Fairy bread earrings are a playful, whimsical take on the classic Australian children’s party treat. Instead of eating them, you craft tiny, wearable replicas using polymer clay, colorful sprinkles, and earring findings. This project is surprisingly easy, requires no special skills, and results in a charming, conversation-starting accessory that looks good enough to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 block (2 oz / 57 g) white polymer clay (e.g., Sculpey III or Fimo)
- 1 block (2 oz / 57 g) translucent polymer clay (optional, for a softer “bread” look)
- Acrylic paint in tan or light brown (for bread crust), plus a small brush
- Fine sandpaper (optional, for smoothing)
- 100+ tiny colorful sprinkles (use the hard, cylindrical type, not the soft ones)
- 2 small jump rings (5 mm)
- 2 earring posts or hooks (hypoallergenic if you have sensitive ears)
- 2 small earring backs (if using posts)
- Jewelry pliers (round-nose and flat-nose)
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Toothpick or needle tool
- Clear gloss glaze or resin (optional, for shine)
Instructions
- Condition the clay: Knead the white (and translucent, if using) clay in your hands until it is soft and pliable. If using both, mix them together until the color is uniform. This takes about 2–3 minutes.
- Shape the bread slices: Roll the clay into a log about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Cut the log into 4 equal pieces (you’ll make 2 earrings, but have extras in case of mistakes). Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it gently with your palm to form a thick disc about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick. The shape should resemble a small, thick slice of bread.
- Create the crust: Use your fingers to pinch and slightly pull the edges of each disc upward, forming a raised rim around the perimeter—like the crust of a slice of bread. This step is what makes them look like real bread slices.
- Add the sprinkles: Gently press the colorful sprinkles into the top surface of each clay disc. Arrange them randomly, but leave a little space between each so they don’t clump. Press them in firmly enough that they stay in place, but not so hard that they flatten.
- Bake the clay: Place the decorated discs on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake according to your clay manufacturer’s instructions—typically 15 minutes per 1/4 inch (6 mm) of thickness at 275°F (135°C). For these 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) discs, bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should be firm but not darkened.
- Cool and sand (optional): Let the clay cool completely on the baking sheet. If the edges are rough, gently sand them with fine sandpaper. Wipe off any dust.
- Paint the crust: Once cool, use a small brush to paint the raised edges (the crust) with tan or light brown acrylic paint. Let the paint dry completely, about 10 minutes.
- Attach the findings: Use the needle tool to make a small hole near the top of each bread slice, about 2–3 mm from the edge. Open a jump ring with your pliers, thread it through the hole, and close it securely. Attach the earring post or hook to the jump ring.
- Finish and cure: If desired, apply a thin layer of clear gloss glaze or resin to the top of the bread slices to give them a shiny, candy-like finish. Allow to dry or cure as per the product instructions.
Tips
- Use the right sprinkles: Hard, cylindrical sprinkles (often called “jimmies”) work best. Soft sugar sprinkles may melt or bleed during baking. If you only have soft ones, you can press them in after baking and seal with glaze.
- Don’t overbake: Polymer clay burns easily. Set a timer and check at the minimum recommended time. If the clay is still soft, bake in 5-minute increments.
- Smooth the edges: Before baking, run your finger along the edges to smooth any fingerprints or cracks. A little water on your fingertip helps smooth the clay.
- Make a test piece: If you’re new to polymer clay, bake one extra disc first to see how your clay reacts. This saves you from ruining a whole batch.
Serving Suggestions
These earrings are a delightful gift for a friend who loves quirky accessories, a fun activity for a craft party, or a unique addition to your own jewelry collection. Pair them with a simple white tee and jeans for a playful look, or wear them to a themed party. They also make charming party favors for a children’s birthday party (for the adults, of course!).
Variations
- Chocolate fairy bread: Mix a small amount of brown polymer clay into the white clay to create a chocolate-colored base.
- Rainbow bread: Add a few drops of liquid polymer clay colorant to create pastel-colored bread slices.
- Miniature toast: Instead of slices, shape the clay into tiny toast triangles for a different look.
- Keychain or zipper pull: Skip the earring findings and attach a keychain ring or a lobster clasp instead.
Storage and Reheating
Store your finished earrings in a small jewelry box or a plastic bag to prevent scratches. They do not need any special care beyond keeping them away from extreme heat (like a hot car) to avoid softening. If they get dusty, wipe them with a dry soft cloth. They are not meant to be reheated or baked again after the initial curing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use air-dry clay instead of polymer clay? Yes, you can, but air-dry clay is more fragile and may not hold the sprinkles as well. If you use air-dry clay, let the pieces dry completely for 24–48 hours before painting and assembling. They will be lighter but less durable.
How do I make the hole for the jump ring? Make the hole before baking, using a toothpick or needle tool. If you forget, you can drill a small hole after baking with a hand drill or a sharp awl, but be careful not to crack the clay.
What if my sprinkles fall off during baking? This can happen if they weren’t pressed in firmly enough. After baking, use a tiny dot of strong craft glue to reattach any fallen sprinkles. Seal the whole piece with glaze to help hold them in place.
Are these earrings safe for children to wear? They are not recommended for small children due to small parts (sprinkles, jump rings) that could be a choking hazard. For older kids and adults, they are safe as long as the findings are securely attached.
Can I use real bread and sprinkles? Real bread would rot and attract bugs. Polymer clay is the only safe material for a wearable, long-lasting piece. You can use a clear resin to encase real sprinkles on a clay base, but the bread itself must be simulated.
How long do they last? With proper care, polymer clay earrings can last for years. Avoid bending them, and they will maintain their shape and color.
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