How to Make a Rhinestone Tumbler: Complete Step-by-Step Tutorial

Create a Stunning Rhinestone Tumbler: Complete Video Tutorial

Ready to create a dazzling rhinestone tumbler that sparkles from every angle? This comprehensive step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process of creating a professional-quality rhinestone tumbler using the honeycomb placement pattern. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your technique, this tutorial covers everything from materials and preparation to application and finishing touches.

What You'll Need: Complete Materials List

Essential Supplies

• Stainless steel tumbler - 20oz or 30oz straight-sided tumbler works best
• Premium flatback rhinestones - SS16 or SS20 size rhinestones recommended for tumblers
• SuperTite Fusion Tack or Multi-Grab 360 adhesive or specialized rhinestone glue - Professional-grade adhesive for permanent bonding
• Acrylic paint - Color-matched to your rhinestones for seamless coverage
• Paintbrush or foam applicator - For applying base coat
• Rhinestone pick up tool - For precise stone placement
• Tweezers - For adjusting stone positions
• Rubbing alcohol and sandpaper- For surface preparation
• Lint-free cloth - For cleaning the tumbler

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Tumbler Surface

Proper surface preparation is critical for long-lasting adhesion. Use a small piece of sandpaper to rough the surface of our tumbler. This provides a surface for the glue and rhinestones to adhere to. After you scuff the surface, clean your stainless steel tumbler thoroughly with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth to remove any oils, fingerprints, or residue. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding. A clean surface ensures your rhinestones will bond securely and remain in place through regular use and washing.

Pro tip: Avoid touching the cleaned surface with bare hands. Oils from your skin can compromise adhesion.

Step 2: Paint Your Base Coat

Apply spray or acrylic paint to your tumbler in a color that matches your rhinestones. This step creates the illusion of complete coverage by making the spaces between rhinestones visually disappear. For example, if you're using clear or crystal rhinestones, paint the tumbler white or silver. For colored rhinestones, match the paint color as closely as possible. Check out our blog Hand Setting Rhinestones: Linear, Honeycomb and Scatter Patterns on Painted and Unpainted Background. 

Apply 2-3 thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. A smooth, even base coat provides the perfect foundation for rhinestone placement.

Pro tip: Use painter's tape to mask off areas you don't want to rhinestone, creating clean, professional edges.

Step 3: Plan Your Design and Pattern

Before applying any glue, plan your rhinestone placement pattern. This video shows the honeycomb pattern. The honeycomb pattern is the most popular and recommended for tumblers because it maximizes coverage and creates a seamless, professional appearance. In this pattern, each row of rhinestones is offset so stones nestle into the gaps of the previous row.

You can lightly mark guidelines with a pencil or use the natural lines of your tumbler as reference points. Start at the top edge and work your way across in horizontal rows.

Step 4: Apply Adhesive

Work in small sections to prevent the adhesive from drying before you place your rhinestones. Apply a thin, even layer of your preferred adhesive to a small area (about 2-3 inches wide). You can apply glue directly to the tumbler.

Important: Less is more with adhesive. Too much glue will ooze between stones and create a messy appearance. A thin layer provides secure bonding without excess.

Step 5: Place Rhinestones Using Honeycomb Pattern

Using your rhinestone picker, pick up individual rhinestones and place them on the adhesive-covered surface. Follow the honeycomb pattern by offsetting each row:

• Row 1: Place rhinestones in a straight line along your starting edge. Turn your tumbler over and set it on a flat surface. Using a straight edge, such as a credit card, press the rhinestones down to create a straight line. This is your foundation row, ensuring your first line is straight is the most crucial step in securing a fantastic finish.
• Row 2: Offset the stones so each one sits in the gap between two stones from Row 1. Once your second row is complete, use your straight edge or credit card to push row 2 closer to row 1. 
• Row 3: Repeat the prior steps, making sure to place stones as close together as possible without overlapping. The honeycomb pattern naturally brings stones closer together for maximum coverage and sparkle. 

Pro tip: Work quickly but carefully—most adhesives allow 1-2 minutes of working time.

Step 6: Work in Sections

Continue applying adhesive and placing rhinestones in small sections, working your way around the tumbler. Maintain consistent spacing and pattern alignment throughout. Take breaks as needed—rhinestone application requires patience and precision.

For a full-coverage tumbler, you'll typically need 2,000-4,000 rhinestones, depending on tumbler size and rhinestone size. SS16 rhinestones provide excellent coverage with manageable application time.

