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From earliest times, sparkling gems have captivated our attention. Generally, it was only the nobility or very rich who could afford to have jewelry made from precious stones. So, jewelers sought out alternate cheaper sources to make sparkling jewelry at a lower cost. The discovery of natural rhinestones along the Rhine River provided a supply for a time. When this natural source became depleted, jewelers looked for a way to make them. In the early 1700’s a breakthrough came. A French jeweler by the name of Georg Friedrich Strass developed imitation gems later called rhinestones. He discovered that coating a piece of glass with metal powder created a shimmer in glass, similar to a gemstone. The novelty caught on although the imitations were still very expensive. Cutting each rhinestone by hand was labor intensive. Nonetheless, crafting rhinestones blossomed in Bohemia, now the Czech Republic. Individual skilled artisans honed their craft producing their version of rhinestones. One of these skilled craftsmen, Daniel Swarovski, patented an electric cutting machine. This new machine cut crystal more precisely and quickly than by hand. In 1895, he moved to Austria and opened his own manufacturing plant. Meanwhile, those individual companies in Bohemia eventually merged in 1948 to form the Preciosa brand. Today, there are many other manufacturers of rhinestones in a wide variety of shapes and colors. The Asian markets in particular, produce a large number of quality crystal rhinestones. While there are different brands of rhinestones, they all share some of the same characteristics.  Types of Rhinestones Typically, there are 3 main rhinestone types: crystal, glass or acrylic. Rhinestones manufactured from crystal are the most expensive rhinestones. Primarily, crystal is glass mixed with lead or other components which make it clearer and prismatic. The prismatic effect is the ability to take light and break it up similar to a prism. Because of the safety concerns with lead, Swarovski and Preciosa no longer use lead in making their crystal. Both companies have achieved this without losing any sparkle from the rhinestone. This means that both types of rhinestones are CPSIA compliant and are safe for use with children. Similar to crystal, glass rhinestones have a coating to produce a shimmer in the rhinestone as well as facets. However, glass rhinestones do not have the prismatic quality of crystal. Nevertheless, glass rhinestones typically are precision cut by machine. Occasionally, you may see rhinestones listed as DMC or MC. These rhinestones are Asian machine cut rhinestones and they may be either crystal or glass. Finally, there are the acrylic rhinestones, the most inexpensive of all. Formed from molds, acrylic rhinestones do have facets which produce some sparkle. Acrylic rhinestones are a great choice for children’s crafts because they’re lead-free and very inexpensive. Confused about some of the rhinestone choices? Rhinestones Etc. has a large selection of rhinestones at discount prices. We’ll be glad to answer any questions you have regarding rhinestones. You can contact us here.  Rhinestones Quality is based on Color, Cut, Contour, and Clarity When shopping for expensive gems, jewelers recommend examining a specimen for the 4 C’s: color, cut, clarity, and carat. The grade of each of these components helps determine the gem’s value. Although slightly different, rhinestones also have 4 C’s: color, cut, clarity, contour. Chiefly, there are many different rhinestone colors and your color choice affects the price. Crystal or clear rhinestones are the least expensive. Aurum, a gold rhinestone with a thin coating of 14k gold is the most expensive. However, within each color, the hue, tone, and saturation must be the same for consistency. The trueness and intensity of color must be the replicated throughout. Variations in color are the mark of cheaper rhinestones. Next, cut refers to the facets. Facets are the small plane surfaces cut into the rhinestone that reflect the light. The more facets, the more light reflects and hence the rhinestone has more sparkle. Swarovski makes a rhinestone with the most facets, 16 arranged in a star shape pattern called the Xirius. Preciosa manufactures a rhinestone named Maxima with 15 facets. Other rhinestone manufacturers cut between 8 and 12 facets into their rhinestones. Generally, the more facets, the more expensive the rhinestone. Chiefly, clarity is the lucidity or clearness of the rhinestone. The rhinestone should be free from spots, streaks or bubbles. Any type of cloudiness in the rhinestone is the mark of an inexpensive brand. Finally, contour refers to the consistency of the shape of the rhinestone. Typically, the shape of the rhinestone also determines its price. Round rhinestones are generally the least expensive, while fancy shapes such as baguette, navette, and others more costly. Size also affects the pricing, with rhinestones increasing in price with the size.  