How to Make Stud Earrings

Make stud earrings from small stones.

A stud earring sits on the front of the ear lobe, and is secured to the ear by a post and earring backing. It is very easy to make your own stud earrings. By making your own you will save money and be sure the earrings are one of a kind, as they can be as flashy or as elegant as you wish. Stud earrings also make great gifts. Look for beads or stones in a local craft store, and select stones that you think would make a good pair. Make sure the beads or stones have a flat surface big enough for you to glue onto an earring post. Be careful not to choose a post that is that is too big, as it will show around the edges of the stone.

Things You'll Need

• 2 posts
• 2 backings
• 2 flat or round stones or beads
• Strong glue
• Toothpicks
• Alcohol
• Cotton swabs
• File

Instructions

1. Rough up the back of the bead or stone with a file or sandpaper so that the glue will adhere well. The face of the post -- the part the stone will be glued to -- should also be roughed up.

2. Using a cotton swab, clean the roughened surfaces with alcohol so the glue will adhere better.

3. Select glue that will bind metal and stone, preferably one that is waterproof. Read and follow the instructions on the glue you have selected. Some glues should be put on both surfaces, and some only on one. Apply the glue to one or both surfaces with the end of a toothpick. Don't use too much glue. Squeeze the stone or bead onto the post. If a little glue comes out, wipe it away with a cloth or tissue.

4. Let the glue dry in accordance with the instructions on the glue tube.

Tips & Warnings

• A round bead with no flat surfaces can be glued into an earring post which has a small cup at the end.

• There are many kinds of earring backs you can use. The round plastic disc ones are sometimes preferred if the earring needs stabilization. The cone-shaped posts are easy to put on because they can be easily grasped. If you are concerned about your earrings falling out, there are backings with spring-loaded clips that will secure your earrings until you remove them.

• Posts and earring backings can be purchased at craft stores.

• If you have very sensitive ears, you may want to use stainless steel or real gold or silver posts and backings.

• If there is a little extra hardened glue on your earrings or posts, scrape it off with your fingernail or a razor blade. Be careful with the razor blade, and be sure not to scratch the stone.

• Be sure to carefully follow the instructions on the glue tube, especially if extra ventilation is required. All glues do not work in the same way and can require various conditions for effectiveness and safety.

• Wear latex or vinyl gloves when applying the glue. Many glues are difficult to remove from skin.

References

• Professional Jeweler Archive; Stud Earrings; January 2002
• Artists Helping Children: How to Make Pretty Earrings or Ear Studs Hearts for Valentine's Day Craft
• The Pearl Market: Pearl Stud Earrings