Make Your Own Accessories

Making your own accessories is a budget-conscious, creative, and downright fun thing to do. Stop buying those store trinkets and start manufacturing your own. Who knows: you might even like doing it so much that you decide to launch a whole range of your own!

Steps

Getting Ideas

  1. Identify what you need. Are there any accessories you could use more of or are missing from your wardrobe? Think about what you use or could use. This can be practical or it can be fun. It's up to you!
  2. Look for opportunities. Maybe your boyfriend has a birthday coming up and could use a new winter hat. Maybe your sister is graduating and a handmade necklace would be a great way to mark the occasion. Think about the people and events around you to look for inspiration.
  3. Browse magazines and the web. There are lots of great websites about DIY fashion. Don't forget about social sites like Pinterest too. Look through magazines for great designer accessories that you can recreate yourself.

Gathering Materials and Supplies

  1. Use what you have. Find old clothing and jewelry that can be upcycled or used for parts. An old pair of jeans could become a new purse or a broken necklace could be used to make a new eyeglass chain. This can save money and help the environment by making less waste.
  2. Go to thrift stores. Thrift stores, vintage stores and consignment shops will have cheap materials that can be used to make all sorts of things.
  3. Buy new. Craft stores and hardware stores will carry any supplies you can't get used. This is where you will have to go for special materials, like glue or sewing supplies.
    • Make sure to check your local newspapers for coupons. Many craft and hardware stores will offer broad coupons in the local Sunday paper that can be used on any product in the store. This can significantly reduce your costs.

Types of Accessories

  1. Make your own hair accessories. Hair accessories can be practical and fun! Here are some ideas to use:
  2. Make a Cool Belt. Belts are often an easy way to add subtle personal style to your outfits. They can also make great gifts for the men in your life, if made from the right materials. Here are some ideas to try:
  3. Make your own necklaces, bracelets and bangles. Necklaces and bracelets are fantastically fun to make and a great way to exercise your creative abilities, while unique bangles can really set you apart from the crowd. Have a look through the many ideas Necklace and Choker Projects as well as these ideas to get you started:
  4. Make your own handbag or purse. Making your own can save a lot of money, as purses and handbags are often expensive. This is also a great opportunity to let your own style shine through since fashion trends leave most purses looking largely the same. Here are some ideas:

Tips

  • Take a class. Many local community centers and colleges offer short, cheap classes on skills relating to making your own accessories. Look through your local guides for classes on sewing, sculpting, and metal work in order to build your skills.
  • Think about other accessories that might be suitable for making yourself, such as shoe bows, anklets, socks, hats and scarves.
  • When deciding on an accessory project, you should consider your own personal skill level (as well as your desires and personal style) before choosing which project is right for you. All of these accessories can be as simple or complex as you need or want them to be.
  • Remember that you don't have to follow instructions. You can always design your own accessories and make them without instructions. Sometimes this is more difficult but it will allow you more creative freedom.
  • Add your own designer label to everything you make. Give your handmade accessories to friends and word will soon spread about your incredible designs! You may even want to start your own business.

Things You'll Need

  • Purchase items needed from jeweler's, craft stores, thrift stores, art stores, bead stores, etc. but don't forget to look at what you already own as well!
  • Useful items include: basic sewing supplies, craft glue, beads, clay, paint, string, yarn and thread, scissors, and measuring tape.

Sources and Citations

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