Rhinestone basics: types, sizes and layouts
Bedazzling is the decorating process. Rhinestones are one of the materials used to create the sparkle.
Non-hotfix vs hotfix
| Type | How it attaches | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Non-hotfix flatback | A separate compatible adhesive | Both surface and backing compatibility |
| Hotfix | Pre-applied adhesive activated by heat | Supplier's temperature, application and substrate instructions |
| Sew-on | Thread through attachment holes | Fabric, thread and hole placement |
Do not substitute a hotfix process for a glue-on case project. Heat can damage plastic and coatings.
Read sizes in millimeters
SS means stone size, a sizing convention used by suppliers. It is not a measurement in millimeters. Listings may give slightly different nominal diameters; use the seller's chart and check a sample before printing a size-sensitive design.
| Diameter | Planning implication |
|---|---|
| 2 mm | More positions in a given area; finer detail. |
| 3 mm | The size used by our starter templates. |
| 4–6 mm | Fewer positions in a given area; larger motifs. |
Straight or offset rows?
Straight rows align horizontally and vertically. Offset rows shift alternate rows by half a stone's diameter. For equal circular stones with no gap, the offset arrangement packs more tightly over a sufficiently large area. Real edges, openings and gaps change the result.
Gross and pack counts
One gross is 144 stones. A package labeled 10 gross contains 1,440 stones if the supplier uses that unit literally. Other packs use counts or weight. Check the listing rather than assuming every bag contains the same number.
← Explore more guides