What are flat back rhinestones and how can they be used

Rhinestones are dazzling crystal pieces that add sparkle wherever you put them. One type, flat back rhinestones have a flat back and need an adhesive. Whereas one side is faceted, the other side is flat. This differentiates them from pointed backs and hot fix. Pointed back rhinestones do not have a flat side but a faceted pointed side that allows for more brilliance. Hot fix rhinestones have a flat back with glue that needs to be heated for the glue to be activated. 
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​Types of Rhinestones
Rhinestones can be made of glass, crystal or acrylic material. Acrylic is the cheapest rhinestone and is a molded rhinestone. Acrylic material is poured into a mold to form the facets. For glass and crystal rhinestones, the facets are cut by laser for a cleaner, more precise facet.

Crystal rhinestones are the most expensive just as Waterford crystal is more expensive than a wine glass. While glass does reflect light, it lacks the prismatic quality of crystal. A prismatic effect has the ability to break up the light much like a prism. In addition, the number of facets and arrangement of facets on the rhinestone affects the reflection of light. This will vary depending on the manufacturer.  Many brands have 12 facets but one brand, Swarovski, has the most at 16. 

​Most flat back rhinestones come in a variety of sizes from the size of a pinhead to the size of a dime. Also. there are a variety of colors available in every shade of the rainbow. Ultimately, all of these factors, material, facets, size and color determine the price of the rhinestones. 

How Can Flat Back Rhinestones Be Used?

There is an almost endless amount of ways flat back rhinestones can be used. First of all, rhinestones can be glued to clothing. Frequently, wedding dresses and other formal wear are embellished with rhinestones. Sports such as figure skating, gymnastics and women’s figure competition suits all use rhinestones. Dance and cheerleading costumes all use rhinestones as well.

Interior design is another place flat back where rhinestones can be used. You can bling out candlesticks, coffee mugs, glass items and even deer antlers. Rhinestone wallpaper is also a new fashion statement that is catching on. Any area that you want to draw attention to or brighten can benefit from the use of rhinestones.
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Of course, rhinestone jewelry is also very popular. Cheaper than the cost of diamonds yet with just as much sparkle, rhinestones never fail to dazzle. 

Is There a Certain Glue to Use?

There is a 2-step process to gluing flat back rhinestones: choosing the right glue and gluing correctly. Many people only focus on choosing which glue to use. This is unfortunate because gluing incorrectly and lead to rhinestones falling off.
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For fabrics, my favorite glue is Gem-Tac. It dries clear, is washable and easy to apply. To adhere rhinestones to materials such as metal, glass and vinyl, I like to use E6000. Similarly, this glue dries clear and is washable, but is harder to apply. 
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​When gluing rhinestones, use an amount of glue slightly smaller than the rhinestone. Some of the glue should seep out from the sides when the rhinestone is gently pressed into the glue. This creates a seal which helps prevent the rhinestones from falling off. Use too little glue, and you are likely to lose some rhinestones the next time you wash your garment.

​So, what are you waiting for? Do you want to get started on a rhinestone project? Rhinestones Etc. has competitive pricing and great customer service! We’ve been in business for over 10 years helping customers create dazzling blinged-out creations.