Those ladies who are legitimate accessories junkies knows that it can get a bit pricey when purchasing ready-made accessories; even if you are buying from Forever21 or Charlotte Russe! But accessories also makes or breaks an outfit so you can't really do without them. But don't worry, a solution is here! All you need to have is at least 1% of a crafter in you. I am talking about BUTTONS! Regular old buttons which can be purchase for mere cents to a dollar something! These little cuties can be turned into extremely cute earrings that are one-of-a-kind and super unique!
They are literally 'cute as a button' *-*
Here's what you'll need:
- Buttons - can be found at Lolita's, Little B&J's or Marcanno's in Antigua (or any fabric/craft store elsewhere)
- Earring Posts & Backs - I haven't been able to find these in Antigua, but if you have one of those US postal addresses you can easily order these items from Amazon or Walmart. I purchased mine at http://www.firemountaingems.com/ which has a wide variety of earring findings. I use D & J Forwarders to import and they have pretty decent prices. They clear the stuff thru Customs and bill you on collection.
- Glue - An industrial strength glue would be great and can be purchased at any hardware store. I am using Industrial Strength E-6000 clear multi-purpose adhesive and that works pretty well. DO NOT use a hot glue gun as that does not work. It sticks initially but comes off way too easy!
- Button Shank Pliers - this is a little tool used to cut the shank off those buttons which comes with a shank. It cuts off the shank completely leaving you with a flat surface to glue your back on to. I did not look for this nifty tool in Antigua as I purchased it off Amazon when I was ordering some stuff there. I am certain that you will be able to find it here if you ask around.
And THAT'S IT! Add a little time and minimum elbow grease and its time to start making your very own earrings!
The Process
- If using shank buttons, cut the shanks off each button.
- When done, turn the buttons right side up and position them in the direction you would like them to fit into your ear when done. If using small buttons, this step would not matter as you will be sticking the earring post in the center of the button; but if using larger buttons you will want to stick the earring post closer to the top of the button so that it falls nicely. *Do note that you do not HAVE to cover the area where you cut the shank off of. No one will be focusing on the back of your earring anyways.
- Apply the glue to the flat surface of the earring post and stick it to the back of the earring either in the center, for small buttons, or at the position you desire for bigger buttons. *Bigger earring post are always better as you'll be able to use more glue to hold the earring together. More more = stronger bond.
- Allow glue to dry for 24 - 48 hours before wearing.
Voila! You now have beautiful and unique hand-made earrings which are sure to jazz up any outfit!
Enjoy!
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These were custom made for a couple of my customers. Visit my FB page here to see the rest of my earrings :- https://www.facebook.com/JazzyFunkyFresh Don't forget to hit the LIKE button!
If you like this post, leave me a comment. If you create your own earrings, send me a pic!