Hot Fix Rhinestones One type of rhinestone is the hot fix which has glue attached to the flat side. To adhere, you can use a hot fix tool, iron or heat press. Swarovski, a manufacturer of rhinestones, recommends a temperature range of 250 degrees F – 340 degrees F to activate the glue. If you choose to use an iron, you will need one without steam vents. Irons with vents don’t provide a flat surface and consequently inadequate pressure when applying rhinestones. Also, water and steam can negatively affect the hot fix application. Never slide the iron as this may move the rhinestones. Always press down the iron and lift straight up before applying heat elsewhere. Another way to attach hot fix rhinestones is with a hot fix tool. These tools come with different screw-on tips to accommodate different size rhinestones. To attach, you lay the rhinestones on a flat surface, facet side up. Heat up your tool, then place the tip over the top of the rhinestone. The rhinestone will stick in the cup of the tip. After about 15 seconds, the glue will begin to bubble. Tap the rhinestone onto the fabric and the rhinestone will stick. Don’t press too hard as this can cause the glue to spread and the rhinestone to stick in the cup. Allow the rhinestones to cool, which takes only a few minutes. Unfortunately, there are some fabrics that are just not suitable for hot fix application. These include very tightly woven textiles, smooth leather or smooth imitation leather, and thin fabrics like organza. To check to see if your fabric is suitable for hot fix rhinestones, apply several drops of water. If the fabric absorbs the water droplet quickly, you can use hot fix rhinestones on it. Alternately, if the water pearls, the fabric is not suitable for hot fix rhinestones.  Flat Back Rhinestones Another type of rhinestone is the non-hot fix or commonly referred to flat back. One way to attach flat backs or non-hot fix rhinestones is by gluing. There are a variety of rhinestone glues on the market. Some provide a better bond on certain surfaces than others. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for recommendations. Additionally, some glue manufacturers do not recommend using their product on cheaper rhinestones like acrylics. For example, E6000 is an industrial strength glue that produces a strong bond to smooth surfaces. It works great on metal and glass. Alternately, Gem-Tac is a great fabric glue that’s easy to apply, dries clear and is washable. There are some other adhesives like Swarovski’s 2-part epoxy, Beacon’s Fabri-Tac and such. Just make sure whichever you use, its suitable for rhinestones, dries clear and if gluing to clothes, washable. One of the key components in gluing rhinestones to clothing is the method. Many people use too little glue causing the rhinestone to peel off. It’s very important that some of the glue seeps out the sides of the rhinestone. This forms a seal to keep the rhinestone in place.  Other Methods of Attaching Rhinestones Generally, there are some other ways of attaching rhinestones to fabrics: metal settings and sew-on rhinestones. To begin with, there are 2 types of metal settings, Tiffany and rim. Their basic difference is one secures form the inside of the garment and the other from the outside. In particular, a rim setting surrounds the rhinestone on the right side of the fabric. The prongs pierce and bend on the inside of the garment to secure the rhinestone. Whereas Tiffany settings have metal prongs pierce through to the outside of the fabric to grab the rhinestone. These prongs bend around the rhinestone to hold it into place. Uniquely, sew-on rhinestones have pre-drilled holes in the crystal allowing a needle to pass through. Sew-0n rhinestones are available in a large variety of shapes. Similarly, a Rose Montee is a rhinestone set in a metal setting that has cross channels on the bottom. A needle easily passes through the cross channels thus, making them easy to sew on. Moreover, thin wire can pass through these channels as well, making Rose Montees ideal for jewelry making.  Sizing of Rhinestones Admittedly, the sizing of rhinestones is unique and different. The system goes back to when rhinestones were a natural resource of sparkling quartz. Finders of these sparkling quartz stones grouped them according to their size by dropping them into different size holes. This gave the sparkling quartz a number “stone size“ or “ss”. Larger size sparkling quartz had larger numbers and smaller sized quartz smaller. Even though this natural resource no longer exists, rhinestone manufacturers still use this system of measurement. Usually, retailers of rhinestones will give the equivalent millimeter size adjacent to the “ss” size so you can compare. Sometimes, too, retailers will have a sizing chart with a picture of the size of that particular rhinestone. You can view our millimeter/ss size chart here. When trying to figure out how many rhinestones you need for a project will depend on the size you choose. This is especially true when you’re covering an item with rhinestones. For example, size 20ss