Calling all equestrians looking to add some sparkle. This guide shows you how to bedazzle a riding hat with shimmering Serinity non-hotfix flatback crystals, turning a practical piece of kit into a standout, personalised one. It is a fun way to make your hat your own, whether for the yard, a show or just for the love of sparkle.
It is a straightforward, if patient, embellishment project. Here is everything you need, then the full method.
Project at a glance
- Difficulty: Intermediate (large curved area to cover)
- Time: Several hours over a session or two, plus at least 12 hours to cure
- Crystals used: Serinity flatbacks in Silver Night, sizes SS12, SS16 and SS20
- Best crystal type: Non-hotfix flatbacks, glue-set to the shell
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 full coverage of a riding hat, so scale them to yours and your design. Add the crystals, glue and tools to your cart from the cards below. The picker and trays are reusable across every project, so browse the full range of tools and accessories to build your kit.
- Riding hatYour base, see note below1
- Serinity Non-Hotfix Flatbacks SS20, Silver NightMain coverage2880
- Serinity Non-Hotfix Flatbacks SS16, Silver NightDetail and curves50
- Serinity Non-Hotfix Flatbacks SS12, Silver NightAwkward spaces50
- E6000 Plus Glue KitAdhesive with syringe1
- Wax Crystal Picker PenPlacing crystals1
- Magic Sorting TrayOrganising sizes3
Shop this project
Everything you need for this build. Quantities are a guide, so adjust to your design.
From £2.47 Excl. VAT
£1.95 Excl. VAT
£5.12 Excl. VAT
£9.53 Excl. VAT
Not sure how many crystals you need? Use our Crystal Calculator to estimate by surface area.
How to bedazzle a riding hat
Step 1: Gather your supplies and prepare the glue
Lay everything out and tip your flatbacks into the sorting trays, keeping each size in its own tray. Transfer a small amount of E6000 glue into the syringe for better control, taking care not to overfill it, which causes air bubbles. If you see bubbles, gently squeeze out the air and a little glue before you start.
Step 2: Map out your design
Before gluing, plan your placement. This matters most around the smaller, awkward and curved areas of the hat, so working out your layout first is the key to a smooth, even finish.
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. Cover the broad areas with the SS20 crystals, and switch to the smaller SS16 and SS12 sizes for the curves and awkward spaces, keeping your placement as neat as you can. Lift each crystal with the wax picker.
Step 4: Inspect and adjust
Once your crystals are placed, check your work and nudge any 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 hat to cure for at least 12 hours so the bond is fully set before you wear it.
Frequently asked questions
How do you bedazzle a riding hat?
Clean the shell, plan your layout, then glue flatback crystals on one at a time with a strong adhesive, lifting each with a wax picker. Work in sections, use smaller crystals around the curves and vents, then leave it to cure fully before wearing.
Is it safe to put crystals on a riding hat?
Decorate the outer shell only, and keep crystals clear of the harness, vents and any safety markings. Crystals and glue on the outside are cosmetic, but never alter the helmet's structure, and if your hat is competition certified, check the rules and the maker's guidance, as some bodies restrict modifications.
What crystals work best on a curved helmet?
A mix of sizes. Larger flatbacks cover the broad, flatter areas quickly, while smaller sizes sit neatly around the tight curves, edges and awkward spaces. We used Serinity flatbacks in Silver Night across SS12, SS16 and SS20 for full coverage.
What glue should I use, hotfix or non-hotfix?
Use non-hotfix, glue-set flatbacks with a flexible, industrial-strength adhesive like E6000. Never apply heat to a safety helmet, so hotfix crystals are not suitable. Apply the glue sparingly so it does not squeeze up around the stones.
How many crystals do I need to cover a riding hat?
A lot more than a small project, as a hat is a large, curved surface. This full-coverage design used around 2880 SS20 flatbacks plus smaller sizes for the detail areas. Use our Crystal Calculator to estimate by area before you buy so you order enough in one batch.
Can I change the colour?
Yes. Silver Night gives a smoky, elegant sparkle, but any shade works, from clear crystal to bold colours to match your riding colours. We used our own Austrian-made Serinity flatbacks; you can also use premium Swarovski, Czech-made Preciosa or budget Estella.
Make it your own
Add as many or as few crystals as you like, from a scattered constellation to full coverage, and match the colour to your riding colours. For more crystal embellishment, see our bedazzled high heels and crystal claw clip projects, or explore the full Craft Studio.
