Introduction: Upholstery Button Earstuds

By Take a look at our light boxes
About: I love to cook, ride bike (and repair) and build whatever I can think of building; even if I'm not able to do it or I don't have the necessary equipment! :D

Weeks ago I had the chance to find out how upholstery buttons are made.

These buttons gave me the idea to make these simple earstuds with them.

Step 1: Materials

To make these earrings you'll need:

  • A pair of upholstery buttons* - mine have a diameter of 18 mm (0,7'')
  • 2 Studs for earrings
  • Epoxy glue
  • Dremel with an abrasive cylinder or something else for sanding


* If you want to make your buttons by yourself you'll need:

  • 2 Wire eye buttons and shells
  • Upholstery button machine and dies
  • A piece of fabric you like

Step 2: Make the Buttons

I tried to make these buttons by myself so I'm going to show you how to make them. If you already have them, you can skip this step and proceed with the making of the earrings.

Cut a round piece of fabric that is a little bigger than the button shell.
Place it on one half of the die and push the shell on the fabric to insert it in the die.
Gather all of the exceeding fabric to the center of the shell.
Insert the wire eye button upside down in the other half of the die.
Close the die joining the 2 sides together.
Place your die in the button machine and press firmly.
Open the die and remove your button.

Now your first button is done. Repeat these steps to make another one.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttons

Using pliers, cut out the wire eye part of the button to flatten the back.

Being very careful not to ruin the fabric, smooth the surface of your button using a sanding tool (I used my Dremel). It must be as flat as possible.

Do this for both of your buttons.

Step 4: Apply the Studs

Mix the epoxy glue following the instructions on your package.

To apply it on the stud, lay the flat part on the glue and quickly place it on the back of the button, trying to center it as much as possible.

Do this for both buttons and let the glue dry completely.

Step 5: Final Result

Your new earrings are ready.

You can make these earstuds using any fabric you like. Have fun!

If you liked this instructable, please vote for it in the contests, thanks!

And if you like jewelry, take a look at my other instructable on how to make a shamrock pendant.