How to Make Earrings That Won't Hurt

Earrings can be both stylish and comfortable.

Button-style earrings, with most of the weight close to your ear, are less likely to cause discomfort than dangle-style earrings. If you must have dangles, pick the shortest and most lightweight dangle possible. The heavier the dangle and the further the dangle hangs down away from the earlobe, the more likely the earring will be uncomfortable to wear, because it will literally pull on your earlobe. The old adage that "you have to suffer to be beautiful" can be put to rest with button-style earrings.

Things You'll Need

• Cabochon beads (optional)
• Buttons (optional)
• Jewelry adhesive
• Post findings (optional)
• Magnets (optional)

Instructions

1. Pick a button to use for making your earring. Any cabochon bead that is larger in diameter than the earring finding will do. Maybe you would like a classic cameo. You can use a plain button, with or without button holes. Or glue one button on top of another button, with jewelry adhesive, using your choice of colors.

2. Choose an earring finding to go through your earlobe if you have pierced earrings. A post finding will be the best choice, as a fishhook-style finding would necessitate a dangle, which would pull on your earlobe. Choose a post earring finding in a material that will not irritate your pierced ears. Gold, sterling silver or hypoallergenic posts will work well. Place a drop of jewelry adhesive on the back of the button and attach the metal finding. Allow the adhesive to dry.

3. Use an earring back finding with a clear disc, as opposed to a plain earring back. The disc will cover more area on the back of your earlobe, which will help balance the weight on the front of the ear. This type of earring back will be less likely to pull into your earlobe and cause discomfort.

4. Find an alternative to the post findings if your ears are not pierced. Tim Gunn of Marie Claire advises, "For more subtle, comfortable studs, consider magnetic backs." Any set of small and powerful magnets will do. Gold-plated magnetic earring findings are available for those with sensitive skin. Hold each of your new button earrings in place by holding the magnet behind your earlobe. The magnetic force will grab hold and secure the earring on your ear. If it does not work on the first try, just turn the magnet over.

5. Glue a second set of magnets onto the back of your earrings if the back of your buttons is not metal. Attach each magnet to one of the buttons with jewelry adhesive, if needed. Allow the adhesive to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a special bead you would like to show off, put a fine jewelry wire or a heavy thread through the bead and then thread each end through either hole of the button. Secure on the back with jewelry adhesive under your jewelry finding.

References

• "Marie Claire" magazine: How to Wear Vintage Right; Tim Gunn; November 2010

Resources

• The Country Dutchess