Tools & Accessories

Tools & Accessories for All Things Rhinestones

Rhinestones are more than sparkle — they’re craftsmanship, precision, and artistry. With the right tools, you place faster, cleaner, and more securely — so every piece shines like a champion.

Why Tools Matter

Accuracy

Place stones neatly and consistently — fewer re-dos, cleaner finish.

Speed

Right tool = faster flow. Prep, place, cure — smooth and efficient.

Durability

Less handling damage, better bonds, and long-lasting brilliance.

Application Methods at a Glance:
Non-Hotfix stones → use with glue
Hotfix stones → apply with heat
Sew-On stones → attach with thread
Choose the method that fits your fabric & project — each has matching LS tools and guides.

Pick-Up Tools (Precision Placement)

Beeswax Stick

Simple, budget-friendly pick-up: a small bead of beeswax on a stick lifts and releases stones reliably.

Great starter option — minimal setup, works across sizes.

LEOPARD STRASS Sparkle Picker

Our recommended, smoother pick-up & release across SS6–SS40 and shapes. Balanced feel for long sessions.

Shop: Sparkle Picker

Tweezers (fine/angled)

Perfect for micro-adjustments, turning stones, and lifting misplacements without smearing glue.

Application Surfaces & Work Mats

Silicone Mat

Heat-resistant, non-stick, easy cleanup. Protects tables for glue and hotfix work.

Bead / Anti-Static Mat

Prevents stones rolling away; keeps layouts tidy while you work.

Sorting Tray (Flip-Assist)

Ridges help stones fall facet-up. Tip a small batch in, then shake & tap lightly: most flip right-side-up for fast picking.

Shop: Rhinestone Sorting Tray

LS Pro Tip: Our packaging boxes are sturdy and reusable — ideal mini-organisers for refills and long-term storage.

Glue & Adhesive Tools

Precision Syringes

Micro dots under each stone = clean edges and strong bonds.

Fine-Tip Bottles

For controlled lines with craft glues. Keep tips capped between uses.

Micro-Brushes / Picks

Great for sweeping tiny excess glue or dotting tight spots.

Which glue should I choose?
  • E6000 (Industrial-strength) — best for washable garments, non-porous surfaces (metal, glass, mirror, plastic), and items exposed to water or stress. Shop E6000
  • LS Rhinestone White Gluelow-odour, fabric-friendly choice for indoor pieces that won’t see water exposure (practice wear, display items). Shop White Glue

Apply small dots; seat stone; avoid flooding — excess dulls sparkle.

Hotfix Tools (for Hotfix Rhinestones)

Hotfix Applicator Wand

Interchangeable tips match stone sizes; heats each stone individually for precise placement.

Shop: Hotfix Applicator

Heat Press

Best for rhinestone transfers and bulk motifs — even heat/pressure for fast production.

Household Iron

Budget-friendly with a protective cloth. Less precise but fine for trials and small runs.

Safety: Always test on a fabric offcut. Use correct time/temp/pressure; avoid scorching synthetics.

Sewing Tools (for Sew-On Stones)

Beading Needles

Thin/strong for passing drilled holes cleanly.

Polyester / Nylon Thread

Durable, low-fray. Double-thread for heavy stones.

Thimble & Hoop

Protect fingers and hold fabric taut for consistent stitching.

Quick Guide:
Non-Hotfix stones → use with glue
Hotfix stones → apply with heat
Sew-On stones → attach with thread
Each method has matching tools — choose based on fabric, finish, and durability needs.

Measuring & Marking

Fabric Chalk / Washable Pens

Lightly mark grids, lines, or motifs before gluing/sewing.

Templates & Stencils

Lettering, logos, and repeated motifs stay consistent.

Rulers & Calipers

Even spacing on couture/competition builds.

Organisation & Storage

Stackable Organisers

Sort by size/colour so refills are quick to grab.

LS Refill Boxes

Our packs double as long-term, sturdy organisers.

Silica Gel Packs

Keep moisture at bay in long-term storage.

Workflow Tip: Decant only what you need into a sorting tray. Keep the rest sealed to avoid dust and spills.

Safety & Comfort

Ventilation First

When using strong adhesives (e.g., E6000), work near an open window or fan. If you must work in a closed space for long periods or you’re sensitive to fumes, consider a light mask.

Finger Guards (Optional)

Handy for beginners when sewing dense fabrics or heavy stones.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Lint-Free Cloth

Final wipe to remove fingerprints and haze.

Compressed Air / Soft Brush

Dust off without scratching facets.

Jewellery Cleaners

For accessories only — avoid acetone/vinegar on foiled stones.

Pro Tips from LEOPARD STRASS

  • Work under bright, white light — sparkle shows true under neutral lighting.
  • For big builds, load stones into trays first so glue doesn’t start curing while you hunt sizes.
  • Store glues upright & sealed. Replace clogged tips; don’t cut them too wide.
  • Keep a Sparkle Repair Kit: spare stones, glue, picker, tweezers — for quick fixes before stage or hand-over.

Treat your tools like your stones — together, they turn vision into brilliance.

© LEOPARD STRASS. Now Anyone can Shine like the Champions.