highly sought-after prize. As the resource became depleted, glassmakers sought to copy the naturally occurring product. Today, there are different bedazzling jewel manufacturers producing an assortment of colors, sizes, and shapes. If this is your first-time shopping for crystal flatback gems, it can be confusing when looking at all the choices. A Brief History of Brand Name Rhinestone ManufacturersGlass craftsmen sought to imitate the sparkle and brilliance of real gemstones, particularly diamonds. In 1715, Bohemian glassmakers introduced the chaton, the world’s first cut crystal stone. Later on, craftsmen coated the back of the crystal with a metal foil. These early rhinestones closely resembled real diamonds in appearance. However, these faux gems were quite expensive as glassmakers needed to cut each one by hand. Almost 200 years later, one enterprising Bohemian glassmaker, Daniel Swarovski, devised a machine that cut crystal faster and more precisely. This new invention cut crystal with unprecedented precision, revolutionizing production. Moving to Austria, he worked hard to turn his product into the premier brand it is today. Meanwhile, the craftsman of Bohemia continued to work independently until 1948. Then, the 25 companies and factories continuing the glassmaking tradition merged into one national company under the name of Preciosa. Today, the name Preciosa, like Swarovski, is synonymous with quality. However, many other companies have sprung up to complete with these giants. These rhinestones may be crystal, glass, or acrylic with less facets. Consumers find these bedazzling jewels appealing due to their much lower price point. ​Do Rhinestones Have Molded or Cut Facets?Facets are the small plane surfaces of the rhinestones. Depending on the manufacturer, companies produce faceted bedazzling jewels from a mold or by cutting. Acrylic bedazzling gems have molded facets. Manufacturers inject acrylic into different shape molds. Typically, glass jewel manufacturers may use molds or cut facets. While crystal gem manufacturers laser-cut facets. One characteristic of quality rhinestones is the number of facets, and these vary by manufacturer. The more facets, the greater the reflection of light. The Swarovski Xirius has the greatest number of facets of any brand, with 16. Preciosa’s Maxima has either 15 or 18 facets, depending on the crystal size. Some of the other lesser-known brands may have 10 facets. Typically, acrylic flatback gems have only 8 facets. Note: Swarovski has removed itself from the retail market and now only sells to luxury brands. Acrylic, Glass, or Crystal RhinestonesCrystal rhinestones are the most expensive but also the most diamondlike. In the past, manufacturers made crystal by adding lead to glass. Today, many companies use barium instead because of the toxicity of lead. At any rate, mixing glass with one of these ingredients leads to higher refraction of light. Thus, when light hits the crystal, it acts as a prism, breaking light up into a myriad of colors. Both Swarovski and Preciosa produce lead-free crystal gems. Made from plastic, acrylic rhinestones are lead-free. They are also the cheapest option and are great for crafting projects. Glass bedazzling jewels fall somewhere in between acrylic and glass. The quality of glass rhinestones varies depending on the manufacturer. Various Rhinestone Types Are Available in Many Colors and ShapesWhichever flatback gem you decide to buy, you’ll find a large selection of rhinestone colors to choose from. Both Swarovski and Preciosa produce a considerable selection of choices and routinely add new hues to their collections. Moreover, some manufacturers make animal print, ceramic, or marble rhinestones. Additionally, rhinestone shapes are almost as varied as the color selection. While round is the most popular shape, you’ll also find square, rectangle, triangle, heart, pear, as well as many others. Moreover, all these shapes are available in different gem sizes. Ranging from tiny .9mm to large 18.22 mm, rhinestone sizes depend on the manufacturer. Rhinestones Are Extremely VersatileAll rhinestones come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them extremely versatile. Throwing a girl’s princess party? Some colorful acrylic bedazzling jewels provide inexpensive bling. Prom time and your budget is slim? Browse the racks at the thrift store and give your fashion discovery a boost of sparkle with rhinestones.
