So my 10-year-old niece really, really wanted an earring screen for her birthday. She was, at the time, using a tissue. Yes you read that right, a tissue as in Kleenex. Sad huh? But so resourceful that girl.
After searching high and low, I couldn't find one that would suit her. Anything was better than a tissue, but it had to be pretty, ya know? I found lots of nice jewelry trees, but I didn't think that was really her style. Next obvious step: blog search for a tutorial. I found the project inspiration from Anne Marie Beard. But, the design inspiration goes to Julie from Jane's Apron.
These vintage patterns are perfect for a young girl, how could I resist? I found this extra-wide frame at the craft store, though I also considered a shadow box frame because it would stand on its own. I opted for the extra-wide frame because it would feature the pattern girls more.
But that left me with the problem of how to make this stand on its own. The solution was simple, but took me way too long to think up! (poor Micah, waiting patiently) I found these corner braces, painted them white, and added some bolts because my wood screws were too long. I screwed them in about an inch from the bottom of the frame to allow it to tilt back a little bit, but not too much. I also added some hooks at the top for hanging necklaces.
I couldn't find a decorative paper wide enough so I painted it, dotted it, hot glued some "pearl" trim, modgepodged the girls on and finished with an entire coat (of modge podge) over the whole frame to give it protection and shine.
Unfortunately, I didn't get a nice full picture before driving it out to my niece in Massachusetts. I think you get the idea though?
What a great B-day gift. I love it!
Posted by: Hyein | February 25, 2008 at 01:41 PM
very cute and crafty!
Posted by: Jennalou | February 25, 2008 at 01:59 PM
Very cute!!
How did you get the shape of the girls cut out so nicely? I struggle to cut a straight line!
Posted by: Amanda | February 25, 2008 at 02:40 PM
oh my gosh, so cute!!! I've been wanting something like this for myself. I don't really wear earrings, but maybe if I had them out where I could see them, I might wear them. I LOVE it! I must keep this project in mind.
Posted by: Angelique | February 25, 2008 at 02:54 PM
What a cool Aunt you are! :D I bet she loves it!
Posted by: Wende | February 25, 2008 at 09:43 PM
That is so cute! Totally functional and a great gift:) Definitely a step up from the tissue!
Posted by: tricia | February 25, 2008 at 09:45 PM
oh my...that is SO cute!
Posted by: julie (jane's apron) | February 26, 2008 at 09:09 AM
That's adorable!
Posted by: kris | February 26, 2008 at 10:08 AM
You are super cool
I would have loved to see the
look on her face!!!
Posted by: sillyaya | February 26, 2008 at 02:02 PM
Allison,
You are so creative! That is such a cute gift idea, your niece will love it. By the way, I started a blog again let's see if I am able to keep it up this time.
Take care = )
Posted by: Cheryl | February 26, 2008 at 02:10 PM
I love it Allyson! I bet she loved it!
Posted by: Katie | February 26, 2008 at 08:07 PM
linked this blog to mine dear. nice blog.
Posted by: mangosteenskin | February 27, 2008 at 02:12 AM
So adorable and clever!
Posted by: CJ | February 27, 2008 at 09:43 PM
Well I never! I've never heard of a earring screen until now! Nice work on your niece's, very cute!
Posted by: Penny | February 28, 2008 at 02:42 PM
What a sweet idea! Thanks! I have a pattern on my blog right now that you might enjoy.
Posted by: Samantha | March 04, 2008 at 02:06 AM
oh my GOODNESS that is ADORABLe!
the idea of using the vintage girls from the pattern envelope? GENIUS! this turned out adorable.
ps. i Love that your nieces name is Micah, that's my husbands top pick for a girl name (if we ever have one ;] )
Posted by: Jimaie | March 06, 2008 at 07:16 PM
What a clever Aunty you are. The earing stand is lovely! How perfect for a 10 year old. I love the idea of using the vintage pattern images.
Posted by: Hazel | March 09, 2008 at 02:07 PM
I love this! What a great birthday present for a little girl.
Posted by: collins | March 27, 2008 at 09:09 PM
Great idea! I will have to look for some cute vintage patterns next time I go to an estate sale.
Posted by: erinberry | May 03, 2008 at 11:59 PM
i just love your creations...i have one of your car litter bags. i just love it! your blog is really great...i hope you don't mind that i put your link on my blog!
www.shopobjectsofaffection.blogspot.com
Posted by: Lani | May 21, 2008 at 07:29 PM
AWESOME!! Absolutely amazing!! I am so going to make one for my nieces!
Posted by: Amber Cripe | June 10, 2008 at 09:05 AM