Rhinestone transfers are a brilliant way to personalise clothing, accessories, sportswear, team or work uniforms. Whether you're a small business owner looking to add sparkle to your logo, a parent planning a fun afternoon craft with the kids, or an entrepreneur wanting to embellish items to sell, rhinestone transfers are a quick, simple and enjoyable way to get creative.
One of the reasons rhinestone transfers are so popular, is how simple they are to create. Once you know how to make a rhinestone transfer, and have the correct tools, you'll find it's an easy process that delivers a professional finish. You can add instant sparkle to just about anything – from tote bags and T-shirts to dancewear and make-up pouches.
If you're wondering what type of rhinestones to use for a transfer, we recommend using Preciosa or Zodiac hotfix crystals. These are perfect for making transfers as they come with heat-activated glue on the back, making them suitable for almost all fabrics. Hotfix rhinestones for clothing are especially popular with dance teams, sports clubs, and small businesses who want to customise their outfits or uniforms with an extra touch of bling.
Making your own rhinestone transfer means you can completely tailor the design – choose the colours, shapes, and layout that suits your style. It's cost-effective, flexible, and a fun way to bring your ideas to life.
Of course, there are pros and cons. The pros include having full creative control, saving money on custom printing, and being able to reuse your design. It's also a great activity to enjoy with others, especially if you love crafts. On the downside, it can take a little practice to perfect your technique, and you'll need the right tools and workspace to get started. However, once you've had a go, you'll realise just how straightforward it is to work with hotfix rhinestones for transfers.
In the next section, we'll show you exactly how to make your own rhinestone transfer step by step – let the sparkle begin!
Tools you will need
Before starting any bedazzling projects, you must make sure you have all the right tools for the job, a well lit area to work in and a flat surface to lean on. To make your rhinestone transfer, you will need:
- Hotfix transfer film
- Hotfix rhinestones in your brand of choice.
- Pick up tool – we suggest a wax pencil for a great budget friendly option. If you are planning to make transfers as part of your business and will be making them in bulk, we recommend a more professional and durable tool such as the Crystal Katana.
- Flipper Tray (optional) – these handy trays are great for keeping your rhinestones in. Give them a quick shake and the stones will flip over the right way, making it quicker for you to pick up and place.
- Your template/design marked out on paper
- Heatpress or household iron – a normal household iron works well for small or one off transfers, if you are making multiple transfers, you may want to consider using a heatpress which is quicker.
- Baking paper
Step-by-step guide
- Start by pouring your hotfix rhinestones into the flipper tray, give them a gentle shake and they will turn the right way up (shiny side facing upwards). If you're not using a tray, have them somewhere close by, ready to start picking up.
- Peel off the shiny top layer of transfer film, and place the remaining layer over the top of your design. If it helps you can use tape to secure it to your work surface.
- Use the wax pencil to pick up the first rhinestone and place it, shiny side upwards, on the film. Use your template as a guide.
- Choose how close together you want to place the crystals, we would suggest leaving a small gap, rather than allowing them to touch. This allows maximum chance for the glue to adhere properly. Ensure that the gap is the same between each stone, unless your design dictates otherwise.
- Continue following the design, making sure you are happy with the placement of the rhinestones. *TIP* you can adjust the position of the rhinestones using a cocktail stick.
- Make sure you stick closely to your design, if you want to make any changes, do this before replacing the top layer of film in step 8.
- When creating letters or words, the rhinestones can be placed closer together to form the letter accurately. If the letter has a curve, such as 'S' you could try using smaller rhinestones for a smoother flow.
- Once you have finished applying the rhinestones and are happy with the final design, carefully replace the top layer of the transfer film (sticky side down). Using the palm of your hand, smooth out the film and apply gentle pressure to ensure all the crystals stick to it.
- Test the rhinestones have adhered properly, by pulling back one corner of the top layer and checking that the stones are coming with it. If some haven't stuck, repeat the previous step. If they have stuck, peel the entire top layer off carefully.
- Apply the now crystallised film to your fabric, ensuring you are happy with the position.
- If using a heatpress, place the fabric onto the plate, keeping it smooth and flat. If using an iron, do the same thing on the ironing board.
- Cover the film and fabric with baking paper – this protects it from the heat, while still allowing the heat to penetrate through to melt the glue on the rhinestones. If using an iron, DO NOT have the steam function on, as this may loosen the stones. Evenly iron over the top of the baking paper for around 30 seconds, but do not keep the iron in the same position for more than 5 seconds. Peel back the corner of the film to check if the rhinestones have stuck, if not, keep ironing until they do.
- Once finished, peel off the top layer of film – the rhinestones should stay in place on the fabric.
- That's it – you have just made your first rhinestone transfer! As easy as that.
To maintain the quality and durability of the transfer, check out these guides on how to wash and store your garment.
- Maintain hotfix rhinestone embellishments: Care tips
- Our top tips for washing items that have rhinestones
- Preserving rhinestone clothing: Tips for long lasting shine
And don't forget, if you need any help with making your own transfer, whether it's advice on which crystals to use, how many you might need or anything else, make sure you contact us – we're happy to help!
