The Art of Crafting Origami Paper Earrings: Why You Should Make Your Own
It’s amazing how something as simple as paper can be transformed into beautiful, wearable art. You can take your favorite paper creations, whether they’re dyed with bright and different colors or textured with unique patterns using techniques like gelli prints, Momigami, Suminagashi marbling, or the National Geographic CitraSolv process, and turn them into stunning handmade paper earrings.
One of the best things about making paper jewelry is its sustainability. By repurposing your paper projects, you’re not only creating something beautiful but also reducing waste. And don’t let anyone tell you that paper jewelry is fragile. With some care and sealing, these paper earrings can be surprisingly durable and perfect for everyday wear.
In this post, we will learn about the art of paper jewelry making, specifically how to make paper earrings.
How to Make Paper Earrings Origami Style
Jewelry comes in countless forms, each with a personal style. There’s a special joy in wearing something you’ve made with your own hands. The process of folding paper you’ve altered can be meditative and fulfilling, providing a sense of accomplishment once you see the finished product. Handmade earrings are not just accessories; they truly are a statement of your skills and creativity. Every time you wear them, you’re reminded of the love that went into making them.
Materials:
- Decorative papers of your choice (Qty: 4 – 1 3/4″ paper squares)
- Mod Podge or any decoupage glue
- 11/0 Seed Beads or any Accent beads, sequins, or other embellishments (Qty: 6)
- Earring Wire (See How to Make Earring Wires 2 Different Ways) (Qty: 2)
- 4 mm Jump ring (Qty: 2)
- 2″ Headpin (Qty: 2)
Tools:
- X-Acto knife, Scissors, or a rotary cutter
- Metal Ruler
- Pen or marker
- Paintbrush (for applying Mod Podge)
- Bone Folder
- Needle or sharp pin (to make a tiny hole for the head pin)
- Small bowl or container for glue
- Flat Nose Pliers (for opening and closing jump rings)
- Needle Nose Pliers
- Cutting mat (to protect work surface when cutting on a flat surface)
Other Supplies:
- Craft glue or a glue stick (optional)
- Acrylic mediums to protect and seal paper jewelry in a glossy finish or matte
- Paper towel or cloth
Step 1: Selecting and Preparing Your Paper
Selecting Paper:
- Thickness: Choose thicker, more durable paper than standard printer paper. Scrapbook paper, cardstock, and origami paper are good options. Experiment with paper weights and paper types to create your own earring design.
- Design: Look for papers with interesting patterns, solid colors, or textures that add visual interest to your earrings. Pay attention to the side of the paper you will work with for your final design.
Click the links below to learn these paper techniques.
Momigami (Japanese Kneading Paper)
Preparing Paper:
- Cutting: Use scissors or a craft knife to cut the paper into the desired size for your earrings. Our example is a 1 3/4″ square. You will need 4 – 1 3/4″ squares to create one set of earrings.
- Backings: For added durability, you can glue the paper onto a sturdier backing material, such as cardstock before cutting out your squares.
Step 2: How to fold paper earrings
Download the Step-by-step PDF guide or watch the YouTube video.
Step 3: Assembling the Jewelry
Download the Step-by-step PDF guide or watch the YouTube video.
Finishing Touches
Sealing and protecting the jewelry.
- Sealing: To make the paper more durable and water-resistant, consider sealing it with a Maker Magic, Mod Podge, Acrylic mediums, clear sealant spray, or clear nail polish. This will also help protect the paper from moisture and wear over time.
Step 4: Experimenting with Shapes and Sizes
Now that you have created your first pair of paper earrings following our directions, it’s time to experiment with what you have learned. The origami bead design lends itself to unlimited design possibilities. How can you put your creative twist on this simple origami design?
In Conclusion
Creating your own origami paper earrings using altered papers like Momigami, Suminagashi, and National Geographic CitraSolv is a beautiful and sustainable way to express your creativity. These unique earrings are not only eco-friendly but also wearable art, which you can wear, gift, or sell. The options are limitless. I hope you enjoyed this project. Feel free to upload your creations. I would love to see them and hear from you.
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