I can't tell you how many times I've cleaned out my drawers or my jewelry box and have found random buttons. I actually started putting them in a mason jar to keep them together simply because, well, you never know when you may need an extra button.
But recently, I was sifting through my button collection and found a few that were matching and since I didn't need them for clothing, I decided to get crafty with them and make earrings! I love, love, love this DIY project! So cute and creative and it doesn't cost much! Everyone will want a pair! And with the holidays around the corner, they make the perfect gift!
This is what you'll need:
- Buttons
- Flat back earring posts
- Jewelry glue (I used Aleene's)
- Nail polish - colored and clear coat (optional)
Step One:
Find two matching buttons, preferably matching by size, but they don't need to match by color (we'll get to that in a second). If you have buttons that match in color - move on to step two. If the buttons you have chosen do not match in color or if you don't particularly like the color and want to jazz things up a bit, then grab some nail polish. Paint one side of the button with 2 thick layers of nail polish. Don't forget to go around the edge and get inside the button holes. Use a toothpick to clear out the button holes if you get too much nail polish in there. Allow ample time for the polish to dry and then add a clear coat to it. If you get any light finger print marks on it, don't worry - the clear coat will smooth that out. Let it sit until its completely dry and the nail polish is hard.
Step Two:
Lay the front/painted side of the button down so that the back side (unpainted side) is facing upward. If you got any nail polish on the back, take a nail file or some sand paper and lightly buff it off. With the back side facing upward, take the jewelry glue and add a small dot of glue to the back of the button and gently place the flat back earring post to the button. I like the take the earring backs off the posts so I don't accidentally get glue on them and glue them to the actual post. I share this wisdom because I speak from experience - haha!
Step Three:
Make sure you allow the appropriate amount of time for the glue to dry completely before testing out the earrings on yourself. Once you are finished creating your button earrings, you can package them up as gifts for your friends, family and definitely for yourself!
Enjoy!
Laura