Nostalgia FTW: Make a Clay Bead Statement Necklace

When’s the last time you busted out a few packages of Sculpey and went to town on making beads? Summer camp, perhaps? For today’s edition of #31DaysofDIY, we’re throwing it back to our clay days. This material isn’t just for kiddie crafts — with a few simple steps, you can make yourself a gorgeous color block statement necklace.

No idea what #31DaysofDIY is? It’s a brand new tradition here at Brit + Co that’s all about kicking off 2015 right. We’ve challenged ourselves to make or learn something new every single day for the month of January, and we’re inviting all of you along for the ride. From DIY basics like Sewing 101 to learning to design and laser cut our own stencils, we hope this month of making inspires you to make all year long.

Now, time to… just bead it :)

Tools + Materials:
– Sculpey clay in various colors

– gold chain

– gold jump rings

– gold clasp

– needle nose pliers

– wooden dowel or lollipop stick (for piercing the beads)

Instructions:

1. Create spherical beads by rolling 1/2 inch square pieces of clay in your hand. Change up the size based on personal preference.

2. Use a wooden dowel or lollipop stick to pierce holes in your beads. Remember to make the hole slightly bigger than the necklace chain — the Sculpey will shrink in the oven.

3. Bake your beads in the oven for 15 minutes at 275 degrees F.

4. While beads are cooling, add a clasp to one end of your chain.

5. String beads onto your chain.

6. Attach a clasp to the other end. We included a few extra jump rings to make the necklace adjustable.

7. Done!

We choose three warm colors and one cool one for our color blocked look.

Create spherical beads by rolling 1/2 inch square pieces of clay in your hand. Change up the size based on personal preference.

Use a wooden dowel or lollipop stick to pierce holes in your beads. Remember to make the hole slightly bigger than the necklace chain — the Sculpey will shrink in the oven.

Bake your beads in the oven for 15 minutes at 275 degrees F. Depending on your oven and the size of your beads, they may need a little more time. Be sure to check that they are no longer malleable before taking them out for good.

Let beads cool. While beads are cooling, add a clasp to one end of your chain, then string on those beads!

Looking pretty good, don’t you think?

Attach a few jump rings to the other end of your chain to make the necklace adjustable. Done!

How will you personalize this project to suit your own sense of style? Share photos of your creations to Instagram, Facebook, Tumblr or Twitter using the hashtag #31DaysofDIY. We’ll feature our favorite projects and makers throughout the month of January here on Brit.co.

We’ve already done rope, and now we’re on to another rustic material we love: wood! It’s as basic of a material as clay and is constantly reinvented by DIYers, crafters, artists, hackers, and carpenters. To get inspired to create our own batch of cool wooden objects, we turned to our favorite fellow makers to see what projects they’ve come up with. Scroll down for our top DIY wood project picks.

DIY Wooden Picture Holders

Personalize your desk space and display your best shots with a DIY picture holder that calls for nothing more than a little wood, spray paint, and some inspiration. Add color as needed. (via Passion Shake)

DIY Anthropologie Wall Organizer Hack

We love Anthro *almost* as much as we love a good hack, and this sweet wall DIY falls nothing short of fabulously organized. (via Fish & Bull)

DIY Painted Birch Slice Coasters

Just in time for summer dinners with all the rosé, these pastel birch coasters make a cute (and useful) addition to rest your bev on. (via Dans Le Lakehouse)

Wooden Bungee Organizers

These organizers are made using hobby board and bungee. They’re great for organizing sunglasses, cords, and scarves, especially in small apartments and homes. (via Brit + Co)

Painted Wooden Spoons

You’ve likely seen this one kicking around Pinterest, but it’s so bright and colorful we just had to include it. (via Little Bit Funky)

Antler Jewelry Board

If you go for a wander in just about any area that has tons of deer, you will definitely find shed antlers. Turn them into a caddy for all of your necklaces. (via Rebecca’s DIY)

Wooden Orbit Mirror

On the left, an $1,800 mirror from Anthropologie. On the right? Our $20 hack! (via Brit + Co)

