Make Easy Earrings From Upcycled Fabric
Not only are these earrings easy to make and cute, they are upcycled from some super meaningful fabric. I created them from one of my beloved grandpa’s many handkerchiefs, soon after his passing. Whipping the cloth out of his pocket, he gently wiped away the tears from his loved ones eyes, and eliminated runny noses with joy. A single hanky is big enough to fashion several pairs, so the women in our family all have a wearable reminder of the best man to ever live (yes, I am biased, but also, he was the best)! Today I am going to show you how to make your own version in just a few simple steps. They would be cute fashioned from old jeans, your favorite shirt, your grandpa’s hanky, or just about any fabric you want. Let’s do this!!
- White handkerchief or fabric of your choice
- Organza or Tulle
- Metal Eyelets
- Crop-a-Dile
- Metal chain small enough to fit through eyelet
- Metal washer from hardware store that eyelet will fit in and not slide through when set
- Ear Wire from Vintaj
- Tonic Scissors
- Jewelry pliers (2 pairs)
-side note: I gave my grandpa the book Between Me and You GRANDPA, he filled it out completely, and it is a blessing beyond words. My most valued possession, for sure.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Spray fabric if desired. I went with a fall color palate using the spray inks shown. Let air dry for a couple of hours, then set by drying in machine on high heat for 5 minutes.
Make a square template from card stock about 1.5 inches wide and long (yeah, a square).
Cut several squares from your fabric of choice using the template as a guide. I cut some from tulle in addition to the hanky.
Hole punch center of template with Crop-a-Dile
Hole punch center of fabric using template as a guide. You can hole punch several squares at the same time, depending on the thickness of your fabric.
Make a sandwich from fabric squares with washer in the middle. I used 3-4 squares on each side of the washer. The purpose of the washer is stability and weight.
Use Crop-a-Dile to set eyelet.
Insert chain about 3 inches long through eyelet.
Make a loop from the chain, using ear wire to join both the chain loops on each end. You are finished!
I love having something so reminiscient of my grandfather to wear, not that I need it to remember him. He is everywhere and I am blessed! I love you, Pa. And now the flood gates are open.
Here is to grandfathers everywhere! May you cherish every moment with yours.
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So cute and hate wearing heavy earrings so these are perfect!
How beautiful! When my dad passed my sister and I had special pieces made from his rings. It is nice to have a piece of him with me. I’m sure you reach up and touch your earrings and smile every time.