Not just for closing clothes or securing paper, buttons have been an essential part of jewelry-making since ancient times. They offer various shapes, sizes, materials, and designs that allow for endless creativity in crafting unique pieces.
Let’s explore some of the exciting ways to use buttons for jewelry. Read on!
Button Bracelets
Button bracelets are versatile and easy to make. All you need is a selection of buttons, elastic string or wire, and some basic jewelry-making tools.
Buttons for sale in craft and thrift stores are usually sold in bulk, so you can mix and match different colors, styles, and sizes to create unique designs. You can also use buttons from old clothes or inherited collections for a personalized touch.
To make a button bracelet, start by threading the elastic string through the holes of your chosen buttons. Once you have enough buttons on the string to fit your wrist, tie a knot to secure the ends and trim any excess string. For a more sophisticated look, use wire instead of elastic string and add beads or other embellishments between the buttons.
Button Charms
Buttons for jewelry can also be used as charms for bracelets or necklaces. They add a playful and colorful touch to any piece of jewelry.
To make button charms, you will need jump rings, pliers, and the buttons of your choice. Start by opening a jump ring with pliers, then thread it through the button’s holes. Close the jump ring securely and attach it to a chain or cord to create a charm.
You can also use multiple buttons on one jump ring to create a cluster of charms. Mix and match different colors, sizes, and materials for a unique and eye-catching look.
Button Earrings
Button earrings are an effortless way to add a touch of whimsy to your outfits. You can make them in various shapes and sizes, depending on the buttons you choose.
To make button earrings, attach an earring post or hook to the back of a button using strong adhesive or wire wrapping techniques. You can also use buttons with shanks and attach them to earring findings using jump rings.
For a more elaborate design, try layering different buttons on top of each other. Or, try adding dangling charms from the bottom button.
Button Necklaces
Button necklaces are a fun and unique statement piece. You can either use large buttons as the focal point or layer multiple smaller buttons for a more intricate design.
To make a button necklace, start by threading a long chain through the holes of your chosen buttons. You can also add beads or charms between the buttons for added interest. Finish off with a clasp closure of your choice.
Another idea is to use buttons as the pendant for a necklace by attaching them to a chain or cord using jump rings or wire wrapping techniques. You can also create button bib necklaces by stringing multiple buttons on a wide ribbon or fabric strip and tying them around your neck.
Button Rings
Button rings are an easy and fun way to incorporate buttons into your jewelry collection. You can use large buttons as the focal point for a statement ring or stack smaller buttons for a more whimsical look.
To make a button ring, attach an adjustable ring band to the back of a button using strong adhesive or wire wrapping techniques. You can also use buttons with shanks and attach them to ring findings using jump rings.
For a unique twist, try using buttons with intricate designs or patterns as the focal point for your ring.
Button Brooches
Button brooches are a classic way to add a touch of vintage charm to any outfit. You can use large or small buttons to create different styles and designs.
To make a button brooch, start by attaching a pinback or brooch finding to the back of a button using strong adhesive or wire wrapping techniques. You can also use buttons with shanks and attach them to pinback findings using jump rings.
Experiment with layering different buttons or adding other embellishments. This includes lace, ribbon, or beads for an elegant touch.
Button Hair Accessories
Buttons for jewelry can also be used to create unique and playful hair accessories. You can use them as decorative details for headbands, hair clips, or bobby pins.
To make a button headband, simply glue buttons of different sizes onto a plain headband in any pattern you desire. For hair clips and bobby pins, attach buttons to the top using strong adhesive or wire wrapping techniques.
For a more intricate design, try layering unique buttons of different shapes and sizes. Or, try adding beads and charms to the hair accessory.
Button Cufflinks
Button cufflinks are a stylish and sophisticated way to incorporate buttons into men’s fashion. You can use shank buttons or attach button fronts to cufflink findings using strong adhesive or wire wrapping techniques.
For a unique touch, try using vintage or novelty buttons for your cufflinks. You can also personalize them by using buttons with initials or meaningful symbols.
Button Anklets
Another jewelry design idea for your buttons is anklets. These are a popular trend for summer and can easily be made using buttons. You can use elastic string or wire to create a stretchy anklet or attach buttons to a chain or cord using jump rings.
For a more bohemian look, try incorporating wooden or natural material buttons into your anklet design. Or, use colorful and playful buttons for a fun and whimsical style.
Button Embellishments
Aside from using buttons as the main element in your jewelry designs, they can also be used as decorative embellishments.
For example, you can add a button charm to the end of a bracelet or necklace chain for a unique touch. Or, use buttons to create a closure for bracelets or necklaces instead of traditional clasps.
You can also use buttons to cover knots or unsightly connections in your jewelry pieces. Simply glue a button over the knot or use it to cover a jump ring for a more polished look.
Incorporate Buttons for Jewelry With These Tips
Buttons for jewelry offer endless possibilities for creative and unique jewelry designs. So next time you are looking for a new project, don’t overlook this simple yet versatile crafting supply. Keep experimenting with different button shapes, sizes, colors, and materials to create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your style! Happy crafting!
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