Mops, Brooms, Gardening Tools

Who says chores have to lack style and color? Add a bit of spunk to your household essentials with paint, glitter, and shellac to seal the deal. (via Brit + Co)

Pallet Dining Set

Definitely on the more involved side of our DIY spectrum, this dining set looks beautiful on a porch or terrace. (via Brit + Co)

Nail String Art

A few pieces of wood, nails, and string are all you need to create this simple piece of art. Use words, shapes, or states for designs. (via Brit + Co)

Western Wood Panel Shirt

Add a little flair to your favorite button downs by attaching painted wooden panels. Think “neon goes west.” (via Brit + Co)

The Ultimate DIY Accessory Organizer

If all your jewelry won’t fit on this huge organizer, you might have a hoarding problem… we’re guilty too. ;) (via Brit + Co)

Driftwood Drawer Pull Necklace Holder

Another spot for organizing accessories? Don’t mind if we do! (via Visibly Moved)

Pallet-Top Desk

You might need to hit the flea market to make this one happen. Add a pallet topper to an old vintage desk, and you’ve got a stylish new setup. (via Thistlewood Farms)

Wooden Photos

Transferring photos to wood is an easy way to get that rustic vibe without sacrificing the bold hues you love. (via Apartment Therapy)

Wood Grain Tins

It’s not actually made from wood, but we love this kitschy, woodgrain-look way of dressing up tins and containers. (via Kirtsy)

Handmade Wooden Bangles

For a seriously rustic and bohemian look, use a wood-burning tool to create custom designs. (via Alisa Burke)

Paint-Dipped Candle Holders

Such a gorgeous and minimal centerpiece for a table, mantel, or non-working fireplace. (via Anne Sammenmaerchen)

Pallet Headboard

Create your own unique slumber decor from repurposed pallets. (via This Old House)

Chalkboard Cheese Tray

Do you want cheese with that? Um, obviously! (via Brit + Co)

Wood Bunting

We love this take on bunting — it would make for an upgraded gift tag or table decor. (via Hank + Hunt)

Rustic Pencil Holder

Armed with a few trusty drill bits, it would be easy to customize this for any pencils, writing tools, or markers you have. (via Strawberry Chic)

Little Wooden Houses

Little houses on the hillside, little houses made of ticky-tacky…” (via Minted)

Wood Plank Wine Rack

It doesn’t get more minimal, simple, and functional than this. (via Camille Styles)

Painted Wooden Bangles

You can usually find plain wooden bangles at a craft store. This tutorial shows you how to jazz ’em up! (via Kollabora)

DIY Candle Centerpiece

Turn an off-cut into something practical and oh-so-pretty! All you need is a big enough drill bit and some paint. (via Damask Love)

DIY Wood Frame Holder

Invite Mother Nature to your desktop with these tiny wood frames. (via The Things She Makes)

Color-Blocked Two-Tier Coffee Table

Bring a zing of color-blocked mid-century-modern goodness to your home with this totally doable project. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

Wood-Striped Utensil Holder

Simplicity and natural tones at their best. Once you master the process, you’ll want to make some matching pieces. (via A Beautiful Mess)

DIY Sofa Arm Table

This is the DIY you didn’t know you needed. No more mopping up a drink after your cat spills it when jumping onto the couch. (via Love & Renovations)

DIY Bead Chandelier

Beaded boho goodness. Start looking for a good price on wooden beads, because you’re gonna need ’em in bulk! (via The House That Lars Built)

DIY Wooden Hoop Earrings

Rummage around — you may already have everything you need to create these stunnas. (via The Merry Thought)

DIY Wood Jewelry Holder

Simple, compelling, and handy. You could also use it as a key holder by the front door. (via Fun 365)

DIY Painted Wood Placemats

The opportunity for customization is what gives this project its cool factor. The placemats would make a wicked birthday gift too. (via A Bubbly Life)

What cool wood projects have you been making? Tag us on Instagram!

This post has been updated.

