Wholesale Rhinestones | Hotfix & Flatback Stones Guide
What Are Rhinestones?
Rhinestones are imitation gemstones made from glass, crystal, or acrylic, widely used in clothing, shoes, accessories, and DIY crafts. They sparkle like diamonds but are far more affordable, making them one of the most popular decorative materials in the global fashion industry.
👉 The two most common types are Hotfix Rhinestones (with heat-activated glue) and Flatback Rhinestones (smooth back, attached with adhesive).
Hotfix vs Flatback Rhinestones – What’s the Difference?
Here’s a simple comparison of hotfix rhinestones vs flatback rhinestones:
| Feature | Hotfix Rhinestones | Flatback Rhinestones |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Applied with heat press or iron | Glued with special adhesive |
| Best for | Fabrics, t-shirts, costumes | Shoes, handbags, jewelry |
| Durability | Strong & long-lasting bond | Flexible use across surfaces |
| MOQ in Wholesale | 50,000 pcs or more | 30,000 pcs or more |
Applications of Wholesale Rhinestones
Wholesale buyers use rhinestones across multiple industries:
- Clothing & Costumes – dancewear, stage costumes, fashion t-shirts.
- Bridal Wear – wedding gowns, veils, and accessories.
- Shoes & Bags – luxury heels, sneakers, clutches, handbags.
- DIY Jewelry & Crafts – phone cases, hair clips, handmade accessories.
👉 Many suppliers offer rhinestone trims and rhinestone appliques that save production time for bulk buyers.
How to Choose the Right Rhinestones in Bulk
When sourcing wholesale rhinestones, keep these factors in mind:
- Material – Glass rhinestones sparkle better; acrylic rhinestones are lightweight and cheaper.
- Size – Wholesale rhinestones usually range from SS6 to SS40. Small sizes (SS6–SS12) suit garments; larger ones (SS20+) suit shoes and accessories.
- Shape – Round, square, teardrop, navette, or custom fancy cuts.
- Color & Coating – AB coating, metallic colors, rainbow effect.
- Price vs Quality – Glass hotfix rhinestones are higher quality, while acrylic flatback stones are budget-friendly.
Buying Wholesale Rhinestones – Key Factors
Bulk buyers need to evaluate more than just sparkle:
- MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): Most factories require 30,000–50,000 pcs per color.
- Packaging: 10 gross (1440 pcs) per bag is the standard; customized packaging available.
- Lead Time: Bulk production usually takes 15–30 days.
- Customization: Some suppliers offer OEM packaging with your brand logo.
- Shipping: Air freight is fast but costly; sea freight is economical for large orders.
👉 For better margins, work directly with a wholesale rhinestones supplier instead of retail middlemen.
Where to Buy Wholesale Rhinestones?
Here are the most common sourcing options:
- Chinese Manufacturers (Yiwu, Guangzhou) – world’s largest rhinestone production hubs.
- Indian & Korean Suppliers – specialized in crystal rhinestones and fancy cuts.
- B2B Online Platforms – such as Alibaba, Made-in-China, or dedicated accessory wholesalers.
💡 Tip: Always ask for samples before confirming bulk orders to check quality and consistency.
FAQ About Wholesale Rhinestones
Q1: What is the cheapest type of rhinestone for bulk orders?
👉 Acrylic rhinestones are the most affordable, ideal for budget-friendly projects.
Q2: Can hotfix rhinestones be applied without heat?
👉 No. Hotfix rhinestones require heat activation; for glue application use flatback rhinestones.
Q3: What’s the MOQ for wholesale rhinestones from China?
👉 Generally 30,000–50,000 pcs per order, depending on material and size.
Q4: Are acrylic rhinestones suitable for bridal gowns?
👉 Not recommended. Bridal wear usually requires glass or crystal rhinestones for brilliance and durability.
Conclusion – Choosing the Best Wholesale Rhinestones
Whether you need hotfix rhinestones for garments or flatback rhinestones for accessories, choosing the right type depends on your product line, budget, and customer demand. For the best wholesale prices, partner with a reliable rhinestones supplier that offers both quality assurance and flexible customization.