đ 12 Things To Make With Old Jewelry
Your tangled necklace graveyard called. It wants a second act, preferably one that doesnât involve dust bunnies. Letâs turn those sparkly misfits into chic, useful, and low-effort upgrades for your space and style. Warning: you may become the person who saves every broken earring back⊠on purpose.
1. Luxe Picture Frame Embellishments
Give a plain frame red-carpet energy. Cluster old brooches and rhinestones along the corners for instant glam. Mix sizes and shapes for texture.
Why itâs great: Easy, fast, and looks expensive. Works on thrifted frames too.
Pro tip: Lay out your design first, then use strong craft glue or a hot glue gun sparingly. Seal with a clear gloss for extra hold.
It works because the sparkle draws the eye right to your favorite photo.
2. Statement Hair Combs and Barrettes
Snap off earring posts and glue the gems onto metal combs or clips. Hello, vintage bridal vibes minus the price tag.
Why itâs great: Turns random singles into a matching hair set.
Pro tip: Rough up the metal surface with sandpaper so the glue grips better. Add a felt backing for comfort.
It works because small pieces make a big impact when clustered together.
3. Boho Bookmark Charms
Make your reading habit look cute. Attach a dangling charm to ribbon or leather cord for a chic bookmark.
Why itâs great: Zero skill needed, 100 percent vibe.
Pro tip: Use crimp beads or a fold-over cord end for a clean finish, and add a jump ring for easy charm swapping.
It works because itâs lightweight, practical, and giftable.
4. Drawer Pull Makeover
Swap boring knobs for jewel-topped pulls. Glue flat-backed pieces to standard knobs for instant drama.
Why itâs great: Elevates a dresser in one episode of your favorite show.
Pro tip: Choose sturdy, flat surfaces like cabochons and seal edges with epoxy for durability.
It works because texture and shine upgrade even budget furniture.
5. Lamp Shade Fringe
Hang beaded chains and old pendants around a plain shade. Boomâart deco energy activated.
Why itâs great: Adds motion and sparkle when the light hits.
Pro tip: Use fishing line or jump rings to create even drapes. Keep pieces away from the bulb to avoid heat.
It works because layered lengths create a luxe silhouette.
6. Chic Bookmark Magnets
Sandwich a small charm between adhesive magnet strips. It snaps onto the page like it owns the chapter.
Why itâs great: Slim, secure, and cute on planners too.
Pro tip: Keep pieces light. Heavy metal? Save it for another project.
It works because magnets donât slipâunlike your patience for tangled chains.
7. Keychain With Personality
Cluster a few sturdy charms on a keyring. Mix metals for a curated, collected feel.
Why itâs great: Youâll spot your keys faster, and theyâll jingle pretty.
Pro tip: Use split rings instead of jump rings for strength. Add a short chain for movement.
It works because functional items deserve flair.
8. Napkin Ring Glow-Up
Wrap ribbon or wire around a simple ring and add a brooch or pendant. Dinner table, but make it fancy.
Why itâs great: Instant tablescape upgrade for pennies.
Pro tip: Choose washable bases and use removable pin-backs so you can change the look per season.
It works because repeated sparkle across the table looks cohesive and intentional.
9. Shadow Box Heirloom Art
Curate your favorite pieces in a shadow box. Tell a story without wearing it.
Why itâs great: Preserves sentimental items safely and beautifully.
Pro tip: Pin pieces to a fabric-covered foam board. Add small labels for family history.
It works because nostalgia plus design equals instant wall-worthy art.
10. Zipper Pull Charms
Attach tiny charms to jackets, makeup bags, or backpacks. They add a subtle sparkle and better grip.
Why itâs great: Cute and practical. Small effort, big payoff.
Pro tip: Use lobster clasps for easy swap-outs. Keep edges smooth so they donât snag fabric.
It works because micro-details elevate everyday items.
11. Planter Glam Chains
Dress up hanging planters with beaded strands and pendants. Your pothos deserves a necklace too.
Why itâs great: Adds shine and visual balance to greenery.
Pro tip: Choose pieces that wonât rust outdoors. Use S-hooks for easy placement.
It works because metallic accents contrast beautifully with leaves.
12. Custom Wine Charms
Turn single earrings into glass markers. Never mix up your drink again, even after⊠a few.
Why itâs great: Functional, festive, and party-proof.
Pro tip: Use memory wire or small hoops and add one distinct charm per glass.
It works because unique charms make instant identifiers.
- Tools youâll use often: jump rings, split rings, jewelry pliers, strong craft glue, epoxy.
- Good bases: frames, combs, hair clips, keyrings, ribbon, wire, magnet strips.
- Safety basics: avoid heat near bulbs, secure sharp edges, test adhesion before daily use.
Conclusion
Your old jewelry isnât junk. Itâs a treasure chest of parts waiting for their comeback tour. Pick one project, raid your stash, and let the sparkle live againâno tangled chains left behind.