Emily in Paris season 4 was the buzziest season yet, and for good reason. Emily's in Rome, Camille was never pregnant, and Gabriel's hair went from très hot to tragique. In addition to the viral response to Gabriel's new hair, season 4 left me pretty sad because after four years of waiting for Emily and Gabriel to get together, they almost immediately break up — and actor Lucas Bravo is just as confused as we are.

Carole Bethuel/Netflix

“The ‘sexy chef’ was very much part of me in Season 1 and we grew apart season after season because of the choices he makes and because of the direction they make him take,” Lucas Bravo told IndieWire while promoting Mélanie Laurent’s Freedom. “As they made him kind of unaware of his surroundings, of the dynamic, always victimizing and always being completely lost in translation and oblivious to anything that is happening around him and being manipulated by everyone, it kind of became not fun for me to shoot or to see a character I love so much and brought me so much, being slowly turned into guacamole. I really grew apart from him.”

Honestly it makes me really sad that a character we all love so much is becoming unrecognizable. But at the same time, it makes me feel a little bit better, because we're not the only ones who feel like Gabriel has changed. And while Lucas has done what he can to bring those early-series aspects of Gabriel back, he says "there is only so much I can do in the limits of a script.”

Netflix

“I tried for seasons to bring nuances but we don’t have much liberty on set," he continues. “It makes me question if I want to be part of Season 5…because my contract ends at Season 4. I really want to see if Gabriel gets back to his fun, cheeky, playful, alive self. Because three seasons playing melancholic, sad, depressed, and lost is not fun anymore. It’s a comedy, everybody is having fun around me, everybody is jumping around, and I’m just slowly sinking into god knows what.”

Say what now?! If Lucas Bravo leaves Emily in Paris, I truly don't know what I'd do. Gabriel is my favorite character on the show! (Or at least, early Gabriel was.) Seeing him move from 30, flirty, and thriving to someone who's consistently in the middle of an existential crisis doesn't make sense within the world of the show. And even though Lucas thinks the show has a "lack of risk," he still loves everyone involved.

“I love the show. It started everything for me. I love the show and the people in it," he says. "With saying that, I feel like I am not being nice or grateful, but when you love something you want it to be…you want the best version of it. I’m not going to lie, I’ve been frustrated with the direction by character is taking. But we’ll see where it goes. The show is not over.”

Just like the show's iconic costumes are all about expression and fun, here's hoping Emily in Paris is able to bring some life back into our favorite chef. Because if not, it sounds like we could be nearing the end of the show's most popular would-they-won't-they relationship. Fix this Netflix, I beg you!

What do you think of Lucas Bravo's dilemma? Do you miss season 1 Gabriel? Let us know in the comments and check out the latest Emily in Paris season 5 news.

It's no secret that statement jewelry is back in a big way this year, especially *all* the acrylic resin earrings. So it's pretty obvi that we would try this trend out in-house and make our own colorful ear candy. Ahead you'll find three unique twists on this modern (and throwback) style staple.

You'll need:

Confetti Earrings Instructions

1. Place a small amount of Mod Podge where you want the confetti to go and then gently place confetti on top.

2. Allow pieces to dry for 10 minutes and then set with more Mod Podge directly on top of confetti.

3. Use pliers to add the jump rings, and then connect to earring hooks.

4. Slide on your earrings, and head out to that party in style.

Fruit Earrings Instructions:

1. Trace the shape of the acrylic piece on the back side of the vinyl. Cut out the vinyl with an X-Acto knife and then place on the back of acrylic.

2. Trim away any excess vinyl so the two pieces are completely flush.

3. Use a paintbrush to apply a small amount of Mod Podge where you want to place the fruit. Carefully add the pieces.

4. Allow fruit to dry for 10 minutes and then set with more Mod Podge by painting on top of fruit. Use another vinyl shape for the bottom section of the earring, and follow the same steps to apply fruit.

