DIY Wonky House Brooches: The Fastest & Easiest Method

Updated at: 27/01/2025

Charming, quirky, and utterly unique – wonky houses are the perfect symbol of cozy individualism. And now, you can wear your love of these whimsical dwellings on your lapel with these easy-to-make DIY brooches! Forget fiddly techniques and hours of crafting; this guide unveils the absolute fastest and easiest method for creating your own adorable wonky house brooch. We’ll be using readily available materials and simple techniques, making this project accessible to crafters of all skill levels, even complete beginners. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can transform humble craft supplies into a miniature masterpiece.

Forget spending a fortune on pre-made accessories – unleash your creativity and make a truly personal statement. This project is perfect for adding a touch of whimsical charm to your outfit, or even creating unique gifts for friends and family. Ready to get started on creating your own adorable wonky house brooch? Let's dive into the simple step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Embroidered felt houses
  • Scissors
  • Glue gun
  • Brooch pin
  • Optional: Felt tip pen
  • Cardboard/Paper for card
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children when using sharp objects like scissors or craft knives.
  • Use hot glue with caution. It can cause burns. Work on a heat-resistant surface and allow ample cooling time before handling.
  • If using small components like beads or sequins, be mindful of choking hazards, especially if making brooches for young children.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Embroidered House

    • Prepare your embroidered felt house. Cut around the house, leaving raw edges.
    Prepare your embroidered felt house. Cut around the house, leaving raw edges.
    Prepare the Embroidered House

  2. Prepare the Brooch Base

    • Select a brooch base (piece of felt or similar material).
    Select a brooch base (piece of felt or similar material).
    Prepare the Brooch Base

  3. Attach the House to the Base

    • Apply hot glue to the back of the felt house.
    • Attach the felt house to the brooch base.
    Attach the felt house to the brooch base.Attach the felt house to the brooch base.
    Attach the House to the Base

  4. Trim Excess Material

    • Trim excess brooch base material, leaving a clean edge around the house.
    Trim excess brooch base material, leaving a clean edge around the house.
    Trim Excess Material

  5. Attach the Brooch Pin

    • Attach the brooch pin using hot glue, ensuring a strong bond.
    Attach the brooch pin using hot glue, ensuring a strong bond.
    Attach the Brooch Pin
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Tips

  • Use a glue gun for quick and secure attachment. It sets rapidly.
  • Don't worry about perfectly clean edges; the slightly raw edges add character.
  • Add details with a felt-tip pen, like smoke from chimneys.
  • To create a gift card, add the brooch to a handmade or store-bought card with relevant embellishments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Glue Application

Reason: Uneven glue distribution leads to wobbly or lopsided brooches.
Solution: Ensure a thin, even layer of glue is applied to all contact surfaces before attaching the house pieces.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Glue

Reason: Incorrect glue may not adhere properly or might seep through the materials, creating a mess.
Solution: Use a strong, quick-drying adhesive suitable for both paper/cardstock and your chosen embellishments.

3. Improper Brooch Pin Attachment

Reason: Loose or incorrectly positioned pins can result in a wobbly or insecure brooch.
Solution: Securely attach the pin to the back of the house structure with a strong adhesive and allow sufficient drying time before wearing.

FAQs

What kind of clay is best for making wonky house brooches?
Polymer clay is ideal because it's lightweight, durable, and bakes to become hard. Air-dry clay works too, but it can be more brittle.
How do I attach the brooch pin?
Once your clay house is baked and cooled, simply attach a brooch pin to the back using strong craft glue designed for jewelry making. Make sure the glue is completely dry before wearing.