When looking for earrings, I always look for a set that are unique and appealing to my tastes, building upon a current wardrobe, as I don't think I would ever wear earrings that I didn't have anything to match them up with in some fashion. The most important feature to consider when you are going to convert vintage earrings to post earrings is if the back of the earring has a flat enough surface to hold a post. Sadly, there have been one or two sets that I have had to pass up, as the backs were in just too bad of a shape to convert and last.
Items you'll need to convert vintage earrings
Two-part epoxy (make sure to check label that solution is safe on metal and/or plastic)
Q-tips
Wire snips
Metal file
Flat back earring posts (typically found in any crafts store)
Rubber or metal earring backs (typically found in any crafts store)
Cardboard piece (thick enough to work on with the epoxy)
The first step in converting to post earrings is the removal of the old hardware on the back of the earrings. I use wire snips or a pair of needle-nose pliers to twist off the clips or screwbacks at the very base of the surface, as close as you can get. I then use a metal file to wear down any left over stump from the clip or screwback. This may take a little time, but not as much if you got as close as possible to the flat surface on the back of the earring. You want to have the surface flat so that the post will lie flat and adhere better to the backing. I then snip off the head of a q-tip, which works great in mixing the epoxy and applying it to the backing. Next, I mix the two parts of the epoxy on the cardboard piece and get right to setting the posts on the back of the earrings. You will have to work in a timely manner, since the epoxy will start to set if you leave it for too long. I dab the cut end of the q-tip in the epoxy and swirl a small amount on the flat surface of the earring post, then apply directly to the earring back. I set the posts in the very center of the earring back, though you can go higher if you desire. You will still have a minute or two for moving the back around to get the placement just where you want it. Lastly, I set the earrings back-side facing up on a flat surface to dry untouched for about 24 hours, when the epoxy will be fully set and dry. The earrings are then ready to wear!
I have purchased many sets over the years that have found a wonderful new home where they will be cared for and used each and every day. Some can be purchased for only a few dollars if you find a good deal; others I have paid more for but they were well worth it. In my opinion, you just can't find the selection, quality and craftsmanship in today's reproduction earrings like you can with the real deal!
Happy crafting, all!
Sincerely, Crystal
A vintage find from a flea market, unconverted.
I'm a sucker for green and polka dots!
The earring posts and backings that I use.
Just a few of the vintage finds I have located and
converted to pierced earrings.
