Rhinestone FAQ

  1. What's the difference between Glass and Resin?
    You might have heard of glass or resin stones. Artificial rhinestones can be divided into two categories: crystal/glass rhinestones and plastic rhinestones, which are made of either acrylic or resin and sometimes both (jelly)!

    Glass stones are denser and therefore heavier than plastic. Plastic stones are lighter and take less energy to produce, can be recycled and are effectively more environmentally friendly. Glass stones do contain lead in small amounts which is what gives them their bright reflection and texture. Glass is often the first choice for professional and semi-professional blingers.

    Resin stones can come in a variety of colours just like glass as well as different coatings ie AB. My suppliers’ stones are made of acrylic & resin and made by a mould that allows them to be brighter and reflect light.

 

  1. How many stones do I need to complete a cup?
    It depends on a few things - the size of the stones you choose and the design method. There is the honeycomb where you use all the same size stones and lay them against each other in a way that resembles a honeycomb. Then there is the scatter method where you use all different sized stones and mix them as you lay them on. The honeycomb uses fewer stones and for a 20oz skinny you will need roughly 3-4 bags - if you choose SS20's then you will have lots of leftover and if you use SS16's then less leftover. The larger the stone the less you will need. You may wish to purchase a bag of smaller-sized stones to fill in any gaps that might occur as you make your way around your project.

    If you choose to do the scatter method then you will need about 3900-4800 stones depending on the sizes you select. Try to stick to around 3 varying sizes - medium SS12 and larger like an SS16 and SS20. My preference is one bag of each SS12, SS16 and SS20 or 3mm/4mm/5mm if using resin. I do suggest you get an extra bag of one of the larger stones just in case, because accidents do happen.

  2. What glue should I use?
    The most popular and all-around used glue is Liquid Fusion. Liquid Fusion goes on clear and dries clear.

  3. How do I prep my surface?
    Prepping your surface is essential to the longevity of your project. The glue you use must have something to grip onto and thus giving every project a light sand will aid in this process. Using 220 grit sandpaper is recommended. Wash off the dust with plain water avoiding dish wash liquid that can leave residue behind that could interfere with your glue adhesion.

    Painting or colouring your base is not required but can enhance the look of your project. When you apply your stones there will be gaps between them - this is unavoidable. Basing your project with a colour that matches or coordinates with your stones will aid in hiding these gaps and bring out the colour of your final project. Adding glitter to your base gives extra bling
  • What do I need to get started?
  • Glass or jelly/resin stones or flat-back pearls...or a little bit of everything!
  • Adhesive
  • Picker tool to pick up your stones
  • Shaker tray to sort and help flip over your stones/pearls
  • Something to bling! Tumbler, phone grip, phone case, pen, shoes ....whatever you want!
  • Sandpaper 220 grit
  • Good lighting and maybe a magnifying glass of your eyesight is poor
  • We do sell starter packs to help get you on your way to blinging cups