How to Make a Studded Earring
Studded earrings are popular among many people because they accentuate most face shapes and are simple yet elegant. Studded earrings come in a range of sizes, but because they must fit on the earlobe, they are still typically small. You can inexpensively create your own studded earrings at home with the right supplies and a bit of time and patience. Also, earring posts and backings generally come in bulk so you can create many different pairs. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Earring posts
- Earring backings
- Small buttons of various colors
- Small jewels
- Strong glue
Instructions
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Purchase earring posts, earring backings and glue. Earring posts and backings can be found online or at local crafts stores. They come in a variety of sizes and types of material. Those with more sensitive ears may want to consider purchasing more expensive earring posts and backings, such as those made from gold or silver. Earring posts also come in different shapes. Some are flat, which is appropriate for attaching buttons or other flat jewels, while others have a rounded cup to them, in which you can place a round jewel or small glass ball.
The type of glue that you use will depend on the type of materials that you work with. While super-type glue has a strong bond, it breaks easily. Other glues are better for acting as a more rubbery substance, which does not crack easily and helps to make sure that earrings do not break when dropped. One-part epoxy adhesives or other strong craft adhesives are appropriate for jewels, gemstones and wood. Hot glue is another valid option, but it is not as permanent as a one-part epoxy adhesive, and it turns yellow over time.
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Coordinate buttons and jewels for however many pairs of earrings you would like to make. Be creative and try mixing things up. Try stacking differently colored buttons on top of each other. Another option is to try using a cluster of various jewels on one earring post by gluing them all together first in a ball or disc shape that is slightly larger than the earring post and then attaching them to the post. This can be a very elegant option and allows you to mix different colored beads or jewels together for one earring.
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Pinch the earring post in your nondominant hand. Place a dab of glue on the earring post. Place a dab of glue on the back of the item that you are placing on the earring post as well.
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Wait approximately 15 seconds. This will allow the glue to become slightly tacky before you press the earring post and button or jewel together.
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Press the earring post and decorative item together and hold it in place for at least 30 seconds. Put it aside and allow it to continue to dry until the glue is completely hardened. Once the glue is dry, the earrings are ready to be worn.
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References
Resources
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