is 4.7mm and you need about 29 rhinestones to cover 1 square inch. Compare this to size 12ss which is 3.1mm requiring 67 rhinestones to cover 1 square inch. Of course, the type of project you’re working on may influence your choice of size as well. For instance, you probably want smaller stones for rhinestones your nails yet larger rhinestones for embellishing your wedding dress. Still confused about the right choice of rhinestone for your project? Rhinestones Etc. would love to help! Drop us a line here, and we’ll get back to you quickly with an answer. We’ve been selling rhinestones for over 10 years. Our focus is to provide you with the best quality rhinestones and the cheapest price possible. And now, get free shipping with your first purchase! Simply click on the button above to get your coupon code for free shipping!
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While your wedding day is a big event to plan, you also have some smaller events to organize. There’s the bridesmaid luncheon, bachelorette party, and rehearsal dinner. And for each of these events, you need something to wear. What better way to announce to the world the upcoming event than by wearing a blinged-out “bride” shirt. Perhaps you’ve seen these shirts in major retailers. Generally, they are expensive and made with cheaper rhinestones without much sparkle. However, you can make your own using our rhinestone template and your choice of rhinestones.  How to Use Our Rhinestone Template Simply go to our website and download the template. Our design has all the size rhinestones listed so you know exactly what you need and how many. Moreover, you can experiment by using all the same size or different sizes. Generally, these bride shirts use crystal rhinestones, but you can choose any color you want. Next, decide on whether you want to use hot fix or flat back (glue-on) rhinestones. Hot fix rhinestones have glue already on them while flat backs require glue. Both of these types of rhinestones work great for this type of project. Even if you’ve never undertaken this type of project before, you can do this easily with our instructions. Finally, always make sure to pre-wash your garment before adding rhinestones. Using Hot Fix Rhinestones To start with, you’ll need some transfer paper if you’re going to use hot fix rhinestones. Peel the opaque piece off of the transfer paper and put it aside. Lay the clear paper, sticky side up on top of the template. Now lay the rhinestones, facet side down, on the sticky paper, placing the rhinestones as indicated. Once you have all the rhinestones placed, you can iron it on to your t-shirt. Heat your iron to the hottest setting without steam. Lay your shirt flat on the ironing boards. Position the rhinestone transfer on the shirt, the flat side of the rhinestone touching the shirt. With the iron, press down on rhinestone transfer, holding for 12-17 seconds. Lift the iron up and if necessary, press down on another part of the transfer. DO NOT slide the iron as this may dislodge and move the rhinestones. Once you’ve done this for the entire transfer, allow to cool completely. Then peel off the clear sticky part and you have your finished shirt.  Flat Back Rhinestones On the other hand, flat back rhinestones require an adhesive. You can find several at your local craft store. My favorite fabric glue for rhinestones is Gem-Tac. It dries clear, is washable and is easy to apply. The technique for flat back rhinestones is different. First, lay the shirt as flat as possible on your work surface. Using the template as a guide, lay all the rhinestones on the shirt. Then, one at a time, pick up a rhinestone placing a drop of glue in its place. Next, gently press the rhinestone into the glue drop, allowing some of the glue to seep out the sides. This “extra” glue forms a seal which helps protect the rhinestones from peeling off. Continue removing one rhinestone at a time and gluing into place until your design is complete. Allow to dry flat for 24 hours.  You’ve just saved yourself some money by making your own blinged-out bride shirt. Best of all, our rhinestone template is free! And if you need rhinestones, check out Rhinestones Etc. discount pricing on rhinestones! We have excellent customer service and want your complete satisfaction with each purchase. And now save even more by getting free shipping off your first order! Simply click on the link above to get your coupon code for free shipping. If you have any questions, contact us here. There are many applications to using rhinestones today. From jewelry pieces, to clothing and even home decorating, rhinestones make a dazzling impact. Truly, these small pieces of crystal are impossible to ignore as they reflect light. However, if you’re newly acquainted with rhinestones, you may be confused with some of the different rhinestone brands for sale. There are 2 big names in crystal rhinestones, Swarovski and Preciosa. While there are some other brand names such as Lux and PriceLess, these are generally less well known. Finally, there are many non-brand name rhinestones mainly manufactured in Asia. Rhinestone brands have different price structures with Swarovski being the most expensive and the lesser known brands cheaper. Generally, this is due to the number of rhinestone facets and the material used in the manufacture of the rhinestone.  