This guide shows you how to bedazzle a pocket mirror with sparkling Preciosa non-hotfix flatback crystals, transforming an everyday item into a shimmering, personalised piece. It is a fun, satisfying embellishment project that makes a lovely gift or a little luxury for your bag.
It is an easy, beginner-friendly make. Here is everything you need, then the full method.
Project at a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Time: Around an hour, plus at least 12 hours to cure
- Crystals used: Preciosa flatbacks in Capri Gold, size SS20
- Best crystal type: Non-hotfix flatbacks, glue-set to the casing
Watch the tutorial
See this project come together. Watch the full make below, then scroll down for the kit list and step-by-step instructions.
What you'll need
Quantities suit a small pocket mirror, so scale them to yours. Add the crystals, glue and tools to your cart from the cards below. The picker and tray are reusable across every project, so browse the full range of tools and accessories to build your kit.
- Pocket mirror or compactYour base, see note below1
- Preciosa Non-Hotfix Flatbacks SS20, Capri GoldCovering the casing150
- E6000 Plus Glue KitAdhesive with syringe1
- Wax Crystal Picker PenPlacing crystals1
- Magic Sorting TrayOrganising crystals1
Shop this project
Everything you need for this build. Quantities are a guide, so adjust to your design.
From Ā£3.77 Excl. VAT
Ā£1.95 Excl. VAT
Ā£5.12 Excl. VAT
Ā£9.53 Excl. VAT
Not sure how many crystals you need? Use our Crystal Calculator to estimate by surface area.
How to bedazzle a pocket mirror
Step 1: Gather your supplies
Tip your flatbacks into the sorting tray so they are easy to reach. Make sure the tip of your wax picker is sharp, which makes lifting each crystal easier, then load your E6000 glue into the syringe.
Step 2: Map out your design
Before gluing, plan your placement, which matters most on smaller and awkward shapes. For a round mirror, the neatest approach is to start from the outer edge and work your way inwards.
Step 3: Place the crystals
Apply the glue a little at a time, using just enough to hold each stone, as too much looks messy. Because a mirror casing can be slippery, wait around five minutes after applying the glue before pressing on each crystal, so they grip rather than slide. Lift each crystal into place with the wax picker.
Step 4: Inspect and adjust
Once everything is placed, check your work and nudge any crystals into line before the glue sets. It is far easier to adjust now than once it has dried.
Step 5: Leave to cure
Leave the mirror to cure for at least 12 hours so the bond is fully set before you use it.
Frequently asked questions
How do you bedazzle a pocket mirror?
Clean the surface, plan your layout, then glue flatback crystals on one at a time with a strong adhesive, lifting each with a wax picker. For a round mirror, work from the outer edge inwards so the rim stays even, then leave it to cure fully before use.
What surface works best for a crystal mirror?
The flat back or lid of a compact or pocket mirror, in metal or plastic. Whatever the material, clean and degrease it first so the glue grips well. Avoid covering the reflective glass itself; the crystals go on the casing.
What glue should I use on a mirror?
A flexible, industrial-strength adhesive like E6000. Mirror casings can be smooth and slippery, so it helps to apply the glue and then wait around five minutes for it to become tacky before pressing on each crystal, which stops them sliding.
How do you cover a circular shape neatly with crystals?
Start at the outer edge and work inwards in rings. Following the circle keeps the outer rim clean and even, and you can adjust the spacing as you spiral towards the centre so there are no awkward gaps.
How many crystals do I need for a pocket mirror?
It depends on the size of the mirror. This design uses around 150 SS20 flatbacks to cover a small mirror back densely. Use our Crystal Calculator to estimate by area before you buy, so you order enough in one go for a consistent batch.
Should I use hotfix or non-hotfix, and which colours?
Non-hotfix, glue-set flatbacks, since heat could damage a plastic mirror casing. We used Preciosa in Capri Gold for a warm, golden shimmer, but any colour works. You can also use premium Swarovski, our own Austrian-made Serinity, or budget Estella.
Make it your own
Try ombre colours, a pattern, or a single statement shade, and bedazzle to match your other accessories. For more everyday sparkle, see our crystal claw clip and phone case projects, or explore the full Craft Studio.
