For a fun crystal project to keep you entertained during the Easter break, try decorating a wooden trinket box with craft rhinestones. We have chosen to add non hotfix crystals to this pretty floral cut out design box that we found at The Works, but you can choose whatever you like to decorate. They have all sorts of Easter and Spring themed items, from wooden signs, baskets and boxes to Easter chick and bunny decorations. I was drawn to this eye-catching box because the intricate detail of the lid reminded me of a spring flower in bloom.
For this project I am using a mix of Zodiac and Preciosa rhinestones – Zodiac are a high quality crystal brand and they are affordable and easy to work with, ideal for a craft project. They have a brilliant range of colours, but as I wanted this to be mainly pastel shades, I have used some of the Preciosa opal crystals too.
You Will Need:
- Craft glue e.g Gem Tac
- Crystal Katana or other pick up tool
- Applicator syringe
- Rhinestones in your colours of choice
Handy How To Guide:
- Before you start, make sure you have a clean, flat surface area to work on with plenty of natural light. Pour a little of the glue (about 2cm worth) into the syringe and screw on the tip – this allows you to apply the glue in tiny amounts without making a mess or wasting any.
- Starting in the centre of the pattern, squeeze out tiny dots of glue, 10 – 12 at a time, then using the pick up tool, simply pick up the rhinestone shiny side up and place it down on the glue dot. Do this for each dot, making sure the rhinestone is sat flat on the surface.
- For my design, I used lots of different coloured crystals in 4mm and 5mm, the size you choose depends on the width of the area you are embellishing. If you are unsure on rhinestones sizes, read our handy guide here. I glued on the rhinestones one colour at a time, allowing the glue to dry a little before I started the next colour. For the centre of the flower I chose clear crystals, light sapphire opal and light sapphire.
- I continued this method until I reached the edge of the lid, to fill the gaps I added a few smaller sized crystals of the matching colour. I love the ombre effect of the flower, with the petals turning pink then peach at the edge. For this I used violet, light pink and champagne.
- Once you are happy with the final design, allow the glue to dry fully (it will go clear) before you start using it.
I’m really pleased with the results, it makes a beautiful trinket or jewellery box which would be a lovely hand made gift for a friend or loved one.
For more embellishing tips, how to guides and creative project ideas, check out our blog and don’t forget to take advantage of the 15% off Zodiac offer by entering code ZODIAC15 at the checkout.