Preciosa Rhinestones The origins of manufactured rhinestones begin in Bohemia, now the Czech Republic. There skilled artisans honed their craft into producing the early version of rhinestones. Yet, it wasn’t until 1948 that these companies merged together to form the present-day company Preciosa. Preciosa’s most popular rhinestone is the Viva 12. Made with high quality crystal, this number of rhinestone facets is 12. In 2013, the company introduced its lead-free rhinestone the Maxima. This rhinestone has a patented 15 facet cut into crystal produced without the use of toxic lead. It’s available in 39 colors, 16 coatings and 53 different sizes. Swarovski Rhinestones In the crystal valley of Bohemia, Daniel Swarovski made his living as a jeweler. In 1895, after patenting an electric cutting machine that cut crystal more precisely, he moved to Austria. There he opened a factory where he began to make his crystal rhinestones. Always innovative, the company unveiled the Aurora Borealis effect in 1955 which makes rhinestones shimmer in every shade of the rainbow. Today, Swarovski continues its cutting-edge tradition introducing new palettes of color, shapes or cuts. Additionally, the company strives continuously to implement more greener sustainable manufacturing processes. In 2012, the company introduced its certified lead-free crystal. Presently, their rhinestone, the Xirius, has the greatest number of rhinestone facets of any manufacturer, 16. Moreover, Swarovski Rhinestones are available in numerous sizes and a total of over 100 intensely vibrant colors and effects.  Other Rhinestone Manufacturers There are many other rhinestones manufacturers of rhinestones generally at a fraction of the cost of the big-name brands. The Asian markets in particular, produce a large amount of quality crystal rhinestones. Typically, these rhinestones have less facets, usually between 8 and 12. Other manufactures also may use glass rather than crystal eliminating the prismatic effect of crystal. Additionally, less colors may be available in some of these lesser known rhinestone makers. Do You Need a Rhinestone Brand for Your Project? Some projects such as a wedding gown may require a top of the line brand-name rhinestone. Other times, you may be able to use a lesser known rhinestones manufacturer. When considering a rhinestone brand for your project, think about your budget, scope and amount you need. If you decide you can use a lesser known brand, search for reviews of the product before you buy. Be sure to check out the inventory at Rhinestones Etc, carrying both Swarovski and PriceLess lines of rhinestones. Selling rhinestones online for over 10 years, we process and ship your rhinestones quickly. And now, get free shipping off your first purchase! Simply click on the button above to get your coupon code! If you’ve recently gotten engaged, you’ll soon begin planning for your wedding. And although it may seem like it’s so far off into the distance, time has a way of moving fast. Thus, it’s never to early to start working on ideas to make your day special. Typically, weddings are expensive, and many brides and grooms make some things themselves to save on costs. There are a ton of websites and blogs dedicated to the DIYer planning a wedding. You can make your own decorations, favors, and table settings. My DIY place card holders are simple to make and can double as picture holders. For this project I used: A terra cotta pot about 2.75 inches in diameter Metallic gold spray paint Clear acrylic sealer Gold wire (use a smaller gauge for a sturdier, thicker wire - I used 18 gauge) 12ss crystal rhinestones Gem-tac or E6000  How to make a DIY Place Card Holder Begin by spray painting the terra cotta pot with metallic gold paint. Be sure to paint in a well-ventilated area. Once it is completely dry, spray it with a coat of clear acrylic sealant. Allow the sealant to dry completely as well. Measure and cut a piece of gold wire about 16 inches long. Bend one end into a circle about 1 inch in diameter.  This will go on the inside and help to keep the wire standing upright. Place this in the hole of the pot with the unbent end sticking out.  Now take a highlighter or some other household item about ¾ of an inch in diameter. Bend the top part of the wire around the highlighter to achieve a loop. Continue bending the wire around the highlighter several times until you run out of wire.  Which Glues are Best to Use? Next, we’re going to glue crystal 12ss rhinestones around the pot to add some sparkle. You can use either Gem-Tac or E6000. I prefer E6000 for this type of project because I can use less glue and still create a secure bond. However, many crafters do not like E6000 because of the toxicity warnings. Always use in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Gem-Tac is safe to use and works equally well. With this said, it can sometimes leave glue blobs on this type of project. There are other glue alternatives you can use, but I have not tested them. Just make sure the glue is safe for the type of rhinestone you are using. For example, some glues are not for use with acrylic rhinestones. Next, make sure the glue dries clear. Finally, make sure it creates a good bond to the surface you are gluing. Nothing is worse than having rhinestones peel off from your project. I chose to glue rhinestones around the bottom ledge of the pot. This makes it easy to keep a nice even line. Once you’ve glued rhinestones around completely, leave to dry for 24 hours.
