Beaded Tassel Earrings
These beaded tassel earrings were a pair I saw in a store. I didn't want to pay top dollar, so I decided to make them! Some parts were easy, and other parts were annoying, but I used a little patience to get it done.
Creating these tassel earrings may take a bit of practice, but the result is a stunning pair of handcrafted earrings that are sure to turn heads. Tassel earrings add a touch of bohemian chic to any outfit, and by choosing your favorite colors and beads, you can make them uniquely yours.
Visual learner? Scroll to the bottom for the step-by-step video tutorial.
Materials Needed
Seed Beads – Small and delicate, perfect for adding sparkle to your tassels.
26-Gauge Wire – Ideal for wrapping and securing beads.
16-Gauge Brass Wire – Sturdy enough to form the earring post and structure.
Embroidery Thread – Choose four skeins in your favorite color, or mix and match them for a unique look.
Bead Spinner – Essential for quickly threading seed beads onto the wire.
Tools – Round-nose pliers, flat-nose pliers, cutters, and scissors.
Step 1: Prepare the Brass Triangle Frame
Start by shaping the 16-gauge brass wire into a triangle. Using pliers, straighten the wire, then bend it to create a triangle. The first triangle will serve as a template for the second, ensuring both earrings match in size. Create a small loop at the top by wrapping the wire around the triangle a couple of times. Snip any excess wire and use pliers to smooth down the end, so it doesn't snag.
Step 2: Make the Beaded Wire Strands
Cut a short piece of 26-gauge wire, and use your round-nose pliers to make a tiny loop at one end. This loop keeps the beads in place.
Now, take out your bead spinner and pour in a handful of seed beads. Position the wire slightly curved at the end, then spin the bead spinner in the opposite direction as you skim the wire along the surface of the beads. This technique allows the beads to catch onto the wire quickly. Once you have enough beads to wrap around your tassel twice, create another small loop at the end of the wire to keep them from sliding off.
Step 3: Attach Embroidery Thread to the Triangle Frame
Divide your embroidery thread into two skeins for each earring. Attach two skeins to each brass triangle, securing them tightly at the base. Pull the thread evenly to avoid uneven tassels.
Step 4: Wrap Beaded Wire Around the Tassel
With your embroidery thread securely in place, wrap the beaded wire strands around the tassel base. This step requires patience, as you’ll want the beads to wrap snugly without gaps. Twist the wire as tightly as possible at the back of the tassel, then tuck in any loose ends to keep the design clean.
Pro Tip: Use pliers to gently compress the wrapped wire, ensuring it’s tightly secured and won’t shift.
Step 5: Trim the Tassel
Once the beaded wire is secured, trim the ends of the embroidery thread to the desired length, creating a neat tassel. If you want a layered look, consider trimming some threads shorter than others for added texture.
Step 6: Final Touches and Assembly
Smooth any rough wire edges, then add your earring back and hooks. You may need to sand down the posts slightly if they’re too thick for standard earring backs.
And there you have it! Your DIY tassel earrings are complete and ready to wear!
