How to Make Ear Plugs out of Polymer Clay

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Things You'll Need

  • Polymer clay

  • Ear plugs

  • Small round cookie cutter

  • Cookie sheet

  • Oven

  • Steel wool

  • Clean washcloth

  • Paintbrush

  • Polymer clay glaze

Polymer clay is a material made of polymer compound. It is easy to work with for crafting projects due to its malleability and ability to be fired in a home oven at low temperatures. Ear plugs, also called ear gauges, are jewelry used to stretch the skin around a piercing to a larger size. You can create your own ear plugs using polymer clay. Because the sizing of plugs is so specific, it is best to use a pair of already made plugs that you already own as a sizing guide for the clay creation.

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Step 1

Pull of a 2-inch segment of polymer clay and form it into a ball. Place a hand on the top and bottom of the ball. Press down while using your fingers to rotate the clay. Note that the ball should work down into a somewhat flattened circle.

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Step 2

Compare the size of the clay to your model plugs. Add or remove clay to adjust the size. Rub the surface of the clay to remove any lumps or bumps. Use a small round cookie cutter to cut out the center of the clay circle. Use your fingers to smooth the inner edges.

Step 3

Repeat Steps 1 and 2 to create the second plug. Place both plugs on a cookie sheet. Put the sheet into the oven and cook according to the package directions on the polymer clay. Remove finished clay from the oven and allow to cool overnight.

Step 4

Sand the surface of the gauges lightly with a piece of steel wool. Wipe off any debris with a lightly dampened cloth. Use a paintbrush to apply a polymer clay glaze. Allow to dry overnight before wearing.

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