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Junk Drawer Jewelry

By Rain Blanken, About.com Guide

Use what you already have to make jewelry that always carries a funky look. Once you start making these easy bracelets and earrings, it's hard to stop. Try the following beginner projects to get you started on your own junk drawer jewelry.

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1. Soda Pop Tab Bracelet

Rain Blanken

This soda tab bracelet is a great way to show off your resourcefulness and attitude toward recycling and reusing found objects. It is a great accessory for Earth Day and festivals or occasions that celebrate tab-collecting organizations like the Ronald McDonald House. Once it is finished, this bracelet is truly a durable and colorful accessory.

get the step-by-step photo tutorial.

2. Paper Clip Earrings

Rain Blanken

Paper clips are made up of a sturdy steel wire that is perfect for bending into various jewelry styles. Since they are readily available, paper clips are a convenient medium for working wire jewelry projects.

Get teh step-by-step photo tutorial.

3. Origami Bracelet

Rain Blanken

These paper bracelets take only a few seconds to make. They are great instant accessories for a casual outfit. They also make great little gifts for friends.

Get the step-by-step tutorial.

4. Button Bracelet

Rain Blanken

What a great way to use up extra buttons that seem to find their way into the junk drawer. Even neutral and turtleshell buttons can be used for a sophisticated look.

Create your own with these quick and easy instructions.

5. Toothbrush Bracelet

When your toothbrush is worn, try this easy project to turn it into a funky bracelet. If you don't have an old toothbrush lying around, they cost a few cents at the dollar store. Can't beat that price for a new bracelet with character.

Make your own with these step-by-step instructions.

6. Make Paper Beads

Rain Blanken

I love origami, so gluing paper beads is a great way for me to translate paper craft into my look. Learn how to make your own paper beads with this quick photo tutorial.

See the photo tutorial.

7. Decoupage Eyeball Ring

Rain Blanken

I had an old ring that needed to come out of the bottom of my jewelry box, and with a little bit of decoupage varnish, I was able to give it a face lift. Decoupage is cheap and easy, requiring few supplies.

See the step-by-step instructions.

8. Decapitated Barbie Jewelry Hanger

Rain Blanken

I saw a few doll jewelry organizers in Bath and Body works selling for $30.00, and knew I could make them at home. After all, Barbie would rather rip off her head than let you pay that price. How convenient, because we were going to take it off for her, anyway.

Make this jewelry organizer.