Inspired by the “pop of neon on crystal earring trend” seen at J.Crew, I had a flash of creative courage. “I can make those for $5, I’ll paint them myself” I thought.

I bought a selection of crystal earrings at Forever 21 which cost about $3 a pair and some fun colored acrylic paints.

Then I carefully painted the earrings using a tiny brush.

Here are some after the first coat. I found that it took about 5 hours for the acrylic to dry enough for a second coat. If you were to replicate this project I would not recommend using acrylic paints, they were messy and clunky on the “stones.” I would next try nail polish or glass paint which I think will adhere better and give you that luminous quality you want from these earrings.

The finished products in the sun light. I have been wearing my pair (the rest were gifted) and getting lots of compliments. I can’t wait to try this project again with better paints and more artistic restraint (I liked my first coat versions better, always so hard to know when to stop!)

Lulu Frost for J.Crew

This is my inspiration for the next batch.

 xo,

Lydia