Upcycled jewelry or making some one-of-a-kind jewelry for myself is something I absolutely love to do. Whether I make some repurposed jewelry out of random items from around the house or from broken jewelry, I love it all the same.
In fact, I can’t even recall the last time I bought fashion jewelry at a big box store! I love the feeling of wearing cuff bracelets or cute necklaces that are one-of-a-kind to me. (As such, this post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience.)
Such as this piece of Fordite. Not familiar with Fordite? Well, it’s a manmade “gemstone” that comes from old car factories.
Layers and layers of car paint, built up over time. The layers are cut and polished by jewelry artists (like this Etsy shop), isn’t that amazing?
And I’ve created several upcycled jewelry pieces for my blog! First, a pearl and hemp bracelet made from a strand of pearls from the thrift store.
And these wooden pendants made from upcycled tennis rackets, of all things!
Repurposing old jewelry or broken jewelry is a great way to reinvigorate a pretty piece. There are tons of bracelet ideas and necklace ideas for any kind of style that you love. And of course, rings, earrings, and pins or brooches, too!
To say “the sky’s the limit” is putting it mildly when it comes to upcycled jewelry or repurposed jewelry! Heck, I even made jewelry from flannel shirts for my first book!
So, I’ve gathered some of my favorite jewelry making ideas around. And all of this upcycled jewelry uses either vintage jewelry or unexpected treasures that work perfectly as accessories!
DIY Ideas for Upcycled Jewelry
So, what kind of upcycled jewelry will YOU be making in the near future? Here are some other jewelry making ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Create couple necklaces by upcycling a pair of vintage earrings or using the same pattern of antique silverware;
- Bracelet ideas with unusual elements, such as old guitar strings;
- Repurposing vintage buttons into a necklace or cute bracelet; or
- Locket necklace paired up with antique rosary beads.
Remember when I said the sky’s the limit when it comes to repurposed jewelry or upcycled jewelry? I wasn’t kidding, was I?
These “coins” started out as vintage metal buttons, if you can believe it.
Hope this inspires you to look at jewelry making supplies differently. And to grab any broken jewelry when you see it on the cheap at thrift stores or antique malls! You can always salvage parts from that, as well.
If you enjoyed this collection of upcycled jewelry and jewelry making ideas, then you’ll love this project for a ring holder from a cigar box!
And along the lines of upcycled accessories, check out what I made from cloth face masks that I no longer need to wear!
Craft on!
S
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Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
I love these ideas! Especially the bent spoons and spools. Very creative!
Thank you, Elizabeth!
I really like the smashed metal button bracelet! I think I have the supplies to do that one immediately! What fun!
You are very creative and talented! I’m off to visit your Etsy shop…
Eilis@MyHeartLivesHere
Thank you! I’m sorry you caught me while I had my shop “on vacation”- am traveling for work this week! BUT the shop is back open for business now. 🙂 https://www.etsy.com/shop/SadieSeasongoods
These are so pretty…very creative! Thanks for sharing on Hit Me With Your Best Shot
http://www.mylifeinprogress.org
Thank you!
These pieces are so beautiful! I am especially crazy about that smashed button “coin” bracelet. You are very talented! Thanks for linking up at Inspiration Thursday! Hope to see you next week.
Thank you so much!
Great ideas! I love the leather pendant 😀 Thank you for sharing!
Thanks, Veronika!
These are beautiful. I really like the little clock and metal buttons pieces. Thanks for sharing at the #HomeMattersParty – we’re looking forward to what you have to share next week. 🙂
~Lorelai
Life With Lorelai
I love every one of these ideas, but my favorite are the adorable thread spool and fabric necklaces! They’d make adorable key chains too…I might just have to make myself one! Thanks for linking up at Create. Dream. Inspire. Link.
Lots of fun jewelry! I have made a hammered spoon necklace and it was fun. hanks for sharing with SYC.
hugs,
Jann
Thanks, Jann!
so many great ideas and all so lovely! I am seriously going to have to hit the thrift stores and yard sales so I can create my own line of jewelry 🙂 I hope you come back Friday and link to our upcycle craft challenge link party!
Yes!! Send me a reminder tomorrow or Saturday!!
will do 🙂 Hopefully lol
I love all of these! I can’t even pick just one favorite! Thanks so much for sharing. Can’t wait to make some beautiful one-of-a-kind jewelry!
Love these jewelry projects! Especially the coin bracelet and the pulley pendant. So cute! Thanks for sharing at Merry Monday, hope to see you again tomorrow night!
Thank you!
Pretty, pretty, pretty! I love those boho bracelets!
Love these jewlery pieces. I used to make beaded crochet bracelets, I dont have time any more. but Where do you find the time. Its amazing what you do.
Maria
Blogging is my full time job now!
Lots of great ideas! I love the one with the key, and the mini book! I think I have a thing for old keys. ?
Oh, me, too!!! Love them and can’t stop collecting them.
Luv your blog. You have given me inspiration for some new projects. Thank you
Thank you, Nannette!