BiY Supplies
Below is everything you need to start bejeweling. You can find all of these things in both my shop and on Amazon.
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Rhinestone Picker
Use a pencil or tool with a wax tip to pick up your smaller rhinestones, while tweezers help with repositioning and placing larger embellishments.
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Glue
There are many different types of glue out there, and it may take trial and error for you to figure out what works best for you. I prefer working with B-7000 but E-6000 is another great option. Do not use super glue or hot glue.
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Craft Trays
I suggest using both small rhinestone trays to pick up your rhinestones, and a larger tray to catch any loose embellishments and protect your work area from glue residue.
Bejewel it Yourself Kit
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Embellishments
Rhinestones come in a variety of sizes, facets, and materials, all of which will affect their sparkle and durability. My Bling Blends primarily use a combination of acrylic and resin jelly embellishments.
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Glass Rhinestones
Glass rhinestones, while heavier and more expensive, are going to have a much sparklier finish that will last much longer than acrylic or resin rhinestones.
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Acrylic Rhinestones
Resin and acrylic rhinestones come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors. Despite being more affordable than glass, these rhinestones may dull over time due to their sparkly coating.
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Other Embellishments
This technique also works well with other flat back embellishments, such as acrylic butterflies and half pearls.
Shop Bling Blends
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Fuschia Signature Sparkles Bling Blend
Regular price From $6.00 USDRegular price$0.00 USDSale price From $6.00 USD -
Mermaid Vibes Signature Sparkles Bling Blend
Regular price From $6.00 USDRegular price$0.00 USDSale price From $6.00 USD -
Aqua Signature Sparkles Bling Blend
Regular price From $6.00 USDRegular price$0.00 USDSale price From $6.00 USD -
Purple Signature Sparkles Bling Blend
Regular price From $6.00 USDRegular price$0.00 USDSale price From $6.00 USD -
Pastel Rainbow Signature Sparkles Bling Blend
Regular price From $6.00 USDRegular price$0.00 USDSale price From $6.00 USD -
Princess Palette Signature Sparkles Bling Blend
Regular price From $6.00 USDRegular price$0.00 USDSale price From $6.00 USD
How to Bejewel it Yourself
- Work in a well-lit, well-ventilated area with a flat, uncluttered surface. Place your rhinestones on a flat surface - the tray will help flip over the rhinestones.
- Clean the surface with rubbing alcohol to remove dust or oils. Let it dry completely before applying glue.
- Arrange your embellishments on the accessory without glue to visualize the final look. Take a photo for reference. For symmetrical designs, plan one side and mirror it on the other.
- Work in 1-centimeter sections: Apply a thin layer of B7000 glue directly onto the accessory. You’ll have about 60 seconds before the glue starts setting, so apply glue only to the area you’re working on.
- Start with Larger Pieces: Use tweezers or a wax picker pencil to place larger embellishments like flowers or butterflies first.
- Add Smaller Fillers: After placing larger pieces, use the wax pencil to fill in gaps with rhinestones and pearls in various sizes and textures for a layered look.
- Adjust as Needed: You’ll have a few minutes to adjust before the glue fully sets. If it hardens too soon, scrape it off and reapply.
- Repeat in Sections: Continue working section by section until the design is complete.
- Leave the accessory undisturbed for 24 hours to allow the glue to cure completely. Avoid touching or testing the embellishments during this time.
- Optional: Once cured, add a clear topcoat for extra hold, especially around edges where pieces might catch. Avoid using sealant on matte or iridescent embellishments, as it may alter their finish. Clear nail polish can work as a quick alternative.
FAQ
How many rhinestones do I need?
Each of my Bling Blends comes in a 20g bag and includes approximately 800 to 1,200 flatback acrylic rhinestones and pearls (2mm–10mm). One 20g bag typically covers about 30–50 square inches, depending on spacing and project style.
General project estimates:
- 20 oz tumbler: ~40g–80g (2–4 bags)
- Lighter cover: ~16g (about 1 bag)
- Heart sunglasses: ~6g–10g (1 bag)
- 5x7 canvas (full front): ~30g (about 2 bags)
Coverage will vary based on placement, spacing, and layering. These estimates are intended as a general guide.
Can I use hot glue?
Not recommended! Hot glue doesn't hold as well on slick surfaces and can be too bulky, affecting the look. Jewelry glue like B7000 gives a much stronger, longer-lasting hold.
How do I remove glue if I make a mistake?
If the glue is still wet, wipe it away with the end of your picker or a toothpick. For dried glue, carefully peel it off or, depending on the surface, use a small amount of acetone on a cotton swab.
Can I remove embellishments if I change my mind?
B7000 takes around 2 full days to cure completely, but it is definitely still possible to peel off embellishments after that. You can use a pair of tweezers to pry the embellishment off, but be careful with the surface of your item.
What embellishments work best?
Glass and resin rhinestones hold up well, as do quality flatback pearls and charms. Avoid anything too bulky or heavy, as it can come loose more easily.
How do I avoid glue strings while applying?
Apply with a precision tip. Also, let the glue “settle” slightly on the applicator before touching it to the accessory to minimize strings.
Can I use nail art rhinestones?
Yes! Nail art rhinestones, pearls, and mini charms work well for fine details. Just make sure to use a stronger adhesive than nail glue, like B7000, to ensure they stay in place on non-nail surfaces.
How do I bejewel fabric?
It all depends on the type of fabric that you are using. There are fabric specific glues that work better on some surfaces, and you will want to space your embellishments a little further apart to account for the flex in the fabric. There are also hotfix rhinestones, with glue already attached to the back and that you use a special heat tool to apply.