How to Use Silver Clawback Rhinestones
Clawbacks are the secret weapon of designers, dancers, drag artists, and pageant queens — pro-grade sparkle that stays put through every spin, dip, and quick change. Here’s exactly how to use them, two ways.
First, the Basics
What Is a Clawback?
A clawback is a faceted glass stone set in a silver-backed metal cup with little prongs — and crucially, holes you can stitch through. That means clawbacks can be permanently sewn on (the gold standard for costumes that move) or quickly glued on for props and one-night looks. Our Mixed Shapes Packs give you 200+ pieces in assorted shapes so you can build organic, high-end clusters.
What You’ll Need
Method 1 · Sew-On (Best for Costumes)
1
Map your design. Lay the garment flat and arrange your stones first. Mix shapes and sizes for an organic, couture cluster, then mark spots with chalk.
2
Thread up. Use a doubled length of strong nylon/beading thread and knot the end. Come up from the back of the fabric.
3
Stitch the prongs. Pass the needle through each hole in the metal setting, making 2–3 passes per stone so it sits flush and secure.
4
Knot & travel. Tie off behind each stone (or carry the thread to the next if they’re close). A dab of clear glue on the back knot adds insurance.
5
Build your cluster. Work outward from your focal point, filling gaps with smaller shapes for that high-density, stage-ready shine.
Method 2 · Glue-On (Fast for Props & Hard Surfaces)
Clean the surface with rubbing alcohol, place a small dot of E6000 inside the claw setting, press the stone down, and let it cure fully (often 24 hours). Great for shoes, headpieces, and acrylic props — just note glue-on is less durable than stitching for heavy-movement wear.
💡 Pro Tips
Sew for anything that moves (dance, drag, skating, pageant). Back dense areas with a strip of felt or lining so prongs don’t scratch. And always stitch a few extra stones onto a scrap — quick-change repairs happen.
✨ Pick Your Palette
In-Stock Clawback Colors
$14.99
$12.74
$12.74
$12.74
Want inspiration for where to put them? Our Silver Clawbacks feature for designers, drag artists & creators is full of ideas.
Show Us Your Make ✨
Stoned a costume, a jacket, or a headpiece? Tag @StonedCrazy — we feature our favorite clawback creations right here in the Project Gallery.
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