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I’ve got a little box of broken or forgotten jewelry that honestly feels too sentimental to just throw out. Instead of letting these bits and pieces sit around, I like to figure out ways to give them new life with some easy craft projects.
Upcycling old jewelry is such a satisfying way to make something fresh and fun—no fancy tools or special skills needed. What I love most about these crafts is how simple it is to turn old jewelry into something new that actually fits your style.
Here are 15 ideas you can try out. Each one is a chance to reuse materials in a creative way and keep a little less junk out of the trash.
1. Vintage floral jewelry wall art
I grab old brooches and earrings, then play around with floral patterns on a blank canvas. After arranging them, I glue everything down and layer pieces for some extra depth. Suddenly, those forgotten bits become wall art.
2. Broken brooch pendant necklace
When I’ve got a broken brooch, I just pop off the pin in the back and add a jump ring or small loop. Now it’s a pendant, easy as that. I love wearing these as necklaces.
3. Mosaic picture frame with jewelry beads
I collect beads from old jewelry and use them to make mosaic patterns on picture frames. I glue beads of all shapes and colors onto the frame, creating a design that’s totally unique. It’s a fun way to jazz up a plain frame.
4. Bejeweled bookmarks using chains
I turn old jewelry chains into bookmarks by adding a few broken charms or beads to a satin ribbon. Quick, cute, and honestly a great gift for a book lover.
5. Earring stud cluster rings
I grab a handful of broken earring studs and glue them in a little cluster on a plain ring base.
Now I’ve got a ring that shows off all those old earring designs in a new way. No fancy tools needed.
6. Layered jewelry keychains
I mix and match broken chains, charms, and beads to make layered keychains. Each one ends up a little different, with a bit of texture and style. They’re easy to customize and don’t take much time at all.
7. Rhinestone decorated phone cases
I use broken jewelry rhinestones to bling out my phone case. It’s simple—just arrange rhinestones in whatever pattern you like and glue them down. Strong glue is key so they don’t fall off.
8. Upcycled jewelry hairpins
I pick out small, lightweight jewelry pieces and glue them onto hairpins.
It’s a super quick way to make unique accessories that dress up plain hairpieces. I try to stick to pieces that won’t weigh my hair down.
9. Bracelet charm repurposing
I take broken bracelet charms and add them to earrings, necklaces, or keychains. It’s a no-fuss way to give old charms a fresh start.
10. Jewelry encrusted candle holders
I glue beads, chains, or charms from broken jewelry onto candle holders. It adds a cool shine and texture, whether the holder’s metal, glass, or wood. The end result feels personal and fits any room.
11. Pendant chandelier decorations
I turn broken pendants into chandelier decorations by attaching them to a frame with wire or glue. When the light hits, the pendants catch it and add a bit of sparkle.
12. Brooch embellished tote bags
I pin or glue old brooches to plain tote bags. It’s such a fast way to make a bag feel special.
Sewing or using strong glue keeps the brooch secure. That’s all there is to it.
13. Pearl and bead napkin rings
I take broken pearls and beads and glue them onto a plain ring base. Suddenly, I’ve got napkin rings that make my table setting look a little fancier.
14. Jewelry piece zipper pulls
I use small charms and beads from broken jewelry to make zipper pulls. They add a personal touch to bags or jackets.
A jump ring makes it easy to attach the jewelry to the zipper. It’s a tiny upgrade, but it makes a difference.
15. Mixed jewelry magnets
I grab small broken jewelry bits and just glue them onto flat magnets. Suddenly, old beads, charms, and stones become quirky fridge magnets in no time. It’s a fun way to rescue those tiny pieces that would otherwise get tossed.
