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November

Directions for Monogrammed Earrings Project / November 2000

Tnis project uses Petite 1.

Step 1. Print the instructions.

These are .pdf files, and require Adobe Acrobat Reader software in order to view and print.
To insure printing in exact size, be sure that FIT TO PAGE (see Properties under the Print Menu) is not selected.

Step 2. Sew out letters of your choice.

We chose letters from our Petite Monogram Set 1 - script style. To make a pair of earrings utilizing the same letter for both earrings, sew two copies.

(An interesting variation would be to sew out one first initial and one last initial)

In place of fabric, we used three layers of lightweight cut-away stabilizer. Three layers was sufficient to hold the design, but did not rip on the needle penetrations. This material has the advantage of being absorbent to glue coating, while providing a crisp trimmed edge.

Step 3. Draw a circle around the embroidered letter

In order to give the design a more finished look, we drew a circle around the letter with an Ultra Fine Point "Sharpie" Permanent Marker.

In order to draw an accurate circle, find something with a circular cut-out, and center it over the embroidered letter. We found that the hole in the center of a CD provided the perfect size, and could be easily positioned correctly.

Step 4. Roughly trim each design.

Trim each design approximately 1/4" (7mm) outside the drawn circle.

Step 5. Stiffen the design

Thin out a small quantity of white glue with 10% water, just enough to make the glue a bit more liquid.

Thoroughly coat both sides of the design with the glue.

Rest each coated design on the top of a pushpin which has been pushed into a suitable soft surface. Allow to dry (approximately 20-30 minutes)

Step 6. Carefully trim each design

With sharp scissors, carefully trim each design close to the edge of the drawn circle. Allow a small border outside the circle.

Step 7. Apply another layer of glue.

Apply a second coat of glue. This will further stiffen the design, and the additional glue will give the stabilizer a slightly translucent quality along with a slight sheen.

Step 8. Finish edges

Using fine sandpaper (220 grit), lightly sand the edge of the circle.

Holding the cut circle between your thumb and forefinger, turn the circle while dragging the edge across the sandpaper. By slowly rotating the circle, you will be able to shape a very even and smooth circle.

Step 9. Attach monogrammed circle to earring post.

Prepare a small quantity of 5 Minute Epoxy (a two part epoxy adhesive. Part A and B must be mixed in equal quantities). Put a small bead of prepared epoxy on the the flat earring pad, and carefully position in the center of the back surface of the monogrammed circle.

Allow to set thoroughly.

Congratulations! Your project is complete.

Sources for Materials

5 Minute Epoxy:

Widely available at hardware or building supply stores.

Earring Posts and Backs:

Many craft stores sell jewelry findings, and have stock earring parts available for purchase individually or in pairs.

Our earrings use surgical steel flatpad earposts (silver color) with an 8mm diameter pad. We also used comfort clutches - a barrel clutch with a plastic back.

These parts can be ordered online, but you must buy a minimum of a dozen of each piece.

http://www.eloxite.net

This site has a complete online catalogue and secure online ordering.
Go to "Browse Products"
Then go to "Earwear"
Then go to "Pierced Ear Parts"
The correct parts are:
1. Flat pad earposts - 8mm diameter.
Stock # 29-518
2 . Pierced ear clutches- comfort clutch.
Stock # 29-352

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