https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/steam-punk-earings • Posted by SlashnYaoi
At my work, we have the knock-off version of white out tape. The stuff breaks constantly and there really isn't a way to fix them. After one incident where we had to throw out three at once, I realized that the little gears in them would be perfect for earrings! YOU WILL NEED: 2-4 Gears (I got mine from the guts of white out tape) Sanding block/paper Hot Glue Gun Paint brushes Rub N Buff in your chosen colors Earring hooks/studs Sealant (Optional)
At my work, we have the knock-off version of white out tape. The stuff breaks constantly and there really isn't a way to fix them. After one incident where we had to throw out three at once, I realized that the little gears in them would be perfect for earrings! YOU WILL NEED: 2-4 Gears (I got mine from the guts of white out tape) Sanding block/paper Hot Glue Gun Paint brushes Rub N Buff in your chosen colors Earring hooks/studs Sealant (Optional)
Obtain white out tape dispenser or something similar.
Remove front cover (it should just snap off) and gut it - you only need to two 'gear' parts
Get a paper plate or something to lay them on - this is going to be messy!
Sand them down to remove glossy finish. Shown is a sanding block I purchased from the dollar store, which worked perfect and doesn't leave grit like sand paper.
Glue the sanded down pieces together with a hot glue gun-SUPER GLUE DOESN'T WORK! Remember they're suppose to be earrings - you can get creative with the placement, but I wouldn't get too crazy!
Coloring them: I used 2 small paint brushes and bought a sample pack of 'rube n buff' from amazon - the most expensive part of this project.
Paint using the rub n buff - the stuff sticks to porous surfaces so be careful. It will get all over you hands. Also, the more you 'buff' the more shiny the stuff gets. It does have a matte finish
Wait for it to dry then hot glue the earring top to the gears. Remember that you want the earrings to face out so each arch should face away from each other (see finished project)
Let dry and you're done! You can spray with sealant, I did this later, as I found that without the sealant, the paint does rub off on your skin! It doesn't stain, but you end up looking like you have a bruise, so a finish is a plus!