This is a beautifully simple pendant created from vintage shirt buttons and wire. If you’re like me, you have an old jar (or multiple jars!) of buttons that you were lucky enough to find at a tag sale or inherit from a family member….but finding a use for them seems to escape even the best of your crafty ideas.
Well, search no more, my button keeper. This button pendant is super easy to construct and will quickly use up more than a few buttons in your stash. I promise that when you wear it, friends, family, and totally random strangers will comment on it and want one. THIS is your epiphany project to start your own button and wire jewelry business. But don’t quit your day job….just yet. Let’s get one made.
A couple notes:
- The buttons you use for the pendant do not have to match, but you will want to make sure the holes of the buttons line up close enough to thread them on the wire when they are stacked.
- I like to use soft (aluminum) wire so it can be sculpted into awesome curvy shapes, AND because I like to hammer it for texture. Clearly, this is up to you – maybe you prefer to leave it plain – sans hammer. Just make sure the wire can fit through the holes of your buttons.
Let’s Do This!
Cut a length of wire, bend (softly) in half. The half-way point will be the top “loop” of the pendant, so you want it to be more of a curve than a hard bend. I start with 12″ and cut it down as needed.
Thread the buttons on, starting to create the design you’d like in the wire.
After you have the buttons threaded on, bend the wire (needle-nose pliers works the best) to create the pendant design.
Once you have the final design, you can hammer the wire to texturize and flatten it, or just leave it as is. IF you decide to hammer it, I suggest covering the wire with a soft cloth, and hammering softly at first. You never know how your wire will react, and I’ve gotten carried away and BROKE the wire from over-hammering/bending. That’s totally a bummer. Don’t do that. It’s a super sad moment in an otherwise exciting craft day. ALSO – don’t get too close to the buttons as you hammer. I love to use real shell buttons, but they will BREAK if you accidentally tap them with the hammer.
That’s it! You’re done. I like to add a little wire “hook” at the top so the pendant lays flat with a chain. A jump ring would totally work, but I like the primitive look of wrapping one myself (as pictured).
If you found this Vintage Button Pendant Tutorial helpful, please PIN it so you have it for future reference. Also, I’d love to hear your comments and feedback below. Thanks so much for stopping by my Inspired Mess. Be sure to check out my other vintage button jewelry and bookmark projects to really make a dent in your STASH!
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