Custom rhinestone transfers let you turn a logo, team name or artwork into a ready-to-press design that goes on in seconds. Here is exactly how the process works when you order from a factory-direct supplier like StrassHub.
Step 1: Prepare your artwork
- Vector files are best (AI, EPS, PDF, SVG) because they scale without losing sharpness.
- High-resolution PNG or JPG also works - the larger, the better (at least 1000 px on the longest side).
- Keep the design to 2-4 colors for the cleanest stone layout and lower cost.
- Avoid very thin strokes and tiny text - each stone is a physical dot, so details below 2-3 stones wide will not hold.
Step 2: Get a quote and proof
Send your artwork with the finished size (width and height) and the garment type. You will receive a quote plus a digital proof that shows how the design will look as a stone layout. Confirm the proof before production - it is much cheaper to change the file than to remake a transfer.
Step 3: Production and shipping
Your design is converted into a stone map, set on hot-fix transfer film, and quality-checked before packing. Turnaround depends on the stone count and current production queue, so ask for a delivery date before you place the order. Team orders with multiple names can usually be batched together to save cost.
Step 4: Application
- Pre-press the garment for 3-5 seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles.
- Place the transfer stone-side down on the fabric.
- Press at roughly 150-180 °C (300-350 °F) for 15-25 seconds with firm, even pressure.
- Cool for a few seconds, then peel the film. Let the stones set before washing.
Always test on a scrap piece of the same fabric first, because every fabric and press behaves a little differently.
Who uses custom transfers?
- Dance teams - team names and logos on leotards and warm-ups
- Cheer squads - bows, skirts and uniforms with matching designs
- Etsy sellers - small-batch personalized apparel without buying a stone-setting machine
- Uniform shops - employee names and brand marks
Ready to start? Send your artwork through our custom transfers page, or browse ready-made options in the rhinestone transfers collection.