Gluing crystals onto metal and other shiny or awkwardly shaped surfaces takes a little preparation, but the results are well worth it. In this short guide we share the tips and tricks we used to cover a metal microphone in rhinestones, tackling its cylindrical shape, slippery surface and hard-to-reach areas. The same techniques will help you take on even the most ambitious crystal embellishment projects.
At Bluestreak Crystals we believe crystals can transform any object, but a shiny surface often needs preparation, and an awkward shape can leave you unsure where to start. We love a challenge in the Bluestreak Studio, so we set out to bedazzle this tricky rhinestone project and document exactly how we did it.
Preparation
First, we made sure the surface was clean and disassembled the microphone, because the multiple moving parts would only get in the way. As the surface is shiny, we buffed the areas we planned to bedazzle with sandpaper, being careful to only sand the parts that would be hidden under the rhinestones. This roughens the metal and provides a "key" for the glue to grip on to.
Which Glue To Use
Now that the surface is rough, there are several glue options. You can use CG500 Two Part Epoxy Resin Glue, which sets solid, hard-wearing and water-resistant, making it the preferred choice of many crystal tumbler embellishers. You can also use Ninja SuperTite Fusion Tack, which is designed to work on multiple surfaces ranging from fabric to glass and dries faster than the resin glue.
Serinity Flatback Crystals
We made sure our crystals were stored safely in a Magic Sorting Tray, ready for embellishment before we applied any glue. For this project we used Serinity Flatback Crystals in SS16 Blue Zircon Shimmer, SS16 Royal Blue DeLite, SS16 Sapphire and SS16 Sapphire AB. To apply them we used the Wax Picker Pen, which makes picking up and placing rhinestones as easy as writing with a pencil.
On 3D or irregular shapes, it is important to place the crystals strategically and in the right order. On the base we started on the outside edge and worked our way into the centre, and on the microphone we used a ruler to give ourselves a straight edge on which to build the rest of the design. We used the metal tip of the Picker Pen to nudge the flatback crystals into any tricky areas, and on the cylinder we worked in sections, letting each section dry before continuing so that our hand would not displace any previously positioned crystals.
FAQs
What is the best glue for sticking rhinestones to metal?
CG500 two-part epoxy resin is the strongest adhesive for rhinestones on metal, drying clear, water-resistant and rock-hard for long-term durability. E6000 Plus is the all-purpose alternative for smaller projects, while Gem-Tac suits temporary embellishments. Always sand the metal surface first to give the glue a key to grip.
How do you prepare a metal surface before gluing crystals?
Clean the metal with isopropyl alcohol to remove grease, then lightly sand any area that will be covered with crystals using 240-grit sandpaper or a nail buffer. This roughens the shiny surface and creates a "key" for the glue to grip. Only sand sections that will be hidden under the rhinestones to avoid visible scratches.
Can you bedazzle a microphone with rhinestones?
Yes — disassemble the microphone first to remove moving parts and the grille mesh, then sand and clean the metal body. Use CG500 epoxy resin and work in small sections on the cylindrical shape, letting each section dry before rotating the microphone. Reassemble once fully cured overnight.
What size rhinestones work best on curved metal surfaces?
SS12 and SS16 flatback crystals are the most versatile sizes for curved metal surfaces such as microphones, drinks bottles and tumblers. They are large enough to lay flush against gentle curves without gaps, and small enough to follow tight contours. SS6 to SS10 work better for finer detail areas and edges.
How long does CG500 resin take to cure on metal?
CG500 epoxy resin gives several hours of working time and reaches full cure overnight — around 24 hours for maximum bond strength. Once cured, the bond is water-resistant and impact-resistant, ideal for handled items like microphones, drinks bottles and trophies that will be touched and moved regularly.
Will rhinestones stay on a microphone with regular use?
Yes — properly applied with CG500 resin onto a sanded and cleaned metal surface, rhinestones will withstand regular performance use, transport in a case and gentle wiping with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals and machine washing, and keep a small quantity of spare crystals in case any stones need reapplication over time.
