A Simply Magnetizing Idea

A brooch, often referred to as a pin, brings interest to a basic suit, dress, or even a muff.  In the 1940's, the brooch was meant to be worn at the center-front of the neckline.  Lapel ornaments were in the form of a pin, novelty clip, or pendant-type.

You can easily make your own unique brooch for a favorite fashion doll.  Old earrings, broken necklaces, and unusual buttons can be recycled for a distinctive look.  Antique malls, thrift stores, flea markets, and even the clearance jewelry section of your local department store can often yield interesting pieces.  Of course, my motto is to first shop your own jewelry box as I did for the following examples.

Madra Lord

A black onyx and "diamond" earring gives just the right amount of elegance to Miss Lord's garnet suit.

Gene Marshall

Even the modern earring lends itself perfectly to Miss Marshall's chic 1950's suit ensemble.

Components from a broken necklace add a touch of surrealism to a wool boucle muff.

Here's what you will need:

• Magnets, 1/4" or smaller
• E6000 adhesive
• Wire cutters
• Emery board
• Safety glasses
• Latex gloves

A Word of Caution:  

Be sure to carefully read any warnings on your package of magnets and adhesive before you purchase.

To convert an earring to a brooch: 

1. Wearing safety glasses, remove the post with your wire cutters.  Smooth any sharpness with the fine side of an emery board. 
2. To prepare the surface for the adhesive, lightly roughen the back of the earring with the emery board.  Wipe the surface clean before applying the glue. 
3. Apply adhesive and attach a magnet.  Let dry according to package directions.  For better control, squeeze a small amount of glue onto a paper plate or a piece of foil.  Use the tip of a pin or toothpick to apply the glue to the back of the earring. 

Madra Lord

A colorful, jeweled button becomes the perfect accent for a luscious fur drape.

Credits:
Spotted in Manhattan Madra Lord and J'Adore Gene Marshall are from Integrity.
Like A Fox Madra Lord is from Ashton Drake.