DIY Chic: Button Stud Earrings Tutorial
Personal style on a college budget can be a challenge. Especially when the latest trends change with the seasons… literally. But with a little DIY magic, you can perk up your wardrobe without breaking the bank. That’s just what I aim to prove here – DIY Chic is dedicated to bringing you budget-friendly and super easy do-it-yourself projects.
For our first project, these adorable button stud earrings are about as simple as you can get. I love how they add a youthful and feminine touch to any look and it’s so easy to make them entirely your own. (For more on making jewelry, see our past tutorials on DIY beaded earrings and DIY decoupage earrings.)
Even better, this tutorial is a great way to re-purpose an old item. You know that old button-down shirt or cardigan in your closet – the one you never wear, the one that’s too big or has that unrepairable rip? Before you throw it out, salvage the buttons and take a look at this far-too-easy idea for a new pair of earrings!
What you’ll need:
- Buttons
- Earring posts and backs (available at craft stores)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
- Felt (optional)
The step-by-step process:
1. Before you get started, be sure to plug in your hot glue gun and let it heat up. Also be sure to read through the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
2. Pick out your pair of buttons. Experiment with sizes and colors, or get creative with novelty or vintage buttons. Then, grab your earring posts and backs. I found the posts and backs at a craft store for less than $2 for a small bag.
3. The next step is entirely optional, but does make it easier to fasten the buttons to the earring posts. Cut two small squares of felt, in a color that either matches or contrasts with your buttons. Add a small dab of glue and press the button onto the felt until dry. Then, trim away the extra felt.
4. Finally, add another dab of glue and secure the earring post to the back of the button. Of course, you’ll want to let the earrings dry and cool completely.
And there you go! A simple, quick, and inexpensive way to add a new pair of adorable earrings to your jewelry collection. I think this project would also make a great gift for a best friend, sister, or roommate.
What do you think?
What do you think of these simple DIY earrings? Would you consider making your own jewelry, or do you prefer to stick to store-bought accessories? Do you have an idea or suggestion for a future DIY project you’d like to see here on College Fashion? Let us know what you think in a comment!
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Posted on on January 18, 2012 / Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: Accessories, Budget Fashion, DIY, Earrings, Fashion Inspiration, How To
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Alana
So cute! I will definitely have to try this!
C
I love this! It’s so cute, I will definitely have to try this! :) Great post!
Amanda
These are so adorable! I love them and will definitely give it a try. The only thing is I feel like a pair of earrings from forever 21 are cheaper than the stuff required to make a pair of these unless your making them in bulk or something. Love them regardless.
Beth
Super cute!
Kenzie
I have been making button earrings along with other button jewelry (bracelets, necklaces, rings, hair barrettes) for years. Though I have never tried to put fabric beind the buttons but I like to use a needle-nose jewelry pliers and hold the earring post with that. Then I put a large-ish dollop of the hot glue on it before pressing the button on. The glue goes through the holes of the button giving it this cool bubble effect and it makes the earring look a lot cleaner.
Sierra
Love this:)
Isa
So adorable! I’m definitely going to try this out :D I really love CF’s DIY posts.
CR
This is a really cute idea!
Stari
Adorable and so easy!
Amanda
Those earrings are the cutest things ever! I so wish I could wear them. Unfortunately, I’m allergic to all metals except gold. Maybe I will make these for friends and family and give as gifts. :)
Paula*
Too bad I can’t wear earrings! I’m insanely allergic to metal.
Brittany
Super cute! What a great idea! I actually have everything needed to make these somewhere aroun the house, Except the earring itself. These would also make such a cute, creative and inexpensive gift idea. Thanks!
Kim
Adorable!
sade
???? this..I’m going in the craft store tomorrow.. #super excited ^-^
Jenny in Jacquard
Those are really adorable and I imagine they’d be even cuter in bright colors.
Samantha
So cute! I kind of want to make some with googly eyes!