Jewelry is one of the easiest ways to make a statement and show off your personality. But instead of purchasing something new, why not create a custom chain necklace using items you already own?

Quote of the day: “You do not need a vision, you need the practice of envisioning.” James Clear

I was inspired to try this idea after seeing another influencer do the same on Pinterest, and now I’ve used the trick many times. Of course, I have loads of ideas and even came up with a video if that’s more helpful.

With a chain necklace as your base, you can mix and match brooches, lobster clasp pendants, and even clip-on earrings to design a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of transforming your jewelry collection into a masterpiece that can be switched up over and over.

Insider tip: Another idea with this same type of necklace is to snake a scarf through it as my mom has done in the past.

This isn’t the first time I’ve showcased ways to change up the jewelry we already have. Make sure to check out these other ideas

• Change up your accessories
• 5 ways to wear a pearl necklace
• Adding to a Multi Stand Necklace
• Layer your Necklaces

1. Choose Your Chain Necklace Base

The first step in crafting your unique necklace is selecting the right chain. This will serve as the foundation for your design. Look for:

• Chain Thickness: A medium-to-thick chain works best for holding heavier items like brooches and pendants.
• Chain Length: Consider the style you’re going for. A shorter chain creates a choker-like effect, while a longer chain provides space for more decorations.
• Color and Finish: Match the metal tone of your chain (gold, silver, or bronze) with the items you plan to add, or mix metals for a trendy, eclectic look.

Insider Tip: If you don’t already have a chain necklace, check second-hand stores, repurpose an old belt chain, or check out the options I found for under $25.

2. Gather Your Decorative Elements

This is the fun part! Dig through your jewelry box to find items you can attach to your necklace. Here are the top contenders:

• Brooches: These can be pinned directly onto the chain, making them an easy and versatile option. Choose brooches with bold designs or intricate details to add visual interest.

Insider tip: To make sure the brooch doesn’t turn while wearing it, I have used a clear elastic placed around the pin portion holding onto the necklace. I don’t describe this well, so you can see it better in the photo below or in this TT video.
Sometimes you just have to play around with the elastic and brooch to get it secure on the chain necklace.

• Lobster Clasp Pendants: Pendants with lobster clasps are perfect because they’re designed to hook onto chains easily.

Insider tip: Check some of your favorite pendants because you might be able to buy and use a double lobster clasp to include them in your custom chain necklace.
Place one end of the lobster clasp on the pendant and the other on the chain necklace.

• Clip-On Earrings: These underrated accessories can double as decorative elements on your necklace. Their built-in clips make them super simple to attach. I have used clip-on earrings in other ways too.
• Earrings: Certain earrings can be used in this fun project to create a custom chain necklace. Those that have a closed clasp like hinge back, lever back or kidney wire would attach easily to a chain necklace.

Bonus Ideas: Consider adding charms, small keychains, or fabric accents for even more customization.

3. Plan Your Layout

Before attaching anything, lay your chain necklace flat and arrange your decorative elements. This step helps you visualize the final design and to see that everything is balanced.

• Symmetry vs. Asymmetry: Decide whether you want a symmetrical layout (with matching elements on both sides) or an asymmetrical design for a more artistic vibe.
• Focal Point: Choose one piece, such as a standout brooch or pendant, to be the focal point of your necklace. Place it in the center or slightly off-center for an intentional look.
• Spacing: Leave enough space between items so the chain doesn’t look overcrowded. You can always adjust the placement later.

4. Attach the Elements to Create a Custom Chain Necklace

Now that you’ve planned your chain necklace, just attach the pieces to the necklace and throw it on.

As I stated earlier, some brooches may turn and move around on the chain, so I’ll include my suggestion again.

Insider tip: To make sure your brooches stay put while wearing your custom chain necklace, I have used a clear elastic placed around the pin portion holding onto the necklace. I don’t describe this well, so you can see it better in this TT video.
Sometimes you just have to play around with the elastic and brooch to get it secured on the chain necklace.

Make sure to take a photo of your creation in case you want to recreate it. But just because you loved how it turned out, don’t let that stop you from trying other projects with all of your fabulous brooches, pins, and earrings.

Final Thoughts

Creating a custom chain necklace with brooches, lobster clasp pendants, and clip-on earrings is a wonderful way to repurpose your jewelry collection and express your creativity.

The best part? This DIY project is completely customizable, so you can design a piece that’s as bold or subtle as you like. And no one will have the exact same beauty.

Don’t forget to share your creations as I’d love to see how you styled your unique necklace.

The post How To Create A Custom Chain Necklace appeared first on Jodie’s Touch of Style.

Jodie Filogomo Fashion Stylist

Jodie's Touch of Style showcases how it's never too late to look great including other older women and myself talking about fashion, beauty, and lifestyle issues.

As a retired dentist, Jodie takes her love of clothing and shopping and has come to find her superpowers in styling the same item in many ways. She is also a huge advocate for embracing our age and bodies. Getting old is a wonderful thing and learning to love ourselves while it happens is very freeing.

Looking great can happen no matter what age, shape or budget, as we show on Jodie's Touch of Style.