5. Use a small drill bit and drill a hole into the lower part of the top earring.

6. Connect the jump rings and earring hooks using pliers.

7. Now it's time to show seriously juicy statement earrings!

Just Vinyl Earrings Instructions

1. Drill a hole in the bottom of the vinyl piece.

2. Carefully trace the shape of the earring on the vinyl and cut out. Place it on the earring, trimming away the excess. Repeat on the bottom piece of earring.

3. Connect the jump rings, chain, and earring hooks.

4. Pair these '90s beauties with all your fave throwback items for a seriously retro lewk.

Have you ever made DIY earrings before? Be sure to follow us Pinterest for more projects and how-tos!

(Photos via Brittany Griffin / Brit + Co)

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie created reality TV gold when The Simple Life debuted in 2003. Their antics were outlandish, but we couldn't help repeating their iconic phrases like "That's hot" or "Sanasa" during random moments in our own lives.

It's no secret the two didn't really act that way, but their 'characters' left a huge mark on a generation of millennials. "I knew what I was doing but the whole world didn’t, so it was kind of frustrating to me to be perceived in that way because it’s not who I am at all," Paris told People.

Even though she may have felt judged, it seems that Paris Hilton realizes how many people actually loved The Simple Life because she and Nicole Richie are teaming up to film a reunion special that'll debut on Peacock as we speak! Here's everything we know so far!

When did speculations about 'The Simple Life' reboot begin?

NBCUniversal Media

Peacock first shared a video clip on Instagram that hinted something special involving Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie is coming in May. A nostalgic TV set with a black and white screen can be seen while our favorite duo's voices can be hearing saying, "Sanasa, Sanasa."

Peacock captioned the post, "New Era. Same Besties. Coming soon to Peacock," and fans could barely contain their excitement. Even celebs like Naomi Campbell and Katy Perry commented on these hot vibes.

Bravo

Then Paris Hilton took to her own Instagram to share more about what fans could expect. She said, "As some of you may know, we are doing a reunion special to celebrate 20 years of our show The Simple Life and it's been so much fun."

Actress Selma Blair shared how much she's looking forward to this by commenting that she's "living for this."

So are we!

What was 'The Simple Life' about?

The Simple Life/20th Century Fox

The Simple Life showed Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie as they basically traded their wealthy lifestyles for 'everyday' living. Cameras followed them from fast food jobs to dealing with getting out of sticky situations they'd supposedly never experienced. Needless to say, it was hilarious, iconic, and instant reality TV gold.

How long was 'The Simple Life' on air?

Peter Kramer/Getty Images

The Simple Life was on air from 2003 to 2007 with five successful seasons. It seemed like it wasn't going to be hit at first, but it defied expectations. By how much you ask?

According to reporting from The Cut, somewhere around 13 million viewers tuned in to watch Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie's oddball take on daily life. That's a pretty huge deal if you ask us!

When will 'Paris & Nicole: The Encore' debut?

Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

Paris & Nicole: The Encore will premiere on Peacock December 12! The two were previously seen at a Sonic drive-thru yesterday so it can be assumed filming is underway (via People)!

Sporting partial Sonic uniforms, Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie added accent pieces that match their signature flairs. Paris wore a pair of reflective sunglasses, silver sequin heels, and added a pink flip phone to front of her blue apron. Nicole wore gold hoops and a pair of slingback pumps alongside her hotdog mascot costume. That's hot (dog).

How does Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie feel about reuniting for a reunion special?

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Paris Hilton has expressed how much she loves to be sharing the screen with Nicole Richie again. "I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock. Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her," (via E! News).

Nicole also posted a few throwback moments from The Simple Life on her Instagram, but the most notable one is the video mashup of them singing "Sanasa, Sanasa" over and over. "20 years ago, not only did we become television stars… we became song writers. Happy Anniversary Sill @parishilton#TheSimpleLife#sannnasaaaaa" she wrote in the caption.

What have Paris and Nicole said about their reunion special?

Peacock

Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie sat down with W Magazine to let the world know the Paris & Nicole: The Encore show is on its way! Not only that, but fans can expect to see an Opera version of the show they fell in love with two decades ago. Paris said, "The idea of the opera was unexpected" while Nicole chimed in with, "What people need, even though they don't know it yet, is for 'Sanasa' to be an opera.'"

