How to Bedazzle Your Jeans with Rhinestones: A Step-by-Step Guide

There’s something about rhinestones on denim that just works. Maybe it’s the throwback to Y2K fashion (hello, Destiny’s Child era). Maybe it’s the way they catch the light just right. Either way, bedazzled jeans are back—and they’re not just for themed parties or TikTok trends. They’re wearable, customisable, and surprisingly easy to DIY.

Here’s how to get started.

Why Bedazzled Jeans Are Making a Comeback

Fashion, like your favourite pop star's comeback tour, loves a revival. And right now? 2000s glam is in. But today’s version of rhinestone-studded denim isn’t about doing a full-on costume. It’s about subtle sparkle. A bit of dazzle at the pocket corners. A glint at the ankle hem. Or—if you’re bold—a full design sprawling across the back like wings (no judgment).

What we love about it? It’s custom. No one else will have the same pair. And if you mess up? You call it "artsy."

What You’ll Need to Bedazzle Your Jeans

Let’s get practical. Here’s your shopping list:

• A pair of jeans (vintage works great, but any denim will do)
• Flat back rhinestones
• Strong glue (e.g., Gem-Tac or E6000)
• A wax pencil or rhinestone applicator
• Tweezers (optional, but useful)
• Scrap paper or cardboard (to protect the inside of your jeans)
• Ruler or measuring tape (if you're into symmetry—we respect both chaos and order here)

Choosing the Right Rhinestones and Tools

There are so many options when it comes to rhinestones. Crystals, glass, acrylic... brands like Swarovski, Preciosa, Zodiac. It’s a bit like walking into a sweet shop. Our advice? Go for quality. Crystals with more facets = more sparkle. It’s that simple.

For versatile, high-shine embellishments for any design, our Flat Back collection is your best friend. These crystals are perfect for clothing projects and come in just about every colour and shape imaginable.

When it comes to tools, don’t overthink it. A simple rhinestone picker or even a wax pencil will do the job. Just make sure you have good lighting. And patience. Mostly patience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Bedazzling Your Jeans

Step 1 – Wash and Dry Your Jeans

We know. It’s the boring bit. But seriously, you need a clean surface for the glue to stick properly. Skip the fabric softener (it can interfere with adhesion).

Step 2 – Plan Your Design

Lay your jeans flat and play around with your rhinestones before committing. Want a starburst? A line of sparkle down the side seams? A secret heart on the inside cuff? Go wild. Or minimal. Whatever feels right.

Tip: take a photo of your planned layout before you start gluing—just in case.

Step 3 – Set Up Your Workspace

Protect your surface. Put a piece of cardboard inside the leg to stop glue seeping through. Lay out your tools. Maybe light a candle (optional, but vibey).

Step 4 – Apply the Rhinestones

Use your applicator to pick up a rhinestone, dab a tiny bit of glue on the back, and press it firmly onto the fabric. Repeat. Try not to glue your sleeve to the jeans. It happens.

Start from the middle of your design and work outward. This helps keep everything centred and balanced.

Step 5 – Let It Dry and Set

Drying times vary by glue, but overnight is best. Be gentle—no trying them on just yet.

Tips for Long-Lasting Bedazzled Jeans

Washing Instructions

Turn your jeans inside out before washing. Hand-washing is safest, but if you must machine wash, use a mesh bag and go gentle. Cold water only.

Avoid High Heat

Heat weakens glue. Air dry your jeans, and skip the tumble dryer. (Also, why are you still using a tumble dryer in 2025?)

Storage Advice

Hang or fold carefully. Don’t throw them in a pile of laundry. Treat them like the wearable art they are.

Creative Ideas to Customize Your Look

Add Colorful Rhinestones or Beads

Mix in some colour! Blues, pinks, neon accents—we’re not in 2012 anymore, but a little chaos never hurt.

Combine with Embroidery or Fabric Paint

Layer your embellishments. A painted motif with rhinestone accents? Yes. Flowers with crystal centres? Also yes.

Make a Matching Denim Jacket or Bag

Why stop at jeans? Denim accessories are having a moment. Use the same stones to create a co-ord set. It’s giving fashion student at their final show—in the best way.

Oh, and if you're curious how rhinestones look on shoes, check out our guide to bedazzle your sneakers with rhinestones. Because once you start, it's hard to stop.

Final Thoughts

So, ready to take your denim from "meh" to magnetic? Bedazzling your jeans is equal parts craft and self-expression. There are no rules—just sparkle. Whether you go for a subtle accent or full-on drama, make it yours.

And when you're ready to stock up on rhinestones, you know where to go. We’ll be here with sparkle, support, and enough crystal options to make your head spin.

(But in a good way.)