By Gabrielle Dalip, Tarpon Springs High
 
You have probably seen small ear cuffs on the shelves at places such as Urban Outfitters, Topshop, or even on Etsy. But cuffs, no longer content to stick close in a tight hug of your ear, have gone to new lengths.

Being the crafty staff that we are, and always happy for a bargain, we decided to make this look instead of buying it. Don’t know about you, but I always feel just a tad bit cooler when I respond “I made it.” Instead of  “I bought it at ___” 

Our inspiration came from Topshop's star chain ear cuff (see photo).

What you’ll need (Available at craft stores):

• One piece of thick wire, long enough to fit around your ear.
• One small-link chain 8 inches or longer
• 5-10 mini rings to attach the chain to the ear cuff. These rings should be the ones that can open and close.
• Jewelry pliers

1. Using the jewelry pliers, twist the wire to make as many loops as you want. (the more loops the more chains can fit on the cuff!) The loops should be fairly small. Make sure to put a loop at both ends of the wire to keep this cuff nice and comfy, with no pokes from the wire ends.

2. After you have established the loops, shape the wire to cuff around the back of your ear.
 
3. Cut the chain into the same number of pieces as you have loops, in varying lengths. You can use a longer chain if want longer lengths or more pieces hanging from the cuff.

4. Open the small rings with pliers just wide enough to place the ring inside the end link of the chain.
 
5. After you place the chain onto the ring, attach the rings onto the loops of wire. The shortest length of chain should go at the bottom loop of the cuff, and the longest chain on the top loop. Close each small ring with the pliers.

For a heavier looking cuff, make sure you twist a lot of loops into your wire. For a cleaner and simpler look, five loops will do the trick. Don’t be afraid to vary in chain color and size. Alternate black and silver chains for a rocker-chic look, or use gold chains to accentuate darker color links. Don’t be afraid of this trend!

Happy DIY-ing!


Photo credit: topshop.com