So, this one falls squarely into the obvious category, but it’s so fun, simple and cute that I wanted to share it. Lately I’ve been admiring enamel jewelry, but since I don’t own a kiln (yet!) I can’t DIY the real thing. So I decided to fake it using nail polish – even the least crafty lady probably has a drawer full of it.
I used Essie Absolutely Shore (love!) and Sally Hansen Commander in Chic . The round pieces are metal stamping blanks- you can buy them at most craft stores or online.
It’s self explanatory, right? A few notes: try to avoid air bubbles and pop any that develop in the surface with a pin right away. Also, leave the piece to dry for a full 24 hours before attaching it to the chain to ensure the the paint is completely dry or you might end up with with fingerprints visible on the surface. On the bright side, if this happens you can grab some nail polish remover and start over!
Use a jump ring to attach the (nail) enameled pieces to a chain.
I'm Alicia DiRago, founder of 
{ 20 comments… read them below or add one }
Holy cow, I am in LOVE with this!! Endless possibilities! I too love enamel jewelry, and this is so easy and so perfect; great job Alicia!
xoxo
Lia
Whoa! Super easy, I love it!
This right here is genius.
Thanks
Do you need to top coat with a protective seal? How does the polish hold up with wear?
Mine has held up great, it’s really pretty amazing! I suppose a clear polish topcoat would provide even more protection if you plan on wearing it daily.
Awesome idea.
So simple but great effect x
Thanks Lisa! It is super easy.
Thank you for this awesome idea! It worked out great!
AMAZING!!! I love your version 892039 times better than mine!
Found you earlier this week and I made my own version: http://misskoolaid.com/2011/10/05/faux-enamel-pendant-pendentif-en-simili-email/
Thanks for the inspiration!
Sophie
Thanks for sharing – love how you added gemstones!
Simply Fabulous…and fabulously simple. Thank you for the inspiration!
So welcome!
I use the OMG series from China Glaze-they have a holographic finish to them. Really bring out etched & embossed tag designs.
Cool, I’ll have to try that. Thanks!
Have you considered just torch firing enamel? No kiln require. I have a kiln and I still torch fire enamel because you have more control. Something to consider
No, I hadn’t thought of that. What a good idea- I’m going to look into it now! thanks
This is such a neat idea. Do you know how long it lasts, or if chips off?
Mine are still just fine, amazingly! I suppose it may depend on how often you wear it but I’ve been impressed at how durable it is.
Thanks for your comment
Alicia
{ 7 trackbacks }