Simple and Easy to Make DIY Place Card Holders Now that you’ve got the basic idea, you can personalize this DIY place card holder to match your wedding colors. You can change the color of the paint or rhinestones to compliment the table setting. Then again, you may want to try using smaller terra cotta pots. Finally, if you need to buy rhinestones to make this project, come by and visit Rhinestones Etc. We have a large selection of rhinestones at discount pricing. And now you can get free shipping off your first purchase! Just click on the button above to get your coupon code for free shipping off your first purchase!
Rhinestones are those sparkling pieces of crystal that dazzle and reflect the light. Available in different sizes and colors, rhinestones can really catch the eye. But while rhinestones are breathtaking, it can be intimidating adding them to clothing and accessories. There are thin fabrics, thick fabrics and smooth fabrics. Also, there are glass and metal surfaces. So, let’s talk about how to attach rhinestones to any type of surface. Just as there are different surfaces to attach rhinestones to, there are different ways to attach rhinestones. Generally, when attaching to glass or metal there is only the glue on method available. However, you have several more options when attaching rhinestones to fabrics. Not only are there different glues, but different types of metal settings and sew on rhinestones as well.  Sew on Rhinestones This type of rhinestone comes in many different sizes and shapes. With pre-drilled holes in the crystal, sewing sew-on rhinestones to fabrics are easy. Another sew on rhinestone is the Rose Montee. These are rhinestones set in a metal setting that has cross channels underneath. A needle and thread can easily pass through the channels securing it to the fabric. What’s great about Rose Montees is that thin wire can also pass through the channels. Therefore, you can also use them in jewelry making.  Metal Settings for Rhinestones There are two basic types of metal settings, Tiffany and rim. The basic difference between the two is one secures from the inside of the garment and the other the outside. For Tiffany settings, the metal prongs pierce through to the outside of the fabric to grab the rhinestone. You then bend the prongs to hold the rhinestone in place. On the other hand, rim settings attach from the right side of the fabric. Here the prongs pierce through to the inside of the fabric. A rim surrounds the rhinestone with the prongs bending on the inside of the fabric to secure the rhinestone.  Adhesives for Attaching Rhinestones Chiefly, there are different types of adhesives or glues depending on the surface to which you are attaching rhinestones. Most glues are multi-purpose, but some create a stronger bond on some surfaces. For example, glass or metal is very smooth and requires a stronger glue such as E6000. Fabric or paper is porous and you can use a glue such as Gem-Tac. If you are gluing to clothing, you’ll want to make sure the glue is washable and dries clear. Be sure to read the glue manufacturer’s instructions before you start. Above all, the most important thing to remember when gluing rhinestones is the technique. Use a drop of glue slightly smaller than the rhinestone. When you gently press the rhinestone into the glue drop, some glue should ooze out from the sides. This is very important as it helps to create a seal which prevents the rhinestone from peeling off. If your rhinestones fall off it is most likely due to using too little glue. Easily Attach Rhinestones In a nutshell, those are the ways in which you can attach rhinestones to any surface. If you have any questions concerning anything rhinestones, feel free to contact us here with your questions. And if you are looking to buy rhinestones, you can stop by our store, Rhinestones Etc. We have discount pricing and great customer service. And now you can get free shipping off your first purchase! Just click on the button above to get the coupon code for free shipping off your first purchase! July 4th is just around the corner with the promise of picnics and fireworks. A celebration of the United States independence, we take pride in draping red, white and blue bunting across our porch. Why not show your pride for your country with a blinged-out rhinestone design t-shirt? You can wear your American pride on a t-shirt using our free rhinestone template download of the American Flag. Rhinestone templates make it easy to rhinestone, even if you have never rhinestoned anything before. Just copy the pattern onto your favorite shirt. Of course, the best thing is that our rhinestone template is free!  