DIY Jewelry: The Ultimate Analog Hobby?

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A few weeks ago, we talked about the current desire to reconnect with a more analog lifestyle. To achieve this, creative hobbies are regaining a cherished place in our hearts. Indeed, a less connected daily life means more time available to try out new practices. That’s how I embarked on making DIY jewelry! And let me tell you, I loved this hands-on activity, and nothing can stop me now! Discover some ideas to recreate!

My Take on DIY Jewelry Making

While I completely missed the friendship bracelet craze, the idea of making DIY jewelry had been on my mind for several years. Especially after casually walking past Parisian shops brimming with everything needed to create your own adornments. So, it was decided, 2026 would be the year to take the plunge!

A Creative and Meditative Activity

While the shopping part was somewhat exhausting (explanation to follow), the activity itself was incredibly enjoyable and soothing! Indeed, on one hand, this analog activity is very creative as the possibilities for creations are endless. With the choice of various elements and how to assemble them, our little artistic side can express itself at every stage, and it’s truly delightful!

On the other hand, the activity has a meditative aspect and is rooted in the present moment, which is everything we seek to live an analog life! Although the practice is very accessible, it still requires precision in movements, and thus, a certain level of concentration and calm is necessary. Therefore, making jewelry becomes a relaxing moment!

How to Start Making Your DIY Jewelry and How Much Does It Cost?

Good news, making your DIY jewelry does not require breaking the bank or turning your apartment into a workshop. And that’s a major advantage!

For my part, wanting to make relatively simple pieces, I only invested in a set of two pliers (to open and close the elements) which cost me €7.50. Then, for the elements, I chose:

• Pendants and charms: unit price of €2.50, €3, €3.50, or €4.50 for the larger pieces.
• Chains: €2.90, €3.50 depending on the model
• Rings: €1.90 for 70 pieces
• Jade thread: €2.50 for 10m.

For this first attempt, I bought these various elements at La Perlerie, 22 rue du Temple, and it’s possible to have someone assemble your jewelry there if you don’t have the tools.

Additionally, I recommend you to identify in advance the items you like on their website before your visit, as my visits to the store were chaotic (the place is tiny and packed with people pushing around). Coming prepared will save you time and life points! And, if you are sure of what you need: opt for the in-store order pickup option! However, visiting the store allows you to ask for valuable advice to guide you in making your DIY jewelry, and the team at this location is really good at that!

Various shops of this type exist in Paris, and this one seems to be the most well-known – hence the crowd and the waiting line.

For What Occasions to Make DIY Jewelry?

While friendship bracelets had a childlike – nostalgic vibe, the DIY jewelry we highlight today has a more elaborate/refined look and can carry many meanings. Thus, whether for yourself or a loved one, to celebrate a birthday or create a travel memory, to be a lucky charm, or to replicate the piece you dream of but can’t find anywhere… There are many occasions to make DIY jewelry!

Some Ideas for Variations

It must be said that all these beads, charms, and other golden chains and colorful threads can spark many creative ideas! In particular, to make jewelry beyond the traditional bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces! Here are some ideas:

A Charming Detail to Personalize Your Refillable Notebook

As a fan of custom refillable notebooks, I was looking for a small golden detail to add to my faithful writing companions. So, I chose a charm to clip onto one of them and paired a pendant with a Jade thread on another (an elastic thread can also work)!

A Bag Charm That Represents You

To adopt the trend of handbag charms, while having a more unique accessory than a Labubu, beads and other trinkets are ideal for creating a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your image!

A Keychain That Smells Like Summer

Similar to the previous idea, a keychain made of beads found from all corners of the planet or sunny patterns will be perfect to transport us.

A Practical and Aesthetic Glasses Chain

Easy to make, the glasses chain will add the perfect pop of color and retro vibe to your pair of sunglasses!

All that’s left is for you to dive in! Additionally, charms can be found on Modalova!