Not sure where to begin with faux gems? At Rhinestones Etc., we can help you find the right rhinestone in the right size and color. Explore our extensive collection of quality bedazzling jewels to find your sparkle.  DIY: How to Bedazzle a Shirt Using Rhinestones for ClothingEmbellished shirts are expensive, but cheap plain shirts tend to be boring. However, for most of us, our budget says buy the boring plain shirt. After you learn how easy and cheap it is to bedazzle a shirt, you’ll be happy buying that ordinary, solid color shirt. The t-shirt used in this project was one I found on clearance for $4.00, and the stencil I found at the dollar store. For this project, I used:
​Easy Steps to Bedazzle a ShirtWash and dry your shirt. Because I like my designs to be somewhat symmetrical, I like to mark with chalk the position of the designs. Chalk works great because you can brush off your marks if you need to make a change and it easily washes out.  Once I marked out the position of my design, I was ready to paint. You can use a shirt board If you have one; place it on the inside of the shirt. Usually, I just use a piece of thick cardboard I have laying around. Using the chalk marks, position your stencil and apply the fabric paint using a paint brush. Either a foam brush or a regular paint brush works fine.  Remove the stencil and clean it off before repositioning it. When you are done painting, allow to dry completely. I chose the rhinestone color of black diamond because I liked how it reflected off the black of the shirt and yet didn’t overpower the gold color of the stencil designs. Again, I marked with chalk the design of the rhinestones.  If the material to the t-shirt is thin, you may want to leave the shirt board in place when gluing or place a piece of wax paper on the inside of the shirt. To glue your rhinestones, place a drop of glue slightly smaller than the rhinestone on the shirt. Then, using your wax tipped tool or tweezers, pick up a flatback gem and gently press it into the glue drop. Continue gluing until your design is complete. Allow to dry flat for 24 hours.  How much do you think you’d pay in retail for this shirt? At least $25. But by doing it yourself, you can bedazzle a shirt for $10-$15, depending on the brand of rhinestones you choose to use. You’ll feel trendy and stylish while keeping to your budget.
For all your bling needs, shop Rhinestones Etc. We offer PriceLess and Preciosa crystal rhinestones at competitive prices.  Applying Rhinestones: Different Application MethodsOften, we associate sparkling gemstones with Hollywood glamour or the lives of the rich and famous. There’s something about the play of light upon the facets that attract and enchant us. While most of us can’t afford designer clothing, we can easily alter store purchases with sparkling flatback crystals. Bedazzling jewels add a bit of glamour at a reasonable price. Moreover, applying rhinestones to clothing isn’t as hard as you might think. No matter how you use them, crystals add a touch of elegant sparkle. Have a plain shirt? Bedazzle it with rhinestones for a dressy casual look. Upcoming wedding? Bling out your wedding invitations. Don’t know what to give your best friend for Christmas? Deck out a coffee mug or mittens with crystals. The Best Glue for Rhinestones Depends on the SurfaceTypically, the most popular method to attach rhinestones is to use an adhesive. Your choice of glue depends on your surface and the bedazzling jewels. The substrate, or surface you’re gluing to, can be porous or smooth, heavy or lightweight. Thus, some adhesives work better on certain surfaces. Beacon’s Gem-Tac is a great all-purpose glue. The manufacturer recommends this glue for fabric, wood, suede, glass, vinyl, and metal. It’s easy to apply, dries clear, and is washable. E6000 is another adhesive suitable for just about any type of surface. The manufacturer recommends it for all the same surfaces as Gem-Tac plus plastic, tile, ceramic, cement, rubber, leather, and Styrofoam. However, this glue is a bit harder to work as it is thicker, harder to apply, and dries quickly. There are applicator tips for E6000 that you can buy separately. We like to squeeze a bit out over a paper plate and use a toothpick to apply the glue. Once the glue starts to become tacky, simply squeeze out a bit more. This glue dries quickly, and you must use it in a well-ventilated area. While most adhesives are safe to use, some manufacturers don’t recommend their product for use with acrylic rhinestones. Both Beacon’s Fabri-Tac and E6000 advise against using their glue for use with these types of rhinestones. Always check the glue manufacturer’s instructions and the supplier of your rhinestones for the best adhesive to use.  