Create A Wow Factor - A Few Ideas to DIY Rhinestone Jeans

​Jeans are one of the most versatile items in any wardrobe. Pair them with a different top, shoes, or accessories, and transform your outfit from casual to business or dressy. Or, put on a pair of bedazzled jeans for a cosmopolitan and glamorous look. Why pay a high price when you can DIY rhinestone jeans to create your unique look? 

How to DIY Rhinestone Jeans

Attaching rhinestones to clothing is easy and simple once you learn the methods of application. The most popular method for attaching rhinestones to fabric is gluing. While you’ll find several suitable rhinestone glues, my favorite for fabrics is Gem-Tac. It dries clear, is washable, and the flow is easy to control. Plus, it works well with denim. Many people also like E6000 for gluing rhinestones to fabric.

Although gluing is an easy method for attaching rhinestones, there is a technique to it. If done incorrectly, your bedazzling crystals may fall off in the wash.

When gluing rhinestones, use a drop of glue slightly smaller than the rhinestone. As you press the crystal into the glue, some of the glue should seep out from around the sides. This produces a seal that helps protect the rhinestone from peeling off.

Another option is to use hotfix rhinestones. These crystals have glue on the flat side of the gem. Heating the rhinestone activates the glue. Then when it cools, forming a strong and permanent bond. Typically, hotfix rhinestones are the preferred choice for frequently worn and washed clothing.

Alternatively, you can use metal settings to attach flatback (non hotfix rhinestones). Metal settings hold rhinestones in place with metal legs that wrap around the crystal. Rhinestones attached with metal settings are very secure.
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Finally, you can choose the sew-on rhinestones to hand stitch the crystals to your garment. Additionally, you can glue and sew these crystals into place for a more secure attachment. 

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Some Rhinestone Pattern Ideas for Jeans

Now that you’ve decided to DIY rhinestone jeans, how do you decide on a design? If you’re a beginner, you can start with something simple. Jeans with rhinestones on pockets are trendy and very easy to do. Moreover, the top hem of the pocket can work as a guide to keep the crystals in a straight line.

Another idea is to scatter rhinestones along the outside pant leg seam. Before you begin gluing, place masking/painter’s tape on the jeans to mark the placement boundaries of the rhinestones. Doing so will give you nice clean lines.
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You can also combine fabric paint with rhinestones for a mixed-media type of embellishment. One of the easiest ways to fabric paint is to use stencils.  Embroidery and cross-stitch pattern books are usually good places to find designs Often, you can find them at your local craft store. Additionally, you can make your own. Simply print a design onto cardstock, then cut it out with an X-ACTO knife. After painting your garment, accent it with rhinestones to make your artwork pop. 

What Rhinestone Size and Color Works Best? 

Most rhinestone manufacturers offer a variety of colors. Often, your choices are a personal preference. Typically, crystal and crystal AB are popular options that match everything. For an accent color, choose a complementary color that is exactly opposite on the color wheel.

Likewise, the best crystal size is a matter of taste. Some people like to make a bold statement while others prefer a little sparkle. Yet, choosing a rhinestone size can be confusing since manufacturers use a unique method of measurement. Usually, retailers will list crystalline products in stone size along with the accompanying millimeter measurement. For embellishing jeans, you may want to use 12ss, 16ss, or 20ss. Additionally, you can use a variety of sizes to give depth to your design.

Ready to start your DIY rhinestone jeans project? Rhinestones Etc. has quality rhinestones at competitive pricing.  You’ll love our fast processing times with many orders shipping the same day as purchased. Browse our online store to find your size and color. 


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