History of the American Flag Legend has it that Betsy Ross sewed the first American Flag. Back in 1776, she received a visit from George Washington regarding the design of the flag. He presented her with the basic layout but, Betsy allegedly finalized the design. She argued for stars with five points because they were easier to cut out with a single snip. But what you might not know is that it wasn’t until 1912 that the specific layout was determined by law. Consequently, flags made before this time show different arrangements of the stars and stripes. In fact, an Act passed in 1794 allowed for 15 stripes rather than the current 13.  How to use our Rhinestones Template Download First, download our free rhinestone template here. As you can see, the template gives the size and quantity of the rhinestones used. However, feel free to experiment with the rhinestone design and substitute different sizes or spacing. Next, pre-wash your garment before you start to rhinestone. Once washed and dry, lay the shirt on a flat surface to work on. Using our template as a guide, lay out the rhinestones on the shirt. Once you are satisfied with the arrangement of rhinestones, you can start gluing. My favorite glue for fabrics is Gem-Tac for its ease of use. Pick up one of the rhinestones off your design and put a drop of glue in its place. You want to use a drop slightly smaller than the rhinestone. When you gently press the rhinestone into the glue drop, some of the glue should ooze from the sides. The creates a seal which helps prevent the rhinestone from peeling off. Continue gluing in this manner until your design is complete. You can also use hot fix rhinestones and transfer paper if you prefer. Simply lay out the design on the sticky side of the transfer paper, facet side down. Once you finished laying your design out, iron it on to your shirt. Either way, our free rhinestone template download makes it so easy!  Where to Buy Rhinestones to Use with your Free Rhinestone Template Need some rhinestones to get you started? Rhinestones Etc. has been selling Rhinestones online for over 10 years. With fast shipping, we get your embellishments to your door quickly. Additionally, now you can get free shipping with your first purchase! Simply click on the button above to get your coupon code for free shipping! If you have any questions, you can reach out to us here. Are you new to using rhinestones? If so, you may have noticed that rhinestones have their own unique unit of measurement. You may have seen sizes listed as 20ss or 30ss. While you are familiar with inches and millimeters, you’ve never encountered “ss” before. Since you don’t understand this term, you have no idea whether the rhinestone is large or small. Is there a way to translate rhinestone sizes into something recognizable?  History of Rhinestones To understand the abbreviation “ss”, we must go back in history to when rhinestones were a natural resource. Originally, sparkling quartz was found along the banks of the Rhine River, hence the name “rhinestones”. Finders of these sparkling quartz stones grouped them according to their size by dropping them into different size holes. Each hole was assigned a number with smaller stones having smaller numbers. So, whichever hole number the quartz fit into became the stone size. Then, stone size became abbreviated to “ss” As years passed, this natural resource became depleted and manufacturers devised ways to replicate rhinestones. While today companies manufacture rhinestones, stone size is still the unit of measurement used.  Size Charts and Guides Typically, most rhinestone retailers will list the “ss” size alongside the “mm” or millimeter size. This enables you to check the size on a ruler. Many will also have a sizing guide with a picture illustrating the size of each rhinestone. Either of these should be able to assist you in choosing a rhinestone size. Keep in mind too that the larger the number assigned to the rhinestone the larger the crystal. So, a 34ss rhinestones will be a much larger rhinestone than 10ss. Generally too, the larger the rhinestones, the more expensive it is. Nevertheless, you will need less large size stones to cover an area. For example, to cover 1 square inch you will need only about 12 size 34ss rhinestones. While you will need about 67 size 12ss rhinestones to cover the same square inch. Rhinestone Sizes in Millimeters If rhinestone sizes still have you confused, let Rhinestones Etc help you! We have been selling rhinestones for over 10 years. We remember how it was when we first started with rhinestones and how confusing it all seemed. Moreover, we’d love to help you figure out what size and how many rhinestones you