Bedazzling: how to bedazzle anything

The three ways to bedazzle

The full comparison is in Hotfix vs glue-on rhinestones; the project finder picks the method for any surface.

What you need to start

• Stones: a bedazzling kit, or loose rhinestones in 3 mm.
• Glue or heat: the right glue for hard surfaces, or a hotfix applicator for fabric.
• A pick-up tool: a wax pencil and a ridged tray.
• Prep: isopropyl alcohol and a cloth; fine sandpaper for glossy surfaces.
• A count: the How many rhinestones do I need? tells you how many stones to buy.

What you can bedazzle

Almost anything hard or woven: tumblers, phone cases, bottles, mirrors, Crocs, sneakers, jeans, T-shirts, graduation caps, journals and guitars. The exceptions are silicone and soft plastics, which glue won’t hold. More in Things to bedazzle.

How to bedazzle, step by step

1. Choose the method for your surface (glue, hotfix or stickers).
2. Clean the surface; scuff glossy plastic or metal lightly.
3. Mark your design — outline first, fill second.
4. Work in small patches so glue doesn’t skin over.
5. Let glue cure fully (often 24 hours or more) before use or washing.

Detailed walk-throughs: using a glue-on kit and using a hotfix applicator.

Making it last

Most lost stones come down to the wrong glue, glue that skinned before the stone went in, or using the piece before it cured. Keep anything glued out of dishwashers and hot cars, and never put stones or glue near the rim of a cup. See why rhinestones fall off.