DIY Red Jasper Earrings: Bargain Bit Box Tutorial

Updated at: 04/02/2025

Red jasper, with its rich earthy tones and captivating energy, makes for stunning jewelry. And what better way to enjoy this beautiful stone than by crafting your own pair of earrings? This tutorial will guide you through creating a unique and stylish pair of red jasper earrings, all from the treasures you can likely find in your own "bargain bit box" – that collection of craft supplies, beads, and findings gathered over time. Forget expensive kits and pre-made jewelry; we're unlocking the potential of repurposed materials for a truly satisfying and budget-friendly project. We'll transform humble beginnings into a sophisticated accessory that reflects your personal style.

This DIY project is perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, requiring minimal tools and materials. The best part? You'll likely already have most of what you need! Prepare to unleash your creativity and discover the joy of crafting something beautiful and unique. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your stunning red jasper earrings.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Red Jasper (10mm or 8mm)
  • Lever backs
  • Charm
  • 11-0 seed beads (dark bronze)
  • 15-0 seed beads (dark bronze)
  • Beading needle (size 12)
  • Zinger nylon thread
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling beads and findings to prevent the spread of germs and maintain hygiene.
  • Use appropriate tools for each step. Forcing tools can lead to injury or damage to your materials.
  • If you experience any skin irritation from the materials, discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Thread and Initial Bead

    • Secure the thread and first bead. Make a few knots.
    Secure the thread and first bead. Make a few knots.
    Prepare the Thread and Initial Bead

  2. Create the First Beaded Row

    • One bronze bead, two brown beads, repeating until nine bronze beads with brown beads in between are on the thread.
    Create the base beading pattern: One bronze bead, two brown beads, repeating until nine bronze beads with brown beads in between are on the thread.
    Create the First Beaded Row

  3. Form the First Beaded Circle

    • Form a circle with the beaded pattern, securing it by weaving the needle through a few more beads.
    Form a circle with the beaded pattern, securing it by weaving the needle through a few more beads.
    Form the First Beaded Circle

  4. Create the Second Beaded Row

    • Create the second row using only brown beads, placing two brown beads between each bronze bead from the first row.
    Create the second row using only brown beads, placing two brown beads between each bronze bead from the first row.
    Create the Second Beaded Row

  5. Create the Third Beaded Row

    • one bronze bead between two brown beads.
    Add the third row: one bronze bead between two brown beads.
    Create the Third Beaded Row

  6. Close the First Circle

    • Weave the needle through the first bronze bead to close the pattern.
    Weave the needle through the first bronze bead to close the pattern.
    Close the First Circle

  7. Complete the Second Beaded Circle

    • Repeat step 5 until the second circle is complete and secure.
    Repeat step 5 until the second circle is complete and secure.
    Complete the Second Beaded Circle

  8. Insert the Jasper Bead

    • Insert the red jasper bead into the center of the beaded circle.
    Insert the red jasper bead into the center of the beaded circle.
    Insert the Jasper Bead

  9. Secure the Jasper Bead (Side 1)

    • Add 15-0 seed beads between the 11-0 bronze beads to secure the jasper bead.
    • Secure the red jasper bead by weaving the needle through the surrounding beads and optionally through the jasper bead's holes.
    Secure the red jasper bead by weaving the needle through the surrounding beads and optionally through the jasper bead's holes.Secure the red jasper bead by weaving the needle through the surrounding beads and optionally through the jasper bead's holes.
    Secure the Jasper Bead (Side 1)

  10. Secure the Jasper Bead (Side 2)

    • Repeat steps 9 & 10 on the opposite side.
    Repeat steps 9 & 10 on the opposite side.
    Secure the Jasper Bead (Side 2)

  11. Create Top Loop

    • Create a loop at the top of the earring by threading 7 15-0 beads and securing the loop.
    Create a loop at the top of the earring by threading 7 15-0 beads and securing the loop.
    Create Top Loop

  12. Create Bottom Loop

    • Repeat step 12 at the bottom of the earring.
    Repeat step 12 at the bottom of the earring.
    Create Bottom Loop

  13. Attach the Charm

    • Attach the charm using a jump ring.
    Attach the charm using a jump ring.
    Attach the Charm

  14. Attach the Lever Back

    • Attach the lever back to the top of the earring.
    Attach the lever back to the top of the earring.
    Attach the Lever Back

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

Tips

  • Use a size 12 beading needle and Zinger nylon thread for best results.
  • Secure your loops well to prevent the earring from falling apart.
  • Be careful when attaching the lever back to avoid crushing the bead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unevenly Sized Beads

Reason: Using beads of inconsistent size creates an unbalanced and unprofessional look.
Solution: Carefully measure and select beads of the same or very similar size before stringing.

2. Weak Knots/Insufficient Securing

Reason: Weak knots or improperly secured findings can lead to the earrings falling apart or losing beads.
Solution: Use strong, double or triple knots, and employ appropriate jewelry-making glue for added security.

3. Improper Earring Wire Usage

Reason: Incorrectly using earring wires can lead to discomfort or even injury, as well as an unprofessional finish.
Solution: Ensure the earring wire is properly crimped or secured with jump rings and consider using comfortable, hypoallergenic options.

FAQs

What kind of wire is best for making these earrings?
For beginners, 20-22 gauge wire is ideal. It's easy to work with and strong enough to hold the jasper beads.
Where can I find bargain bit boxes for jewelry making?
Check online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy, or visit local craft stores. Look for terms like 'jewelry findings lot' or 'bulk bead assortment'.
My red jasper beads are different sizes. Does that matter?
It's fine if your beads aren't perfectly uniform. A slight variation often adds to the unique charm of handmade jewelry. Just ensure they are all securely wired.