Rhinestoning your eyewear is one of the quickest ways to turn a plain pair of frames into a statement accessory, and the asymmetric style has become one of the most-requested looks. This guide walks through the technique step by step using Serinity flatback crystals, from preparing the frames to choosing the right mix of crystal sizes. The same approach works whether you are decorating sunglasses, reading glasses or fashion frames.
We at Bluestreak Crystals love offering sparkling inspiration on our social media channels, and every so often an idea catches on. By far the most popular customisation of recent months is the asymmetrical glasses look, featuring tiny non-hotfix rhinestones from our high-quality Serinity flatback crystals range. Below we share a few craft secrets from the Bluestreak Crystals studio so you can join the growing trend.
Step By Step Tutorial
- Begin by ensuring the surface of the glasses is clean and free from any grease, as this could interfere with the glue.
- Select the right glue for the material being embellished. CG500 Two-Part Epoxy Resin Glue is a good choice because it is strong and dries clear, solid and waterproof.
- Have the Serinity crystals stored ready in Magic Sorting Trays. It is a good idea to keep the different stone sizes separate using several trays.
- If the frames are shiny, carefully sand the surface with a file or sandpaper to create a rough key for the glue to grip. We recommend covering the lenses with masking tape to reduce the risk of scratching the glass.
- Apply a very thin layer of CG500 resin glue to the embellishment area and leave it approximately 15 minutes to get tacky.
- Gently place the flatback rhinestones onto the glue with the help of a Wax Picker Tool, which should be held like a pencil.
- We recommend using 4 to 5 different crystal sizes for a tight, well-blended embellishment. In our example we used Serinity Montana in sizes SS5 to SS12.
- Once all the crystals are in position, allow the glue several hours to dry and fully cure, ideally overnight depending on how thickly the glue was applied.
Get Everything You Need
All of the tools described in this tutorial are available on our website in the tools and accessories section. The Instagram clip below shows the embellishment in progress and started the trend:
FAQs
What size crystals are best for rhinestoning glasses?
SS5 (1.7mm) to SS12 (3.1mm) is the recommended size range for eyewear embellishment. Smaller crystals (SS5, SS6) follow the curves of the frame more naturally and produce a refined look; larger crystals (SS10, SS12) act as accent stones for visual punctuation. Using 4 to 5 different sizes in a single design creates a denser, more professional-looking embellishment than single-size coverage.
What is the best glue for rhinestones on glasses frames?
CG500 two-part epoxy resin glue is the strongest and most durable choice for rhinestones on glasses frames — it dries clear, waterproof and impact-resistant, ideal for an accessory worn daily. E6000 Plus is a good alternative for smaller projects. Avoid super glue (clouds crystal surfaces) and hot glue (does not bond reliably to polished plastic or metal frames).
Do I need to sand glasses frames before applying crystals?
Yes, if the frames are shiny — lightly sand the embellishment area with fine sandpaper or a nail file to break the surface seal and create a key for the glue to grip. Cover the lenses with masking tape to prevent scratching. Only sand sections that will be hidden under the crystals. Matte or textured frames typically do not need sanding.
How long does the glue take to dry on glasses?
CG500 resin gives several hours of working time and reaches full cure overnight (around 24 hours) for maximum bond strength. Do not handle or wear the embellished glasses during the cure period — movement during setting is the most common cause of crystals lifting. Once cured, the bond is waterproof and durable enough for everyday wear.
Can I put rhinestones on sunglasses?
Yes — sunglasses are one of the most popular eyewear embellishment projects. The asymmetric style (heavy embellishment on one side, plain on the other) is the standout trend, but symmetric and full-coverage designs also work well. Use the same CG500 resin and Serinity flatback crystals technique. Keep crystals away from the hinges and nose pads to maintain comfort and adjustability.
Will rhinestones stay on glasses with daily wear?
Yes — properly applied with CG500 resin onto sanded and cleaned frames, rhinestones withstand daily wear including handling, cleaning with a soft microfibre cloth, and storage in a hard case. Avoid using strong solvent cleaners on the embellished section, and rinse the frames gently with water after extended exposure to sweat or sunscreen. Keep a small stock of spare crystals for occasional reapplication over time.
