Looking for that perfect gift for a friend or loved one? You can never go wrong with jewelry. Read on to learn how you can create your own custom lockets using only a few inexpensive supplies and a bit of creativity.
Hinge Locket- If gold and silver aren’t in your budget, try a locket made from hardware store findings. Just pick up a small door hinge in your chosen color; then, lay the hinge flat and glue a small picture to each size. Finish by stringing a necklace through one of the screw holes, and folding the hinge so that the pictures are hidden inside. You can even decorate the front of the locket by gluing on a small piece of fabric or another decorative item of your choice.
Coin Locket- Turn two coins into a clever locket with the help of a drill. Just place two coins on top of each other, and then drill a small hole through the top of the coins to provide a place for a necklace to thread through. Then, glue a photo to the front of one of the coins using decoupage medium. Finish by placing the plain coin on top, and suspending the locket from a chain. Note: You can make this gift extra special by using coins that feature the date of the recipient’s birthday or anniversary.
Pocket Locket- Not all lockets have to be made from metal. For a unique twist on the traditional locket, pick up a needle and thread, and stitch up a small pocket. (Heavy material such as leather, denim or canvas will work best.) Then, once your pocket is assembled, install a metal eye through the top of the pocket to provide a place for your necklace chain. Finish by tucking a photo inside the pocket. Note: You can give the locket a personal touch by stitching the recipient’s monogram onto the front of the pocket.
Foam Locket- If you’re looking for a locket that’s easy enough for kids to make, try one out of craft foam. For this project you will need some craft foam, scissors, a hole punch and a small piece of cardboard. Once all of your supplies are gathered, start by cutting a shape out of your craft foam. (This will serve as the frame for your locket, so be a little creative in what you choose.) Then, glue your photo onto the foam shape. Finish by punching a hole through the top of the locket, and stringing a necklace through.
Fabric Locket- For a quick and easy locket, fabric and cardboard are all you need. Just cut out a small picture frame from a piece of cardboard, and glue fabric over the resulting frame. (You can include a thin layer of batting, if you’d like to give the frame a bit more dimension.) Then, place your photo behind the frame, and glue on a piece of cardboard backing to hold the locket together. Finish by installing a metal eye at the top of the locket for the necklace.
Surprise someone you love with a handmade locket. It’s a gift that’s sure to be remembered for years to come.
