Rhinestones seemed like an outdated technique, but in 2025 they are making a comeback stronger than ever. Customised jeans with rhinestones are trending this season. Discover how to apply them and which products will help you achieve professional finishes.

What is the rhinestone technique?

Applying rhinestones involves placing decorative stones on fabrics, accessories, or rigid supports to create designs that are shiny, elegant, and visually impactful. There are several types of rhinestones:

• Thermal Rhinestones (hotfix): adhere by applying heat. They are ideal for customising fabrics such as cotton, polyester, or textile blends, and are the quickest and most professional option for garments.
• Sew-on rhinestones: require manual or machine sewing. They are mainly used on garments that will undergo heavy use or frequent washing, such as dance costumes, ceremonial clothing, or handmade jewellery, where extra secure attachment is needed.
• Adhesive Rhinestones: already includes adhesive for direct application. It is perfect for temporary decorations or for personalising items such as mobile phone cases, diaries, photo frames, or rigid surfaces.

What materials can you customise with rhinestones?

Working with rhinestones allows you to open new business lines such as customisation for weddings, corporate events, or exclusive fashion. The possibilities are vast. You can apply rhinestones on:

• Clothing: T-shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, dresses…
• Accessories: trainers, caps, backpacks, bags, belts.
• Gift items: diaries, boxes, event decorations.

Essential materials for working with rhinestones

To apply rhinestones with professional quality, these tools will make the job easier for you:

• Adhesive vinyl for rhinestone templates: ideal for creating templates that ensure the precise placement of each stone.
• Special Transporter for Rhinestones: perfect for transferring the entire design without losing the original arrangement.
• Rhinestone Samples: explore different types of stones, colours, and sizes before deciding on your final design.
• Crystal rhinestones and octagonal metal rhinestones: high-quality crystals with exceptional brilliance, available in various finishes.
• Manual rhinestone applicators and precision tweezers with light: key tools for placing each piece with maximum accuracy.
• Sticky Pen Adhesive Pen: practical solutions for handling small stones and working with precision.

Are you just starting and want everything you need without complications? At Brildor, we make it easy with our Rhinestone Transfer Starter Kit, which includes everything you need to begin simply and effectively.

How to apply rhinestones step by step

1. Design your pattern using the adhesive vinyl for rhinestone templates.
2. Place the stones on the template
3. Use the transfer paper to pick up the complete design
4. Apply heat following the manufacturer's recommendations.
5. Carefully remove the carrier once cool

With this process, you will achieve professional and long-lasting results.

Practical tips for a professional finish

🧼Ensure the fabric is clean before applying the stones→ If the fabric has dust, grease, or residues, the adhesion of the rhinestones will be significantly weaker, and the stones may come off after the first wash or use.

🔥Apply the appropriate temperature and pressure according to the type of rhinestone→ Each type of adhesive (hotfix, glue, etc.) requires a specific combination of heat and pressure to activate correctly. If you apply less heat or pressure than needed, the stones will not be properly secured.

🌬️Allow to cool thoroughly before handling the customised garment→ During cooling, the adhesive fully solidifies, ensuring a long-lasting bond. Handling the garment while hot may shift the stones or weaken the adhesion.

✂️Use specific tools→ Tools such as precision tweezers with light or the Sticky Pen adhesive pen allow for quicker and cleaner work, enabling you to place the stones with greater accuracy and avoid mistakes, thus reducing work time and improving the quality of the final finish.

Inspiration: products you can customise with rhinestones

Rhinestones not only enhance the appearance of a product but also increase its retail value and perception of exclusivity. Here are some product ideas you can create with rhinestones to expand your product catalogue:

• Premium t-shirts and sweatshirts
• Bright caps for events
• Unique handbags decorated by hand
• Customised trainers
• Exclusive corporate gifts

Follow Brildor's Rhinestones board on Pinterest.

The rhinestones technique is perfect for setting yourself apart in an increasingly competitive market. Incorporating it into your catalogue can open up new business opportunities and help you captivate your customers with products full of sparkle and personality.

At Brildor, you have all the materials and tools you need to get started. Visit our rhinestones section and start creating trend-setting designs today!

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to share them with us by leaving a comment. Our team will be delighted to provide you with answers and assistance. You can also directly contact our Customer Service department for additional help.

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