Show Your BFF Some Love With DIY Emoji Necklaces
It goes without saying that our BFFs mean everything to us. Seriously, where would we be without our best lady friends? That’s why we’re totally stoked to celebrate National Women’s Friendship Day in true DIY style. Designated for the third Sunday of September, this girl-powered holiday is the perfect excuse to make BFF jewelry. Then again, we don’t need a reason to spread the bestie love. Thanks to these kitschy emoji necklaces, you can rep your friendship all year long.
Materials:
— yellow oven-bake clay
— parchment paper
— black and red acrylic paint
— chain
— jewelry clasps
— 10-millimeter jump rings
— 6-millimeter jump rings
Tools:
— scissors
— jewelry pliers
— toothpick
— wood rolling pin
Instructions:
1. Flatten a ball of yellow clay with the rolling pin.
2. Poke two holes using the the toothpick.
3. Bake the clay. Halfway through the cooling process, cut the clay in half.
4. Using the toothpick, paint a red heart on each half.
5. Paint a black mouth. Leave to dry.
6. Attach a 10-millimeter jump ring to one half.
7. Add the pendant to a strand of chain.
8. Attach a 6-millimeter jump ring and a clasp to one end of the chain. Attach another 6-millimeter jump ring to the other end.
9. Repeat Steps 6-8 with the second half.
We started out with a 3/4-inch wide ball of clay. Our finished emoji measured 1 1/4 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick. Of course, you can make your smiley guy smaller or bigger. Simply adjust the size of your clay ball accordingly.
When you’re ready to bake your clay, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Pop it in the oven and follow the baking directions on the clay’s packaging. Our clay required 15 minutes per 1/4 inch at 275 degrees Fahrenheit. This may differ from brand to brand, so pay close attention! Once it’s done doing its thing, take it out and let it sit for a minute or two. The clay should be warm (not hot or cool) and slightly pliable (not hard). This is the perfect time to cut the clay without losing its shape.
Because the tiny red hearts are the eyes, they should line up when the pieces are joined together. The mouth should be continuous from one half to the other. If you need a little guidance, sketch it out with a pencil before painting.
And just like that, you have an adorable necklace set for you and your BFF.
Readers, what emojis do you and your bestie use the most? Let us know below!
(Last photo: Anson Cheung)