37 Colorful Polymer Clay Earring Designs + Easy Tutorial for Beginners
37 Colorful Polymer Clay Earring Designs + Easy Tutorial for Beginners
Polymer clay jewelry has taken the DIY and Etsy world by storm, offering endless possibilities for creating unique and colorful earrings. If you've been following for a while, you know I absolutely love polymer clay!
It's a great medium for making beautiful, customized earrings right at home. In this post, I’ll guide you through the essentials of making polymer clay earrings, why I recommend Sculpey polymer clay, and share 37 fun and colorful polymer clay earring designs to inspire your next creative project.
Which Polymer Clay is the Best?
When it comes to polymer clay jewelry, Sculpey polymer clay is my top pick. It's easy to work with, remains flexible until baked, and offers consistent results. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, making it easy to find the perfect base color for your earring designs. Unlike some other brands, Sculpey doesn't become too brittle after baking, which is a common issue with brittle brands of clay.
What You'll Need to Make Polymer Clay Earrings
Before diving into the fun of creating polymer clay earrings, it's essential to gather the right tools and materials. Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need from your local craft store:
Polymer Clay: I recommend Sculpey III for its ease of use and reliable results.
Rolling Pin: To flatten the clay to your desired thickness.
Clay Cutters: For shaping the clay into various earring shapes.
Tissue Blade: For precise cuts and trimming.
Earring Posts or Jump Rings: Choose surgical steel or hypoallergenic posts for sensitive ears.
Baking Sheet: Line with a piece of paper to prevent sticking during baking.
Pasta Machine (optional): For conditioning and evenly flattening the clay.
Baby Wipes: To keep your tools and work area clean.
How to Make Polymer Clay Earrings
Polymer clay jewelry has taken the DIY and Etsy world by storm, offering endless possibilities for creating unique and colorful earrings. If you've been following for a while, you know I absolutely love polymer clay!
It's a great medium for making beautiful, customized earrings right at home. In this post, I’ll guide you through the essentials of making polymer clay earrings, why I recommend Sculpey polymer clay, and share 37 fun and colorful polymer clay earring designs to inspire your next creative project.
What is Polymer Clay?
Polymer clay is a type of synthetic modeling clay that remains soft until baked in a home oven. It’s incredibly versatile, making it a great way to create everything from simple geometric shapes to gs
Making your own polymer clay earrings is a fun and rewarding process. Here’s a quick polymer clay earring tutorial to follow:
Prepare Your Work Surface: Use a clean, flat surface like ceramic tiles or a piece of glass as your work area. Make sure you have all your tools ready, including a rolling pin, clay cutter, and tissue blade.
Condition the Clay: Before you start, you need to condition the clay by kneading it until it’s soft and pliable. You can also run it through a pasta machine to achieve a smooth, even texture.
Roll Out the Clay: Use a rolling pin to flatten the clay to your desired thickness. For best results, roll it between two sheets of piece of paper or baby wipes to prevent sticking. This is where you can make a really fun and unique pattern or design for your DIY clay earrings.
Cut Out the Shapes: Use cookie cutters or freehand with a clay cutter to create your desired earring shapes. Use a simple geometric shape or get creative with a variety of styles. You can also use silk screens to add patterns or textures. Don't forget to put a hole through the clay using a cocktail stick or small clay tool if you're making dangly earrings instead of stud earrings.
Bake the Earrings: Place your earrings on a baking sheet lined with a piece of paper and bake them according to the instructions on the clay package. Usually, this involves baking in the oven or toaster oven at 275°F for 15-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the clay. Always follow the instructions on your specific brand of clay.
Finish the Earrings: After baking, let the earrings cool in a dry place. If needed, sand the rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper. Attach earring posts using strong glue, and your earrings are ready to wear!
After you make your own jewelry for the first time, you'll be hooked on designing handmade items!
37 Fun and Colorful Polymer Clay Earring Designs
There are tons of really unique polymer clay earrings for sale online through shops like Made by Maeberry. Most of these handmade items are made in small batches, which makes them truly one-of-a-kind! You can purchase these earrings or use them as inspiration to create your own pair of earrings. I personally love to find polymer clay earring designs on Pinterest or Etsy. I've curated the list below to include some of my favorites! A little tip: Add a twist to each of these to make them your own designs!