How to Glue Rhinestones onto FabricThe most important aspect of gluing rhinestones on fabric is using enough glue. One of the most frustrating aspects of bedazzling clothing is rhinestones falling off during washing. This always occurs with an improper gluing technique. To properly glue bedazzling gems, you need a drop of glue about the same size as the rhinestone. When you place the crystal in the glue, some adhesive should seep out from the sides. This creates a seal, firmly attaching the flatback jewel to the fabric and preventing it from peeling off. Since all rhinestone fabric glues dry clear, the only thing you’ll see is the sparkle. Hotfix Rhinestones Have Glue On Their BackingHotfix rhinestones have flat backs with an adhesive already on their flat or backside. When you heat the glue to a temperature between 250-340° F, you can apply it to form a permanent bond. Some fabrics may be unsuitable for ho fix application. These types of textiles include tightly woven fabrics, thin fabrics like organza, or real and imitation leather. If you’re not sure if you can use hotfix crystals on your fabric, you can perform the pearl test. Place several drops of water on the material. Fabric that has water that pearls is not suitable for hotfix application. On the other hand, you can use heat-activated gems on fabrics that absorb the water drops quickly.  Other Methods for Applying RhinestonesTwo other ways of attaching crystals are sewing and metal settings. Sew-on crystals have predrilled holes for attaching to fabric. Simply sew the bedazzling gem on with a needle and thread through the predrilled holes. Rose Montees are rhinestones set in a metal setting. The setting has a cross channel on the back for sewing or stringing wire through.  Metal settings give your rhinestones an extra secure hold with a decorative element. Tiffany settings have the prongs come through the back of the fabric to attach the rhinestone. Whereas rim settings frame the gem with the prongs going through the fabric from the top. Rose pins are crystals attached to metal settings.  Add Rhinestones For A Touch of GlamourAs you can see, there are several methods of applying rhinestones. Some projects allow for different ways to affix them. Begin by thinking about the project you are working on. If you’re planning on using adhesive for attaching your rhinestones, check the glue manufacturer’s suggested use.
Of course, we'd love to be your source for rhinestones. With discount pricing, fast shipping, and great customer service, Rhinestones Etc. can help you with your crystal needs. Browse our online store to find the perfect bedazzling gems for your project.  The Beginner’s Guide to Rhinestone SizesAre you new to using bedazzling crystals? Then you may be scratching your head over rhinestone sizes. While jewelers use carats, faux gem manufacturers use something called “ss”. If you’re not familiar with this measurement, you may have difficulty determining which size you need. Many years ago, rhinestones were a naturally occurring resource found along the banks of the Rhine River in Europe. Sparkling quartz pebbles, prospectors measured these according to their stone size. Later, this measurement became shortened to ss. Over time, this natural resource became depleted. However, people loved their gemstones, so manufacturers found a way to produce them in the factory. Today, many manufacturers produce different rhinestone sizes, but they still use the ss measurement. Which Rhinestone Size Should I Use For My Project?Manufacturers vary in the variety of sizes they produce. While they all use the ss measurement system, some companies have a larger selection of rhinestones sizes. Some produce only the most popular sizes such as 12ss, 16ss, and 20ss. Others, like Swarovski, create crystals from the tiniest 3ss size to the large 40ss size. The smaller the number next to the “ss”, the smaller the rhinestones. For example, a size 6ss rhinestone is about the size of a head of a pin. A size 34ss is slightly larger than an eraser on a pencil. Until you become familiar with the variations, it can be confusing. Thus, most companies will list the millimeter size