If you have vintage or other clip-on earrings, you can easily turn them into post style earrings for pierced ears. Here are step-by step instructions for this quick and easy project.
When we were with my husband’s family over Thanksgiving, my husband’s step-mom pulled out boxes and boxes of vintage jewelry that had belonged to my grandmother-in-law. All the ladies had a good time sitting at the table and going through them to pick out items we might like. At first I didn’t look twice at any of the earrings. My husband’s grandmother never had pierced ears, so they were all clip-on style. Our 12 year old niece picked out a pair of red, white and blue rhinestone lever backs that she liked, but she didn’t think she’d wear them as clips. I told her I’d give it a shot at making them into post style earrings. I had picked out a necklace that had a matching set of earrings, so I decided to take those and try to transition them as well. BTW If you’re looking for more creative projects and hobby ideas, you can explore our blog page for Hobbies For Women, where you’ll find a wide array of inspiration and exciting activities to explore.
I finally got around to working on them a few weeks ago since our niece’s birthday is coming up. I started on the ones I picked out for myself so that I could use that as the practice round. Supplies can be found at most craft stores. Links below go to amazon.com affiliate links.
Supplies Needed:
- Earring posts
- Earring backs
- Epoxy you can use on metal
- Toothpicks
- Wire cutters and/or pliers (depending on type of clips)
Here’s what the earrings looked like as clip-ons with small lever backs.
In order to remove the lever back, I used a pair of wire cutters to cut off the clip as close to the base as possible.
Next I used a toothpick (not shown) to put a small amount of epoxy onto the new post.
Then I attached the post to the back of the earring, pressing firmly.
After waiting the directed drying time for the epoxy, I added the earring backs and was able to wear my new earrings!
I followed the same process for the other set of earrings for our niece, except for the removal of the backs. This time I use pliers to gently pry off the clips. They came off fairly easily and cleanly. If they had not come off cleanly, I would have used a little sandpaper or a file to make the metal more smooth. After the epoxy dries, if you have excess, you may need to peel it off.
I’ve worn my pair a few times with no issues. They seem secure and durable. I may have to take a look another look at all those vintage earrings. Aside from earrings, I’m also thinking I could make some cute hair clips and other items. Oh the possibilities!
- Tags:
- diy jewelry
- earrings
- jewelry
- upcycle