The two besties came up with the idea via a series of texts that started off as ideas between them. Nicole said everything "came up organically" for the two and we can only imagine the memories this brought up for them. OG influencer Paris even talked about how The Simple Life was an "important show in pop culture history" and we couldn't agree more!

Nicole truly wants people to enjoy themselves while watching Paris & Nicole: The Encore and "find the same joy" she had while filming it. According to Paris, she feels what they have is "magic" because "there's just so much history behind it."

It's not every day that you can get to have fun with your best friend while coming up with long-lasting memories that contribute to pop culture, but Paris and Nicole have always danced to the beat of their own drums. Now we'll get to see them in action again!

Watch The Trailer For 'Paris & Nicole: The Encore'

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

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This post has been updated.

Friendsgiving season is coming folks! And if you have one on the books, but have no idea what to cook, we have you covered. From deliciously cheesy veggies to a healthy take on everyone's favorite spuds, we're rounding-up easy recipes to make that won't weigh heavy on your pocketbook. Take a look through to see the yummy ensembles you should be whipping up!

Brit + Co

Drop Biscuits

Because everyone needs a carb to soup all those juicy drippings on your plate. This 'The Final Table' winning recipe does the job.

Brit + Co

Smashed Brussel Sprouts

Not crazy about veggies? These greens will change your mind. Topped with cheese, chives, and a nice crisp topping, they're extra yummy (and keto-friendly!)

Brit + Co

Cacio e Pepe Chickpeas

Sure this one is a bit non-traditional, but your vegetarian friends will love it. Plus they make the perfect topping to nearly any dish (who needs croutons when you have these anyways?!).

Brit + Co

Roasted Broccoli

Puts some greens on your plate with this holy-grail recipe. Trust us: It's sooo easy!

Brit + Co

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Polenta

Dust off the ole' Instant Pot will this delectable fall polenta. Filled with butternut squash and lots of parmesan you (and your besties!) will quickly fall in *love*.

Brit + Co

Roasted Sweet Potato

Just when you thought you knew how to roast sweet potatoes, this recipe came along. And boy are we taking notes!

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

Be the friend that brings the booze. This autumn-themed mulled wine drink will warm everyone's spirits.

Brit + Co

Fall Quinoa Salad

If you're designated salad duty, take a twist on it by packing it full-on quinia, pomegranate, and a tangy dressing. Yum!

Brit + Co

Cheesy Pasta Bake

When the temperatures drop, your friends will be extra thankful for this soul-warming, cheesy pasta.

Brit + Co

Spinach + Mushroom Gnocchi Casserole

No time? No worries! This freezer-friendly pasta bake complete with pillowy gnocchi, creamy mushrooms and spinach is super easy to create ahead of time, without taking away from any day-of deliciousness.

Brit + Co

Cheddar, Jalapeno, and Chive Biscuits

Upgrade your biscuits with "addicting" flavors of cheddar, chives, and jalapeños. Pro tip: Double the batch to ensure you have more than one for everyone!

Brit + Co

Keto Cheese Ball

Your hostess will thank you extra for showing up with an app to tide guests over until the main meal is served. Packed with yummy baked potato fixings, it's got an extra "kick" to make it comparable to store bought options. Plus it's keto-friendly... you can't go wrong with that!

Brit + Co

Cheesy Keto Asparagus

Keep the keto ideas coming, am I right?! Make this popular Pinterest vegetable dish loaded with garlic and extra cheese. Yes please!

Brit + Co

Yogurt Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Pack a 'lil extra protein into your mashed spuds (with the bonus of making them extra creamy!). Who knew yogurt would soon become your go-to secret ingredient?

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Spice Toffee

And let's not forget about the sweets! Make a batch of this pumpkin spice-flavored treat as a great take-home option for overstuffed guests! (Just be sure to save some extra for yourself!)

Follow us on Pinterest for more tasty Thanksgiving recipes!

This post has been updated.