Best Rhinestones for Crafts: A Complete Buying Guide

There's nothing more satisfying than mixing and matching the perfect colors of rhinestones for your project. But deciding between ruby red or scarlet isn't the only decision you need to make when choosing rhinestones for crafts. The type of rhinestone, size, and the craft itself matter, too. 

Table of Contents

1. What Are the Different Types of Rhinestones for Crafts?
2. What Size Rhinestones Do You Need for Your Project?
3. Which Rhinestone Material Is Right for You?
4. What Are the Best Craft Projects to Use Rhinestones On?
5. How Do You Apply Rhinestones to Your Crafts?

What Are the Different Types of Rhinestones for Crafts?

From a distance, rhinestones often look pretty similar: sparkly and made from glass or acrylic. However, they actually come in several different types, and each works best for different crafts. Here are a few popular options. 

Flatback Rhinestones

Flatback stones have faceted fronts and perfectly smooth undersides. That makes them easy to glue onto flexible materials, such as tote bags and denim jackets. They also stick well to hard surfaces like hair clips. 

Planet Rhinestone carries over 100 types of flatback stones in a wide range of colors and sizes. Many have metallic coatings on the back to reflect light, adding a little extra dazzle to your crafts. 

Hotfix Rhinestones

Hotfix stones come with a glue backing that activates with heat and bonds to the surface of your project. Crafters often use a heat press or iron to apply these crystals to fabric. Once the adhesive cools, the stones are firmly fixed in place. 

These rhinestones usually don't fall off in the wash, especially if you let them cool for the proper amount of time. That makes them a solid choice for apparel and dance costumes. For example, you could use orange and black hotfix stones to embellish a shirt for Halloween. 

Jelly Rhinestones 

For something a little more whimsical, try jelly rhinestones. They look like gummy candy, but they're actually made from resin. They're usually translucent without a metallic backing. 

These rhinestones are pretty yet budget-friendly, so anyone can enjoy them. That's why they're one of the hottest trends for nail art and fashion accessories. 

Planet Rhinestone has close to a hundred kinds of jelly rhinestones in stunning colors, from bubble gum pink to neon tangerine. Whether you're doing your nails for prom or adding pizazz to your book bag, you'll find the perfect color. 

Sew-On Rhinestones

Glue doesn't cut it for every craft. Sew-on rhinestones have a hole or prong setting so you can stitch them into your project. 

These stones work best for garments that you plan to wash frequently, such as T-shirts and socks. They're also a good choice for making earrings and other jewelry. 

Pointed-Back Rhinestones

Like flatback rhinestones, pointed-back ones have a faceted front, but their backs are shaped like cones. They require a setting or a bezel, so they're usually used in jewelry making.

What Size Rhinestones Do You Need for Your Project?

As you shop for rhinestones, you'll probably notice that the same product often comes in multiple sizes. Understanding what these numbers mean will help you avoid surprises. 

Vendors usually use the stone sizing (SS) system. SS6 is tiny, while SS10 is a popular all-purpose size. Anything SS20 or above is a bold statement stone, so you probably don't want to weigh down your headband with them. 

Here's a closer look at the most popular sizes: 

• Small stones (SS6-SS10): These stones are delicate and petite. Use them for nail art or patterns on accessories. For example, you could add a sparkly heart to your hair clip or spell out your dog's name on a collar. 
• Mid-range stones (SS12-SS16): These are staples for most bedazzling projects. They're easy to see from a distance, yet small enough to arrange into detailed embellishments. Crafters often add them to dance costumes and spirit wear. 
• Large stones (SS20 and above): Hefty stones add a dramatic flair to tote bags, denim jackets, tumblers, and event décor. If you're going for an eye-catching sparkle, these are the stones for you.

Always choose rhinestones that fit the size of your project. For example, SS6 stones look great on a phone case, but they'll be practically invisible on a horse saddle or banner. 

A Quick Reference: Common SS Sizes and Their Uses

Which Rhinestone Material Is Right for You?

In Planet Rhinestone's catalog, glass rhinestones are the luxury option. They're exceptionally clear and have deep colors that won't fade or lose their sparkle over time. 

Glass stones are also heavier and more durable than plastic ones. That makes them perfect for projects where you really want your rhinestones to shine, like dance costumes and apparel. 

For a more affordable alternative, try jelly rhinestones. They're lightweight and come in countless fun, translucent finishes. These stones are an excellent entry point for newcomers and creative parents working on crafts with their kids. 