need. Contact us here with any questions. And now we're offering free shipping on your first purchase! Just click on the button above to get your coupon code! Macramé is that craft using knotting techniques and some type of cord. Chiefly, common types of cord include cotton, linen, jute, leather or yard. Moreover, the craft is ancient, probably dating back to around 500 BC where the Persians and Syrians used it. From there it spread to other Arab countries, and then finally Western Europe. Today, macramé has become fashionable in jewelry making, mainly bracelets. To make a macramé bracelet, the crafter mainly uses square knots, weaving beads in between. Fancier bracelets use pave beads, which are beads covered in rhinestones. This tutorial shows you how to make a macramé bracelet with beads that is quick and easy.  How to Make a Macramé bracelet For this project you need: Cord in the following lengths: 2 ft, 4 ft, and 2 ft Beads - 5 size 12mm and 2 size 6mm Glue If you have a macramé board, insert one of the 2 ft pieces of cord in the slot. You'll want to leave about 8 inches hanging behind the board. Or you can use a clipboard as I did or simply tape the piece of cord to the table. Take the 4 ft cord and find the center by folding it in half. Place the center of this cord underneath the cord attached to your macramé board. If you are using a clipboard, or have taped the cord to the table, start about 8 inches down. Now you will begin making your square knots.  Take the left piece and cross it over the center cord.  Take the right piece and thread the end underneath both the left and center cords. Now, pull it up on through the left corner between the center cord and left cord. Pull to tighten. Repeat starting with the right cord crossing over the center cord. Then take the left cord, thread it underneath both right and center cords. Again, pulling it up, this time on the right corner between the center and right cord. You now have one square knot.  How to Add Beads to Your Macramé Bracelet Continue making square knots until you have 3 square knots. Take a bead and thread it through the center cord.  Slide to the bead so that it is up against the square knots. Make your next square knot around the bead. Again, continue knotting until you have made 3 knots. Slide another bead on and continue knotting. You can make your bracelet as long as you want, with most bracelets measuring 7 ½ inches. Seal the ends of the left and right cords using super glue, E6000 or some other super strong glue. Allow to dry. Snip the ends of the left and right cords close to the knots. Your bracelet should now look like this:  Form a circle out of your bracelet. One end of the center cord should face up and the other down.  You are now going to make the sliding clasp also using square knots. Take the remaining piece of 2 ft cord and fold it in half to find the center. Place the center underneath both center cords so that one end faces left and the other right. In the same manner as before, make 5 square knots.  Once you’ve made your 5 square knots, seal the ends of the knotting cord with glue. When dry, snip the ends of the cord close to the knots. Thread one of the 6mm beads onto the top center cord. Next, tie a knot about 2-3 inches away from the sliding clasp.  Do the same for the bottom center cord. Seal the ends of the cord with glue and let dry. Snip the ends of the cord close to the knot.  Your finished Macramé Bracelet with Beads These bracelets are easy and fun to make and look fabulous! You can experiment with more beads and fewer knots or different size beads and different types of cord. Try adding pave beads for some sparkle! Each macramé bracelet with beads will be a unique and fashionable piece of jewelry. Do you need some beads to start your macramé bracelet? Rhinestones Etc. has been selling rhinestones online for over 10 years with discount pricing and quality customer service. In addition to our stock of rhinestones, pearls, and metal trim, we now carry pave and clay beads. And now get free shipping off your first purchase! Just click on the button above the get free shipping off your first purchase! The variety of fabrics is endless. There are so many different types of fabrics, with some thicker and some thinner than others. Denim, for example is a very thick material, while organza is very sheer. When it comes to gluing rhinestones, is there a difference in gluing to different fabrics? Additionally, what is the best glue for rhinestones on any type of fabric? You can glue rhinestones can to just about any surface and any type of fabric. For example, you can glue rhinestones to stretch lycra, velvet, and spandex material as used on dance or skating costumes. Equally, wedding gowns made of satin, organza, tulle, charmeuse, chiffon, and lace can have rhinestones glued on to them. While thicker materials such as denim or canvas can also have rhinestones glued to them.  