DIY Boho Style Earrings: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Updated at: 31/01/2025

Boho style is all about embracing free-spirited individuality and effortless chic, and what better way to express that than with a pair of unique, handmade earrings? Forget mass-produced jewelry; this tutorial will guide you through creating your own stunning boho-inspired earrings, perfectly tailored to your personal taste and style. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, you'll be surprised at how easy it is to achieve a beautiful, handcrafted look. These earrings are perfect for adding a touch of bohemian flair to any outfit, from flowing sundresses to casual jeans.

This project lets you unleash your creativity with a range of materials, from colorful beads and feathers to delicate chains and natural elements. We'll explore different techniques and design ideas to inspire your own creations. Ready to get started on your own bohemian earring adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step process below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 18 gauge wire
  • 24 gauge wire
  • beads (turquoise rondelles, pear-shaped beads, carnelian briolette)
  • chain nose pliers
  • hammer (optional, with flat and ball-peen sides)
  • dowel or ring mandrel (optional)
  • ear wires (20 gauge, 1.5 inches)
  • wire cutters
  • jewelry file or nail file
  • rounder tool (optional)
  • wire straightening pliers (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children if they are participating in any crafting activities involving small parts like beads or jump rings, to prevent choking hazards.
  • When working with wire or sharp tools, exercise caution to avoid cuts or injuries. Use appropriate protective measures like gloves if necessary.
  • Be mindful of any allergies you or the recipient may have to specific materials like certain metals or adhesives. Choose hypoallergenic options where needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Earring Frame

    • Cut 3 inches of 18 gauge wire and bend it in half to create a symmetrical shape. Compare it to your first earring (if making a pair) for evenness.
    Prepare the earring frame: Cut 3 inches of 18 gauge wire and bend it in half to create a symmetrical shape. Compare it to your first earring (if making a pair) for evenness.
    Prepare the Earring Frame

  2. Shape the Frame

    • Curl down the edges to form two loops for the ear wire. Use fingers, a dowel, or ring mandrel to shape it evenly.
    Shape the frame: Curl down the edges to form two loops for the ear wire. Use fingers, a dowel, or ring mandrel to shape it evenly.
    Shape the Frame

  3. Hammer the Frame (Optional)

    • For added stiffness, hammer the frame using the flat side then the ball-peen side for a hammered look. Readjust frame if necessary after hammering.
    Hammer (optional): For added stiffness, hammer the frame using the flat side then the ball-peen side for a hammered look. Readjust frame if necessary after hammering.
    Hammer the Frame (Optional)

  4. Prepare Beading Wire

    • Cut approximately 1.5 feet of 24 gauge wire. It's better to have extra wire.
    Prepare the beading wire: Cut approximately 1.5 feet of 24 gauge wire. It's better to have extra wire.
    Prepare Beading Wire

  5. Attach Beading Wire

    • Wrap the wire around one side of the frame once or twice, then wrap the tail around to secure; aim for around four wraps total. Use chain nose pliers to secure the wraps.
    Attach the beading wire: Wrap the wire around one side of the frame once or twice, then wrap the tail around to secure; aim for around four wraps total. Use chain nose pliers to secure the wraps.
    Attach Beading Wire

  6. Add Beads to One Side

    • Starting with the beading wire attached to the frame, add beads using a pattern of two and a half wraps between beads (one full wrap, another full wrap, then a half wrap before adding the next bead).
    Add beads: Starting with the beading wire attached to the frame, add beads using a pattern of two and a half wraps between beads (one full wrap, another full wrap, then a half wrap before adding the next bead).
    Add Beads to One Side

  7. Add Center Briolette Bead

    • String a carnelian briolette bead onto 24 gauge wire, bending the wires up to frame the top of the bead, and then creating a loop at the top.
    Add center briolette bead: String a carnelian briolette bead onto 24 gauge wire, bending the wires up to frame the top of the bead, and then creating a loop at the top.
    Add Center Briolette Bead

  8. Wrap Center Bead

    • Wrap the two wires down the sides of the briolette bead, creating a rustic wrap by wrapping multiple times. Trim excess wire and tuck in the ends.
    Wrap the center bead: Wrap the two wires down the sides of the briolette bead, creating a rustic wrap by wrapping multiple times. Trim excess wire and tuck in the ends.
    Wrap Center Bead

  9. Add Beads to Other Side

    • Add beads to the other side, following the same pattern. If wire runs short, add more wire by wrapping it securely and continuing the beading process.
    Continue beading: Add beads to the other side, following the same pattern. If wire runs short, add more wire by wrapping it securely and continuing the beading process.
    Add Beads to Other Side

  10. Finish Beading

    • After adding all the desired beads, wrap the wire securely, trim the excess, and tuck in the ends.
    Finish beading: After adding all the desired beads, wrap the wire securely, trim the excess, and tuck in the ends.
    Finish Beading

  11. Attach Ear Wires

    • Cut 1.5 inches of 20 gauge wire. Create a loop on one end, bend it around a pen to shape it, and attach it to the frame loops. File the ends to remove any sharp edges.
    Attach ear wires: Cut 1.5 inches of 20 gauge wire. Create a loop on one end, bend it around a pen to shape it, and attach it to the frame loops. File the ends to remove any sharp edges.
    Attach Ear Wires

Read more: Twisted Wire Spiral Earrings: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • When making a pair of earrings, constantly compare them to ensure they're even.
  • Use a stiffer wire to avoid the need for hammering.
  • It's better to have more beading wire than less.
  • Adjust the number of beads and the frame size to accommodate different bead sizes.
  • The ear wire should have a slight spring to it for easy wear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Glue Application

Reason: Uneven glue distribution on the earring components leads to a lopsided or messy final product.
Solution: Apply glue evenly and sparingly using a toothpick or a fine-tipped applicator, ensuring complete coverage of the contact areas.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Glue

Reason: Incorrect glue may not adhere properly to the materials used, resulting in falling apart earrings.
Solution: Use a strong adhesive specifically designed for jewelry making, like E6000 or a similar craft glue.

3. Improper Curing Time

Reason: Insufficient drying time before handling can lead to the components shifting or the glue becoming smudged.
Solution: Allow the glue to cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before wearing or handling the earrings.