1. Gold Leaf Polymer Clay Earrings from Treasurie
These elegant gold foil earrings are a great option if you want to add a touch of luxury to your polymer clay collection. The best part is that they’re easy to make, even for beginners.
2. Polymer Clay Slab Earrings from My Vian
Create stunning slab earrings by mixing custom colors and using different techniques like marbling or adding inclusions. These are a great way to experiment with color and texture.
3. Tropical Polymer Clay Earrings from Pineapple Paper Co
Bring a bit of the tropics into your wardrobe with these tropical-themed earrings. The arch shape and vibrant colors make them perfect for summer.
4. Painted Pattern Polymer Clay Earrings from Sarah Maker
If you enjoy painting, you’ll love these painted pattern earrings. Use white clay as your base, then add intricate patterns with acrylic paints.
5. Geometric Polymer Clay Earrings from Design Mom
These geometric earrings are made using simple shapes like circles, squares, and triangles. They’re a great way to create a modern look with minimal effort.
6. Marbled Drop Polymer Clay Earrings from A Pumpkin and a Princess
Achieve a sophisticated look with these marbled drop earrings. The swirling colors add depth and interest, making them a versatile accessory.
7. Easy Polymer Clay Flower Earrings from Make and Tell
These flower earrings are perfect for spring. Use small pieces of clay to create delicate petals, and assemble them into beautiful blooms.
8. Polymer Clay Hoop Earrings from Persia Lou
Hoop earrings are always in style, and these polymer clay hoops are no exception. You can make them in any color to match your wardrobe.
9. Gold Rainbow Polymer Clay Earrings from Isoscella
Add a bit of whimsy to your collection with these gold rainbow earrings. The combination of gold and vibrant colors is sure to stand out.
10. Colorful Statement Polymer Clay Earrings from The Crafted Life
Make a bold statement with these colorful statement earrings. They’re perfect for adding a pop of color to any outfit.
11. Embossed Polymer Clay Earrings from Club Crafted
Use embossing tools or silk screens to create intricate patterns on these embossed earrings. The raised texture adds a unique touch.
12. Scrap Clay Terrazzo Earrings from Ctrl + Curate
Put your scrap clay to good use by creating these terrazzo-inspired earrings. The speckled pattern is both trendy and eco-friendly.
13. Neutral Rainbow Polymer Clay Earrings from Mikyla Creates
These neutral rainbow earrings are perfect for those who prefer a more understated look. The soft colors make them versatile and easy to wear.
14. Drop Hoop Oval Polymer Clay Earrings from Made by Maeberry
Combine the classic hoop design with an oval drop shape for a modern twist on hoop earrings.
15. Polymer Clay Flower Earrings
These flower clay cutters are a beautiful way to incorporate nature into your designs. Use different shades of green and floral hues to make them pop.
16. Abstract Swirl Earrings from And Made
These abstract swirl earrings are a great way to experiment with patterns and colors. The swirled design is eye-catching and unique.
17. Summer Stripes Polymer Clay Earrings from Kansas City Farm Girl
These striped earrings are perfect for summer. Use custom colors to create bright, cheerful stripes that evoke the feeling of a sunny day.
18. Sports Polymer Clay Earrings
Show off your team spirit with these sports-themed clay cutters. Create mini basketballs, soccer balls, or your favorite team's logo.
19. Two Tone Polymer Clay Earrings from Tangerine Lab Shop
These two-tone earrings are a great option if you want to experiment with color blocking. Use contrasting colors for a bold look.
20. Pastel Spring Earrings from Tangerine Lab Shop
These pastel earrings are perfect for spring. The soft, muted colors make them a versatile accessory.
21. Apple Earrings from Tangerine Lab Shop
These adorable apple earrings are a fun way to celebrate the fall season. They’re easy to make and perfect for beginners. Learn how to make polymer clay apples here!
22. Rainbow Knot Earrings from Blur and Bake
Add a bit of texture to your designs with these rainbow knot earrings. The knotted design adds visual interest and makes them stand out.
23. Retro Checkered Polymer Clay Earrings from Hey There Designs
These checkered earrings are perfect for anyone who loves a retro vibe. The bold pattern is sure to catch the eye.
