Adorable DIY Candy Jewelry Charms

As a person with a major sweet tooth and a reputation of being a bit of a packrat, I have kept a huge collection of candy wrappers for years, building up my hordes of Mars Starburst and Tootsie Rolls wrappers for no apparent reason. One day as I was going through my piles, I had the sudden inspiration to use my gazillion wrappers to create some sort of jewelry. I experimented and planned until I finally had created two adorable prototypes of Starburst and Tootsie Roll charms that could be used as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and even keychains. Whether you're a creative, fun artist who loves wearing unique jewelry or a business person looking to add some fun pop to your look, these charms are easy to make and perfect for everyone.

This craft can be very flexible, and almost any type of bubblegum or candy drop will do. I chose to use Mars Starburst and Tootsie Rolls wrappers for my jewelry.

Supplies:

• hot glue gun (or any other type of strong glue)
• a jewelry jump ring or circular clasp
• candy wrapper
• masking tape (optional)
• earring hook, necklace chain, or string (optional, to make jewelry)

To rewrap the wrappers in a way that looks as though there is candy inside, follow the fold lines originally on the candy. Begin by folding one side atop the other as shown in the pictures to create a simple box or cylindrical shape. Hold in place with masking tape, if it won't stay.

Next, following the previously folded lines, fold up the sides (if no fold lines visible, simply fold each side into a triangle shape) and hot glue on the top of the candy. If the candy is struggling to hold its shape, you can fill it with tissue or paper to give it a full look. It may take a bit of adjusting, but when compared next to an actual candy, it's difficult to tell the difference (see second picture). With the Tootsie Roll, simply twist the sides back in.

Now that you have your candy, simply place a dab of hot glue on the top of the Starburst and in the folds of the Tootsie Roll sides. Carefully place a jump ring or circular clasp on the glue and let it dry completely. Now feel free to slip or hook your DIY charms onto a necklace chain or and earring hook to create your own delicious looking accessories.