How to Embellish a Canvas Artwork with Swarovski Flatback Crystals

Adding crystals to a canvas painting can be a great way to make any piece stand out, whether you’re selling artwork on your online shop or taking it to a local art fair. But what does the process look like? In the following tutorial, we’re going to show you how to embellish a canvas artwork with Swarovski flatback crystals - let’s get started!

Planning your artwork

Before you begin the process of embellishing your canvas artwork with Swarovski flatback crystals, it is important to select an appropriate piece that will both complement the crystals and provide a suitable surface for adhesion. Ideally, the artwork should have a simple design with minimal textural elements, as this will make it easier to apply the crystals in a uniform manner. Additionally, the colour palette should be harmonious with the hues of the crystals you have chosen, so that they can enhance the overall aesthetic of the piece rather than detracting from it.

Gathering your materials 

To begin embellishing your canvas artwork with crystals, you’ll need to gather a few essential materials and tools. Firstly, you’ll need a selection of Swarovski flatback crystals in various sizes and colours to suit your chosen design - you can buy these directly from us at Bluestreak Crystals, as we’re an official Swarovski partner. Make sure you opt for  non-hotfix Swarovski flatback crystals, rather than hotfix crystals. Additionally, you’ll need a strong adhesive that is specifically formulated for use with flatback crystals, such as CG500 glue. When it comes to applying the adhesive, a small applicator tool or piping cone should do the trick. Lastly, you should have a clean, flat surface on which to work, as well as a soft cloth for wiping away any excess adhesive.

Preparing the canvas 

Before you begin the process of applying the crystals, it’s important to prepare the canvas so that the adhesive can adhere effectively. To do this, gently dust the surface of the canvas with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated. If the canvas is particularly dirty, you may need to clean it with a mild soap and water solution, ensuring that you allow it to dry completely before proceeding with the embellishment process. Additionally, it’s a good idea to lay down a protective layer - such as a sheet of paper or a plastic mat - beneath the canvas to prevent any adhesive residue from damaging your work surface.

Creating your design 

Once your canvas is clean and prepared, you can begin to plan your crystal design. This can be as simple or as intricate as you like, depending on your personal preference as well as your artistic ability. You may want to accentuate certain elements of the artwork, such as outlining shapes or adding highlights, or you might decide to create a completely new pattern or motif using the crystals. To aid in the design process, you can use a pencil to lightly sketch your desired pattern directly onto the canvas, ensuring that you have a clear plan in place before you begin applying the adhesive and crystals.

Applying the crystals 

With your design in place, it is time to begin the process of applying the flatback crystals to your canvas artwork. Using a small applicator tool or toothpick, apply a small dot of adhesive to the canvas in the desired location for each crystal. It’s important to work in small sections so that the adhesive does not have time to dry before the crystals are applied. Using your tweezers or crystal wand, gently pick up a crystal and place it onto the adhesive dot, pressing down lightly to ensure a secure bond. Continue this process until your entire design is complete, taking care to clean any excess adhesive with a soft cloth as you go. Once you’re finished, voila! Add some finishing touches, and you’ve got yourself a gorgeous, glittery, embellished artwork.

The tutorial below shows how to embellish a canvas artwork with Swarovski Flatback Crystals:

Take a look at the Bluestreak Crystals YouTube channel for this and many more tutorials, and SUBSCRIBE for weekly updates. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our customer service team.

Check out our most popular Swarovski Hotfix Flatback Crystals