24. Floral Polymer Clay Slab Earrings from Wearably Weird
Create a garden on your ears with these floral slab earrings. The intricate floral design is perfect for spring and summer.
25. Plaid Polymer Clay Slab Earrings from Lulu Cutters
These retro-inspired slab earrings feature bold patterns and vibrant colors, making them a standout accessory.
26. Fruit Studs from Made by Maeberry
These tiny fruit studs are both adorable and easy to make. They’re perfect for adding a playful touch to any outfit.
27. Mini Dangle Heart Polymer Clay Earrings from Made by Maeberry
These mini dangle heart earrings are perfect for Valentine’s Day or any time you want to add a touch of love to your outfit.
28. Banana Pop Art Polymer Clay Earrings from Made by Maeberry
These banana pop art earrings are a fun and quirky addition to your collection. The bright yellow color and playful design make them a standout piece.
29. Black and White Polymer Clay Earrings from Made by Maeberry
These black and white earrings are a classic choice. The monochromatic color scheme makes them versatile and easy to wear with any outfit.
30. Wavy Arch Polymer Clay Earrings from Made by Maeberry
These wavy arch earrings are a modern take on the classic arch shape. The wavy design adds a touch of whimsy.
31. Hibiscus Earrings from More Colors
These hibiscus earrings are a beautiful way to bring a touch of the tropics to your jewelry collection. The floral design is perfect for summer.
32. Colorful Hoop Earrings from Double Scoop
These colorful hoop earrings are a great way to add a pop of color to your wardrobe. You can even try making air dry clay versions for a different texture.
33. Drop Hoop Earrings from Winter Bloom Design
These drop hoop earrings are a perfect project for beginners. The simple design is easy to create and looks stunning in any color.
34. Tie Dye Hoop Earrings from Hello Eana
These tie dye hoop earrings capture the fun and free-spirited vibe of tie dye, now in earring form.
35. Colorful Arch Earrings from Shop Amber and Stone
These colorful arch earrings add a ton of personality to your outfit with their bold colors and unique shape.
36. Turquoise & Fuchsia Earrings from Rich Looks by Karthi
These two-tone earrings combine bright colors for a simple yet striking look.They can be made using small balls of clay.
37. Mismatched Square Earrings from Sunny and Sal
For a statement piece, try these mismatched square earrings with different patterns on each ear.
FAQs about Polymer Clay Earrings
Should You Seal Polymer Clay Earrings?
Sealing polymer clay earrings isn't necessary, but it can be a great way to add durability and shine. If you choose to seal them, use a compatible varnish to avoid any reactions with the clay. Sealing is especially useful if you've used surface treatments like mica powder or acrylic paint.
How Long Do Polymer Clay Earrings Last?
Polymer clay jewelry is known for its durability. When properly baked and cared for, polymer clay earrings can last for years. Keep them in a dry place and avoid dropping them on hard surfaces to prolong their lifespan.
Do You Have to Glaze Polymer Clay Earrings?
Glazing polymer clay earrings is optional. It can add a shiny or matte finish, depending on your preference. However, if you prefer the natural texture of the clay, glazing isn't required.
How Do You Harden Polymer Clay Earrings?
To harden polymer clay earrings, bake them in a home oven or toaster oven at the temperature and time specified on the clay packaging. Proper baking ensures that the earrings are fully cured and durable.
Do You Put Holes in Polymer Clay Earrings Before or After Baking?
It’s best to put holes in polymer clay earrings before baking. Use a cocktail stick or small tool to create the holes, ensuring they are large enough for jump rings or earring hooks.
Do You Paint Polymer Clay Earrings Before or After Baking?
Always bake your polymer clay earrings first before painting. Applying paint after baking ensures better adhesion and a smoother finish. Use acrylic paint for the best results and allow it to dry completely before adding any additional finishes or glazing.
Happy Crafting!
Creating your own polymer clay earrings is not only a creative outlet but also a great way to make unique jewelry that reflects your personal style. With the right tools, some Sculpey III, and a bit of imagination, you can craft earrings that are as fun to make as they are to wear. So grab your rolling pin, condition your clay, and start creating!
