It depends on your project and stone size, but these options are popular:

• Wax pencil: Simple and affordable; the tacky wax lifts small to medium flatback gems. You’ll sharpen as it wears down.
• Refillable wax pen: Cleaner and longer-lasting; you can replace or refill the wax tip when it dulls.
• Adhesive/silicone tip pen: Gentle grip that’s great for larger rhinestones without leaving residue.
• Dual-ended picker + dotting tool: One end picks up; the other helps place or press stones.
• Tweezers: Precise for tiny pieces, though they can be slower.

Consider comfort for longer sessions (like diamond painting) and match the tip to your rhinestone size. You can shop a range of styles online with pickup or delivery options.

You’ve got a few quick stand-ins:

• Tweezers: Fine-point tweezers offer control for tiny rhinestones.
• Tape loop: Wrap a small loop of low-tack tape around a pencil tip (sticky side out) to lift and place gems.
• Craft putty on a toothpick: A tiny dab of removable adhesive putty can create a temporary tacky tip.
• Wax crayon: Lightly touch a clean crayon tip to pick up a rhinestone; test first to avoid color transfer.

Use minimal tack so stones release easily onto your glue or gel. Test on a scrap surface and remove any residue with a soft cloth. Follow product labels and keep adhesives away from eyes and skin.

Most rhinestone pickers use a gently tacky tip to lift and place stones.

• Wax-based tips: The wax creates light grip on the flat side of a rhinestone without strong adhesion.
• Adhesive/silicone tips: Slight tack grabs the gem’s face so you can position it precisely.

To use: pick up the rhinestone face-up, set it onto your glue or gel, then roll or tilt the tip away to release. Dual-ended tools often include a dotting end to nudge or press the stone into place. Wipe the tip periodically and replace or refill wax when it loses tack. Results can vary by stone size and adhesive.

A smooth setup helps speed and accuracy:

1. Sort first: Pour rhinestones into a shallow tray and shake gently so they sit face-up.
2. Use a tacky tip: A wax pen or silicone-tip picker lifts quickly and releases cleanly.
3. Work in small sections: Apply only a bit of glue/gel at a time so it doesn’t dry out.
4. Keep tools clean: Wipe the picker tip as needed to maintain tack.
5. Good lighting and stability: Rest your hands on the table to steady placements.

Grouping stones by size and keeping a dual-ended picker handy for quick press-and-place can help streamline repeat designs. Adjust your pace based on adhesive set time and stone size.

Care differs by tool type:

• Wax pencils: Sharpen to reveal fresh wax. Wipe the point with a lint-free cloth to remove debris.
• Refillable wax pens: Swap in a new wax core or tip according to the tool’s design; avoid overfilling.
• Silicone/adhesive tips: Clean gently with mild soap and water; dry completely before use. Skip harsh solvents.

For all tools, cap the tip, store away from heat and dust, and avoid pressing too hard to extend life. If tack fades, refresh by exposing a clean surface or replacing the tip. Maintenance needs can vary by how often you craft and the types of rhinestones you use.