Step 7: Allow Proper Curing Time

Once all rhinestones are in place, allow the adhesive to cure completely per the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid handling or using the tumbler during this time to ensure maximum bond strength.

Place the tumbler in a safe location where it won't be disturbed. Avoid curing in areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures.

Tips for Professional Results

• Choose the right rhinestone size: SS16 (4.0mm) or SS20 (5.00mm) are ideal for most tumblers—large enough for impact, small enough for detailed coverage
• Invest in quality rhinestones: Premium flatback rhinestones like the Be Createful house or LUXE line offer superior clarity and sparkle
• Work in good lighting: Bright, even lighting helps you see gaps and maintain consistent spacing
• Take your time: Rushing leads to uneven spacing and misaligned patterns
• Practice the honeycomb pattern: Create a test section on paper or cardboard before working on your tumbler
• Keep tools clean: Wipe your rhinestone picker frequently to maintain good grip
• Store rhinestones organized: Use compartmented containers to keep colors and sizes separated

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping surface preparation: Clean surfaces are essential for lasting adhesion
• Using too much adhesive: Excess glue creates messy gaps and dulls sparkle
• Inconsistent spacing: Maintain even spacing  between stones for a professional appearance
• Working too quickly: Allow adequate time for precise placement
• Not matching paint color: Visible base color between stones can take away from the seamless effect
• Handling before cure: Moving the tumbler before the adhesive fully cures can shift stones

Care Instructions for Rhinestone Tumblers

To keep your rhinestone tumbler sparkling for years:

• Hand wash only: Avoid dishwashers, which can loosen adhesive
• Use mild soap and warm water: Harsh chemicals can damage rhinestones and adhesive
• Pat dry gently: Avoid scrubbing the rhinestone surface
• Store carefully: Keep away from extreme temperatures
• Avoid prolonged soaking: Brief washing is fine, but don't leave submerged

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make a rhinestone tumbler?

A full-coverage 20-oz rhinestone tumbler typically takes 4-8 hours of active work time, depending on your experience level and the complexity of your design. Factor in additional time for paint drying and adhesive curing (24-72 hours).

What's the best adhesive for rhinestone tumblers?

Supertite Fusion Tack or Multi-Grab 360 are the most popular choices for rhinestone tumblers due to their strong bond, flexibility when cured, and waterproof properties. Other options include Gem-Tac, Beacon 527, and specialized rhinestone adhesives. Always choose adhesives rated for metal and glass surfaces.

Can I use hotfix rhinestones on tumblers?

You can but we do not suggest using hotfix rhinestone for projects other then garments. Hotfix rhinestones are designed for fabric applications. On projects such as tumblers, the rhinestone may fall off if the glue disk separates from it. Always use flatback rhinestones with appropriate adhesive for tumbler projects.

How many rhinestones are required for a tumbler?

For a 20oz straight-sided tumbler with full coverage using SS16 rhinestones, you'll need approximately 3721 stones. Each row contains about 61 rhinestones, and there are 61 rows from top to bottom, for a total of 3721. Please note that this calculation may vary across Tumbler brands.

For a 20oz straight-sided tumbler with full coverage using S20 rhinestones, you will need approximately 2,401 rhinestones. Each row contains about 49 rhinestones, and there are 49 rows from top to bottom, for a total of 2401. Please note that this calculation may vary across Tumbler brands.

Why should I use the honeycomb pattern instead of linear?

The honeycomb pattern allows rhinestones to be placed closer together, creating better coverage. It also produces a more seamless, professional appearance compared to the grid-like look of linear placement.

Do I have to paint the tumbler first?

While not absolutely required, painting your tumbler to match your rhinestone color dramatically improves the final appearance by making gaps between stones virtually invisible. This step is highly recommended for professional-looking results.

Ready to Create Your Rhinestone Masterpiece?

Creating a rhinestone tumbler is a rewarding project that combines creativity, patience, and precision. By following this step-by-step guide and using the honeycomb placement pattern, you'll achieve professional results that sparkle beautifully and last for years. The key to success is proper preparation, quality materials, and taking your time to place each stone carefully.

Watch the video tutorial above as many times as needed, and don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect—rhinestone application is a skill that improves with practice. Soon you'll be creating stunning custom tumblers for yourself, as gifts, or even to sell.

Ready to get started? Shop our complete selection of premium flatback rhinestones, professional adhesives, and tumbler supplies. Everything you need to create beautiful rhinestone tumblers is available in one place.