Consider your project's overall aesthetic before you buy rhinestones. Glass sparkles more brilliantly in bright light, so it's a go-to for stage costumes and photography. Meanwhile, jelly stones are softer and trendier. They work great for nail art and fashion accessories, especially for younger people. 

Longevity is another huge factor when comparing different materials. Projects like clothing and shoes often see heavy wear and need to survive many rounds in the washing machine. In these situations, glass hotfix stones from Planet Rhinestone typically hold up better than jelly ones. 

What Are the Best Craft Projects To Use Rhinestones On?

You've probably seen plenty of people wearing sparkly clothing at the grocery store or mall. Apparel is the most popular use for rhinestones, especially on T-shirts, hoodies, and jackets. Hotfix stones are great for these projects. Applied correctly, they bond securely to fabric and can withstand regular washing. 

If you're new to bedazzling, you can't go wrong with an eco-friendly tote bag. It's a flat surface, so it's easy to arrange the stones in a cute design. You also don't need any fancy tools, just a pack of flatback rhinestones and craft glue. 

For a smaller project, try bedazzling hair clips and accessories with small flatback stones (SS6-SS10). You can turn barrettes and headbands into custom pieces with your initials or a fun pattern. It's a perfect rainy day activity for parents crafting with their kids. 

Dance costumes are another popular bedazzling project, but not just any rhinestones will do. You need extra sparkly crystals that won't fly off during an energetic kick or flip. For these crafts, hotfix glass rhinestones from Planet Rhinestone are the go-to choice for studios and costume designers. 

And don't forget about nail art to match your twinkling costume or apparel. Planet Rhinestone's jelly and flatback stones are popular embellishments for fingernails and toenails. Go for smaller sizes (SS4 to SS6) that won't get in the way of your daily routine. 

If you're interested in jewelry making, look for more specialized types like pointed-back and sew-on rhinestones. They fit snugly into metal settings for earrings, rings, and pendants. 

Of course, this list barely scratches the surface of everything you can bedazzle. Phone cases, shoes, aluminum water bottles, home décor — if a rhinestone won't damage it, embellish away. 

How Do You Apply Rhinestones to Your Crafts?

Choosing the right rhinestones is only half the battle. You also need to know how to apply them properly so they don't fall off.

1. Applying Flatback Rhinestones

Crafting with flatback stones is fairly straightforward. All you need is a strong, clear-drying adhesive and a little patience. Apply a small dot of the glue to the stones one at a time. 

For the best results, use a wax pencil or rhinestone picker tool to lift each stone and place it in the right spot. It's more precise (and less messy) than using your fingers. 

This technique works best for rigid surfaces, such as phone cases and hair clips, that won't shift while you're adding the stones. 

2. Applying Hotfix Rhinestones

For more secure embellishments, craft with hotfix rhinestones. It takes a little more effort, but the durability is worth it, especially for dance costumes and apparel. 

Start by arranging the stones in a pattern, then use transfer tape or hotfix tape to move all the stones to the fabric at once. For example, you could arrange them into a star and lift the whole shape with the tape. That's much faster than placing stones individually.

Use a heat press to fuse the stones to the fabric. You can also use a regular iron for small projects, but a heat press provides more consistent temperature and pressure, key to creating a permanent bond. 

3. Applying Rhinestones for Nail Art

You don't need to shell out money at a salon for bedazzled nails. Press small flatback or jelly rhinestones into uncured gel or a dot of nail glue, then stick them to your nails. Be sure to choose small stones (SS4-SS6) that won't feel too bulky. 

Become a Bedazzling Whiz

Bedazzling isn't a complicated hobby, but the right rhinestones take your craft to the next level of sparkle. Consider the material, size, shape, and shine you need for your project. 

No matter which rhinestones for crafts you choose, Planet Rhinestone has what you need. 

FAQs 

Can I use hotfix rhinestones on tote bags?

Yes, but only if your tote bag is made from a fabric that can withstand heat. Cotton canvas works well, while synthetic or coated bags may require flatback stones and glue instead.

Are glass rhinestones better than plastic for crafts?

Yes, glass rhinestones offer significantly more sparkle and durability, making them the better choice for projects where appearance and longevity matter.

Do I need a heat press to apply hotfix rhinestones?

No, a household iron can work for small projects, though a heat press delivers more consistent pressure and temperature for larger or professional-quality applications.