Some Brand Name Fabric Glues for Rhinestones on Fabric Certainly, there seems to be no end to the types of fabrics you can glue rhinestones to. However, what fabric glue is best? There are several excellent glues on the market specifically for gluing rhinestones to fabric. When choosing fabric glue for rhinestones make sure it is sure it is permanent, washable and dries clear. Some brand-name glues are Aleene’s Flexible Stretchable or Jewel It, Beacon’s Fabri-Tac or Gem-Tac, Crafter’s Pick Jewel Bond or E6000. Although many people like E6000, it tends to be hard to apply and a bit gloppy. Plus, many people don’t like the toxicity associated with it. Typically, I will use E6000 on surfaces such as metal but only in a very well-ventilated area. On the other hand, Crafter’s Pick Jewel Bond, Beacon’s Gem-Tac, and Aleene’s Flexible Stretchable or Jewel It are all non-toxic. Although I have not used all the glues listed here, Gem-Tac is my favorite fabric glue for rhinestones. It is easy to apply and creates a strong bond on textiles. Best Way to Glue Rhinestones on Fabric Some people assume just because you use the correct glue, your rhinestones shouldn’t fall off. However, there is a specific technique required to glue rhinestones on fabric. First, always prewash your fabric before gluing. Then, lay your fabric on a flat surface. Place a drop of fabric glue slightly smaller than the rhinestone on the surface. Gently press a rhinestone into the glue drop. Some of the glue should seep out from the sides. This is very important as this creates a seal preventing the rhinestone from peeling of falling off. Moreover, this is the main reason rhinestones will fall off during washing. If you are gluing rhinestones to a sheer fabric, like organza, place a sheet of wax paper underneath the fabric. Glue as stated above and let dry. Once the glue is dry, remove the wax paper.  Where to Buy Rhinestones So, now that you see that you can glue rhinestones to every fabric imaginable, go and start blinging! Need rhinestones? We’ve got you covered. Rhinestones Etc. has been selling rhinestones online for over 10 years. With discount pricing on embellishments and great customer service, we want to help you sparkle. And now get free shipping off your first purchase! Just click on the button above to get your coupon code! Polymer clay is all the rage in do-it-yourself circles. And no wonder, relatively inexpensive, polymer clay comes in a wide range of colors and has many applications. Chiefly, polymer clay is polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that is soft and malleable until baked when it becomes hard. You can mix, swirl or stack colors to make patterns or mimic faux stones. Moreover, you can roll it, texture it and shape it. To cure it, place it in a preheated 275-degree oven. Bake for 15 minutes per ¼ of thickness. Likewise, one fun application of this material is in the making of polymer clay beads to use in jewelry making. And the possibilities are endless when making clay beads. But don’t worry if you are not skilled in clay. Rhinestones Etc. now carries clay beads and will be stocking new colors in the coming weeks.  A Brief History of Polymer Clay Notably, the origins of this type of clay began in Germany in the 1930s with Kathe Kruse. A renowned doll-maker, she was experimenting with different clays in order to produce a more detailed face for her dolls. But it was her daughter, Sophie Rehbinder Kruse, who made a breakthrough that developed into present-day FIMO clay. Here in the US other people were experimenting with forms of polymer clay. One such company, Zenith Products Company accidentally created its own form in the 1960s. Originally developed as a thermal transfer compound, it failed to work as intended. When it was suggested for use in the arts and crafts, it was marketed under the Sculpey name. Today, there are several brands of polymer clay to choose from. Additionally, there are specialty clays such as liquid, mica, and translucent. Indeed, polymer clay continues to gain popularity, as there seems to be no end to the possibilities.  Polymer Clay Beads One of the greatest attributes of polymer clay is that when mixed, the finished product can mimic stone or metal. Complimentary colors can be swirled together to make a bead suitable for macramé bracelets or earrings. Glue small size rhinestones on to clay beads to make pave beads. Add 3/16 grommets and your bead is great to add to your charm bracelet. Not handy with clay? Not a problem as Rhinestones Etc. now stock polymer clay beads as well as pave beads. In the coming weeks, we’ll be adding additional colors. In addition, we have plenty of rhinestones to purchase as well. With over 10 years with online selling experience and great customer service, we can help you find the supplies you need. And you can get free shipping off your first purchase! Simply click on the button above to receive your coupon code. |
Karen I have five kids and often feel like I am running a zoo. I love to craft and do so in whatever spare time I have. On your first purchase of quality embellishments from Rhinestones Etc.
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