Flatback Rhinestones

Rhinestones are multi faceted crystals the most popular of which are made by Preciosa or Swarovski. Preciosa are a Czech company who manufacture precision-cut lead glass crystals widely used throughout the world, they have been established since 1948 and offer high quality flat back rhinestones. Swarovski crystals are synonymous with high quality and are the favourite choice of many of the Worlds top fashion designers. Swarovski an Austrian company was formed in 1895 when Daniel Swarovski invented a high quality precision glass cutting technique followed by a machine that polished crystal glass.

Un-foiled
These rhinestones have no backing just a plain crystal, so that you can look through the crystal. They are mostly used for jewellery where they are mounted within a setting.

Sew On
Sew on flat backs as the name suggests have holes through the sides of the rhinestone to allow them to be stitched into a fabric. They can also be attached by the use of an adhesive if required.

Foiled
These rhinestones have a silver foil backing which provides a good bonding surface for adhesive to stick to when attaching them to an item. The silver foil also reflects light to make them more sparkly. The most popular method of attaching them is to use the correct adhesive for the surface you are attaching them to.

Hotfix
Hotfix rhinestones have a silver foil backing with glue on top and therefore don't require any additional adhesive. To attach them you can use a normal household stem iron to melt the glue or a hotfix applicator, which is a small hand, held wand that has changeable tips for different size rhinestones. The rhinestone is placed in the tip which heats the glue and the rhinestone can then be pressed on to the desired surface.

Further reading: Choosing the right Swarovski crystal rhinestones

Clothing: - Both hotfix and non hotfix are suitable to attach the non hotfix you can use, E6000 or Gemtac glue.

Greeting cards / Wedding Stationery: - Again you can use both hotfix and non hotfix, I have found that non hotfix are easier to use. To apply them use tweezers or a Jewel Setter Tool to pick up the rhinestone, dip a cotton bud into the adhesive and coat the back of the rhinestone then press it onto the card.

Mobile phones / gadgets: - Non hotfix are most suitable and can be applied with Gemtac glue or E6000, make sure to scuff the plastic surface before applying the rhinestones as it will give a better bonding.

Flip flops: The same as mobile phones.

Note: E6000 is stronger than Gemtac Glue but the fumes are harmful, so care should be taken when using the adhesive. Gemtac Glue is safer to use and much like E6000 dries to form a clear rubber which is washable.