12 October 2009

Skeleton earrings DIY

So these came about when I was after some skeleton earrings but couldn't find any.  I wanted ones where the legs and arms moved independently, I didn't want one solid thing just hanging there, like a stiff ( yes.. yes!) it had to have movement and look a little animated...I guess these would come in handy for Halloween as well...if you must...
(click to embiggen)
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These are the 26 pieces you will need, 22 if you just stick the feet onto the lower legs like I did immediatley after this picture was taken. (I used black sculpey because I didn't have white, spoiler alert: I painted it white!..in hindsight black looks a bit neater but Im a traditionalist not a goth)
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Shape all the bits to resemble bones, pelvises, ribcages and skulls... make the rib and skull markings on both sides because the earrings will turn and sway so both sides will be visible.
Important: don't forget to make the holes BEFORE you bake it
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(looks a bit like Ötzi the Iceman here)
Attach the ball chain firmly into the skull, making sure the clay envelops the chain so it won't fall out after it's baked. 1, Make a groove in the ribcage put the chain in. 2. Put a little clay over it. 3.Do the same with the pelvis. 4. Cover the chain and cut off remaining bits with pliers. 5. Add the earring hook thingy to the skull (also important).
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Make holes in your bones, or the clay ones...totally your call
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I skewered my bones just to ensure the holes didn't close up with man-handling and such.
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grill 'em!

(remembering that these bones are quite thin and will only require like 10-15 minutes in the oven)
Then paint them if you were lazy like me and didnt use white sculpey.
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Seal with mod-podge, sealer or pva glue, if they're painted, if not painted, no need really, unless you like them shiny.
Wait till they're completely dry.

Link up all the limbs with the 'o' rings. Not too tight so they still dangly.
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ta daa!
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trick or treeeeeaat!

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