alongside the “ss” size. Which size you should use depends on the type of project you’re working on. Small size crystals are perfect for nail design. Rhinestone nails are very trendy and fashionable. After applying nail polish, use nail glue and topcoat to secure the rhinestones onto your fingernails. Typically, costume designers like to use bigger rhinestones on dance and skating apparel. Generally, using big crystals will give you a flashier shine. Incorporating several different sizes allows for a serendipitous, unforeseen play of light. Sometimes you may need very specific sizes. Many people like to bling out the Nike symbol on their sneakers. To do so requires a very specific set of rhinestones. Rhinestone Sizes - Stone Size to Millimeter Conversion ChartWhen determining the best size for your project, it’s helpful to know the millimeter size. Most suppliers offer a rhinestone conversion chart. For your convenience, below is a reference diagram comparing ss to millimeters:
ss mm ss mm ss mm 3 1.4 8 2.35 20 4.7 4 1.6 9 2.65 30 6.41 5 1.8 10 2.85 34 7.17 6 2.0 12 3.1 40 8.54 7 2.15 16 3.9 48 11.11 Another aspect to consider when ordering rhinestones is the area you’re planning to cover. Although larger bedazzling gems are more expensive, they do cover a larger area than smaller crystals. Fewer rhinestones also means less work for you. Adding rhinestones to clothing, shoes, or nails adds explosions of light. Bedazzling jewels grab your attention with each twinkle of a facet, demanding attention. Undoubtedly, this is why so many fashion designers use them. Rhinestones Etc. has a large selection of sparkling, bedazzling gems for all your bling needs. Browse our online store to find your color and size.  A Quick Guide: How to Apply Rhinestones to FabricAdding rhinestones to any type of clothing adds a bedazzling effect. With every movement, the crystal gems send out a shimmer of light. Yet, bedazzled clothing is expensive. However, once you see how easy it is to apply rhinestones to fabric, you’ll be blinging out most of your wardrobe. You can attach bedazzling jewels to many objects:
Rhinestones add sparkle to every object you add them to. However, it can be very intimidating the first time you try to glue them. Many first-timers are concerned about using too much glue or placing crystals in the wrong position. Once you learn the technique you need to follow, you’ll see how easy it is to bedazzle clothing. Choose the Right Rhinestones GlueThe most popular type of rhinestone is the non-hot fix, also known as the flatback. To some, this term can be confusing because hotfix and sew-on gems also have a flat back. Yet, manufacturers generally refer to flatback jewels as those needing glue or settings to attach them. Settings are pieces of metal with prongs to hold the rhinestone on the fabric. You bend the prongs around the crystal to hold it in place. However, using glue is the most popular option for applying bedazzling gems. First, you need to select an adhesive. There are different rhinestone adhesives on the market. Your choice will depend on the object you’re blinging. For instance, some glues work better on leather or glass. If you’re blinging a coffee mug or sneakers, you may want to use E 6000. This industrial-strength glue is great for a variety of surfaces:
However, this glue tends to be gloppy and hard to apply. Plus, the manufacturer doesn’t recommend using it with acrylic rhinestones. When applying bedazzling jewels to fabric, you may want to use Gem-Tac. You can use this glue on an assortment of surfaces:
This glue is much easier to use to bedazzle clothing and makes applying rhinestones a snap. It’s our favorite glue to use on fabric. Whichever adhesive you choose, be sure the manufacturer recommends it for use on fabric, it's washable, and dries clear.  The Technique To Apply Rhinestones to FabricWhile choosing the right glue is important, there is also a technique for permanently attaching rhinestones. An improper gluing technique may cause your bedazzling gems to fall off, especially when you launder the garment. When applying rhinestones to fabric, it’s very important to use enough glue. Often, first-timers use too little glue, fearing the adhesive will be visible. However, all glues for use with faux gems dry clear. To begin with, pre-wash and dry your garment before you start gluing. Lay the garment as flat as possible. Sheer or thin fabrics may require a piece of wax paper between the layers of fabric. This prevents the glue from seeping through and inadvertently gluing layers together. The drop of glue should be about the size of the rhinestone. After you press the bedazzling jewel into the glue, the glue should seep out from the edges. This makes a seal that helps keep the rhinestone from peeling off. One of the most common reasons for crystals falling off is the lack of a glue seal. After you finish gluing all your rhinestones to your garment, always let it dry flat for 24 hours before wearing. While some glues set in 10 minutes, it takes 24 hours for all glues to dry completely.  