How to Make Plug Earrings
The act of stretching earlobes goes a long way back, but this tradition has been given a new life where it has become a fashion statement by many. Although a wide variety of plug earrings is available in the market, but having a chance to make your own will show off your talents and provide you with a sense of achievement.
Things Required:
– Metal eyelets
– Clay
– Toothpicks
– Sandpaper
– Paring knife
– Alcohol
– Cotton swabs
Instructions
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1
Start by taking the measurement of the width and height of the metal eyelets that are going to be used to create plug earrings. Remember that the prepared clay pieces have to be smaller than these measurements. This is necessary for the polymer clay to adjust in the eyelets.
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2
Carefully fold, stretch and roll the polymer with your hands to knead it properly. After the clay has been kneaded, it will soften up which will make it easier for you to shape it. One thing which you need to remember here is that well-conditioned clay cracks less during the shaping process.
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3
You will need a paring knife and your fingers to mould the clay into a cylindrical shape just like the metal eyelets. You can create single coloured plug earrings or choose to combine different colours of clay to make various patterns of plug earrings. You can also use daily items from your home such as sandpaper and toothpicks for making different carvings on the clay.
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4
Now place these clay designs in the metal eyelets and then shave the edges of the clay with a knife to make it fit in the eyelets. This will help the clay stay firmly in the eyelets.
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5
In the next step, soak a cotton swab with alcohol and brush the clay designs. This will help you make the clay smooth and remove the fingerprints. You can then rub a towel soaked in alcohol on the eyelets to remove the excess clay from the outer end. Now wait for the alcohol to dry on the clay and the eyelets.
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6
Place the earrings on a baking sheet to bake the clay at around 215 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about fifteen to thirty minutes in an oven. However, it is advised to read the baking instructions on the packing of your clay as these vary between different brands.
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7
After the baking time is completed take out the earrings and while keeping them on the baking sheet, leave them to cool down to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
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8
Once the earrings have cooled off, brush them with non-toxic acrylic sealant which will make them glossy. You can now insert them in your ears.
