Crystallising Converse trainers with Swarovski flatback crystals is one of the most distinctive ways to turn an everyday pair of shoes into a statement piece. This guide walks through the materials you need, the step-by-step technique for applying the crystals, and how to choose between Hotfix and non-Hotfix for the canvas fabric. Whether you are decorating your own trainers or creating a custom pair as a gift, the same approach works.
Whether you are a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a crafting novice, adding a sprinkle of sparkle to your everyday look can be both fun and rewarding. One trend that has caught the fashion world by storm is crystallised Converse trainers, and what better way to achieve this look than by using Swarovski crystals? Below we guide you through the steps to transform your favourite pair of trainers into a dazzling fashion statement.
DIY Swarovski Crystal Converse: What You'll Need
- A pair of Converse trainers
- Swarovski Flatback Crystals: the size and quantity will depend on your design, but sizes SS20 (4.7mm) or SS16 (3.9mm) are commonly used.
- Strong adhesive suitable for fabric and crystals, such as E6000 Plus. Browse our rhinestone glue collection for the right adhesive for canvas.
- Precision applicator or toothpicks for applying the adhesive.
- Tweezers or a wand tool for picking up and placing crystals.
- Wax paper or a clean work surface.
How to Attach Swarovski Crystals to Converse: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Clean your Converse
Before beginning, ensure your Converse trainers are clean and dry. Any dust or dirt can impede the adhesive's ability to bond with the fabric, potentially compromising the longevity of your design.
Step 2: Plan your design
Sketch out your desired design on a piece of paper. This will help you envision the final product and determine the amount of Swarovski crystals needed. You can opt for an intricate design covering the entire shoe or a minimalist approach with crystals highlighting specific areas.
Step 3: Prepare the workspace
Lay down wax paper to protect your workspace from any potential adhesive spills. Gather all your materials within reach. This setup facilitates a smooth working process and helps prevent misplacement of crystals or tools.
Step 4: Apply the adhesive
Using your precision applicator or toothpick, apply a small amount of adhesive to the spot where you want your first crystal. A small dot is typically enough; remember, the goal is to adhere the crystal, not to soak the fabric in glue.
Step 5: Position the crystal
Pick up a Swarovski flatback crystal using tweezers or a Crystal Katana tool. Carefully place it on the glue dot. Press lightly to ensure the crystal adheres properly.
Step 6: Repeat
Continue the process, applying adhesive and placing crystals until your design comes to life. Be patient: this can be a time-consuming process, but the end result will be worth it.
Step 7: Allow to dry
Once all the crystals are in place, let your trainers dry for at least 24 hours. This ensures the glue has completely set and your crystals are firmly attached.
Watch our rhinestone embellishment tutorial
We have created a tutorial which shows how you can glue Swarovski Flatback Crystals to your Converse Trainers:
Should I use Non-Hotfix or Hotfix Crystals for Converse?
When it comes to choosing between non-Hotfix and Hotfix Swarovski crystals, the right call depends on your preference and the tools you have to hand. Both types can be used effectively to adorn your Converse trainers, but there are a few differences to consider.
Swarovski Hotfix flatback crystals are equipped with a heat-activated adhesive on the back. When heat is applied, the glue melts and bonds with the fabric. To attach Hotfix crystals, you need a Hotfix applicator or an iron. The advantage of Hotfix is that the heat-activated adhesive is usually stronger than standard glue. However, because Converse trainers are made of canvas, a material that can scorch under high heat, using Hotfix may pose a risk of damaging your shoes.
Swarovski non-Hotfix flatback crystals, by contrast, require an adhesive to stick to the fabric. The advantage here is that you have control over the amount of glue used and you avoid potential heat damage to your shoes. E6000 Plus adhesive is often recommended for this task due to its strength and flexibility, and it dries clear so your design is not marred by visible glue.
For Converse trainers, using non-Hotfix crystals with a strong adhesive is the safer and more convenient choice, especially for DIY beginners. This method is less likely to damage the shoe fabric and does not require special tools apart from the adhesive and a tool to pick and place the crystals. Regardless of the method you choose, the key is patience and precision to create a lasting, beautiful design.
For a deeper look at applying crystals to all kinds of fabric, see our ultimate guide to applying crystals onto fabric.
FAQs
How do you crystallise Converse trainers?
1) Clean the canvas with isopropyl alcohol. 2) Plan the design on paper. 3) Apply small dots of E6000 Plus adhesive at each crystal placement point. 4) Pick up each non-hotfix flatback crystal flat-side down with a wax pencil or tweezers and press onto the adhesive. 5) Work outer edge inward for the cleanest finish. 6) Allow 24-72 hours full cure before wearing.
What size crystals are best for Converse?
SS16 (3.9mm) and SS20 (4.7mm) are the most popular sizes for Converse trainers — large enough to make visual impact on canvas without overwhelming the shoe design. For detailed pattern designs, use SS10-SS12. For statement focal stones use SS30+. Mixing 2-3 sizes (e.g. SS12 base coverage with SS20 accents) creates the most professional finish on standard Converse Chuck Taylor styles.
Should I use hotfix or non-hotfix crystals on Converse?
Use non-hotfix crystals with E6000 Plus adhesive for Converse trainers. The canvas fabric can scorch under hotfix application temperatures (130-150°C), and the rubber sole and toe cap cannot tolerate heat at all. Non-hotfix gives more control, no heat damage risk, and produces a bond just as durable as hotfix when properly applied and allowed to cure fully.
What is the best glue for crystals on Converse?
E6000 Plus is the recommended adhesive for crystals on Converse canvas — industrial-strength, flexible (essential for canvas that flexes with movement), waterproof and dries clear. For the rubber sole and toe cap areas, CG500 two-component resin delivers the strongest possible bond on rubber. Allow 24-72 hours for E6000 Plus full cure, or overnight for CG500.
How many crystals do I need for a pair of Converse?
For a partial design covering one side panel using SS16, expect 100-200 crystals per shoe. For full toe-cap embellishment using SS16-SS20 mixed sizes, expect 200-400 per shoe. For full coverage across the entire canvas upper using SS16, expect 800-1,500+ per shoe. Use the Bluestreak crystal calculator and order 10-15% extra for design adjustments.
Can crystallised Converse be worn in the rain?
Yes, once the adhesive has fully cured (72 hours for E6000 Plus). The bond becomes waterproof after curing. However, prolonged exposure to heavy rain and full immersion are not recommended — wipe the trainers with a damp cloth rather than washing under running water. Avoid the washing machine, which can dislodge crystals through agitation. Air dry after any moisture exposure.
How long do crystals last on Converse trainers?
With proper application using E6000 Plus on a clean canvas surface, crystals last 2-5+ years of regular wear before any loss. Premium crystals like Swarovski maintain brilliance throughout. Crystal loss usually indicates insufficient surface cleaning, insufficient cure time, or wearing the trainers before the adhesive fully set. Always keep spare crystals to replace any that come off over time.