You’ll Need a Tool for Picking Up the RhinestonesYou’ll also need a tool for picking up the rhinestones. Many people use tweezers and these make an adequate tool. However, the glue will build up on the edges requiring frequent wiping. Moreover, be careful not to squeeze the tweezers too tightly, or your flatback gems may go flying off. Another tool is a wax tipped tool. The wax end easily picks up different types of embellishments including rhinestones. When you press the flatback jewel into the glue drop, the bedazzling gem detaches from the tool. There are many variations of this implement, from cheap to expensive. Finding the Best Rhinestones for Your ProjectBedazzling jewels are available in different types. You can buy acrylic, glass, and crystal rhinestones. Generally, you’ll want to use cheaper flatback gems where the quality isn’t as important, like a children’s craft project. Likewise, you may want to use the more expensive brand-name rhinestones for more important occasions like a wedding. Plus, there are many good quality middle-of-the-road flatback rhinestones.
You can find many quality choices at Rhinestones Etc. With fast shipping, competitive pricing, and excellent customer service, we want to be your source for bling supplies. Explore our beautiful collection of bedazzling gems to find your perfect size and color.  Turn an Altered Altoid® Tin into a Bedazzled Jewelry CarrierAltoid® mints come in a cute little tin. The latest crafting rage is to recycle these tins into cute scenes or children’s travel play sets. There are many media to choose from to cover your tin: paper, fabric, and/or clay. I wanted an altered tin that was both beautiful and practical. When I travel, I never have a place to carry an extra pair of earrings. So, I set out to make a bedazzled jewelry carrier out of my Altoid® tin. For this project, I used:
How to Make an Altered Altoid® TinMix the gold with raw sienna until you get a rustic bronze color. Cover the lid and sides with a thin layer of clay making sure you can still open and close the lid. Using the gold clay, roll out some vines and position these on the lid. Shape some small leaves and place these along the leaves.  Finger prints can be problematic and distract from the beauty of the case. Therefore, simply brush the clay surface with a 50/50 mixture of alcohol and water with a paint brush. The alcohol “melts” the clay and smooths the surface. Bake in a 275-degree oven for 15 minutes then remove and let cool. After the clay is cool, brush the vines and leaves with modge podge. Sprinkle the clear glitter on and let dry. Fold the scrap material right sides together. Sew up the 2 longer edges of the 3 open edges. Turn inside out. Sew lengthwise evenly spaced so that you have 3 pockets. Stuff each pocket with pillow stuffing.  Once stuffed, turn the remaining edges to the inside and stitch the ends together. Place inside the tin. Glue several 20ss Dorado rhinestones scattered along the top of the tin using Gem Tac. Squeeze a drop of glue slightly smaller than the rhinestone. Using a tweezer or wax tipped tool, pick up a rhinestone and gently press it into the glue drop. Glue alternating 12ss and 20ss Dorado rhinestones along the side edge of the lid, spacing about 1/4 inch apart. Lastly, let the finished case dry for 24 hours without any further handling.   Tins are fun to recycle, and gluing on rhinestones adds to the fun. You can experiment with different styles and designs to come up with the perfect altered Altoid® tin for you. Finally, these tins are the perfect way to store and safely carry jewelry on a trip. For all your bling needs, shop Rhinestones Etc. We have PriceLess and Preciosa crystal products at competitive prices. Discover your color and size by exploring our online store.
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