DIY Leather Earrings with Copper Hoops: Easy Tutorial

 

Are you ready to elevate your accessory game with a stunning handmade project? Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a total beginner, this DIY Leather Earrings with Copper Hoops tutorial is the perfect creative outlet.

In this easy-to-follow guide, you’ll learn how to make leather earrings that blend the rustic charm of copper hoops with the sleek sophistication of genuine or faux leather. And to make things even easier, we’re including a FREE printable PDF pattern you can download, print, and use right away.

These lightweight, stylish earrings are perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself. They add a pop of elegance to any outfit—and once you make one pair, you’ll want to create them in every color and style.

Let’s dive in!

Why DIY Leather Earrings Are the Perfect Project

• ✅ Beginner-Friendly: Minimal tools and skills required
• ✅ Affordable: Use scrap leather and inexpensive copper hoops
• ✅ Customizable: Pick your favorite colors, shapes, and textures
• ✅ Lightweight & Comfortable: No sore ears from heavy earrings!
• ✅ Eco-Friendly: Repurpose old leather scraps or upcycle
• ✅ Trendy & Stylish: Handmade jewelry that stands out
• ✅ Perfect Gift: Great for birthdays, holidays, and more

Supplies You’ll Need

Materials:

• Leather scraps (real or faux)
• Copper hoops (various sizes, typically 1.5" - 2")
• Earring hooks (copper, rose gold, or antique bronze for a cohesive look)
• Jump rings (optional)
• Free PDF leather earring pattern (download below!)

• How to make earring wires here. 

   

Tools:

• Sharp scissors or rotary cutter
• Craft knife (optional for detailed cuts)
• Jewelry pliers (flat nose and round nose)
• Cutting mat (optional but recommended)
• Pencil, pen, or chalk (for tracing patterns)
• Ruler
• E6000 glue or PVA glue (optional, for added security)

 

Download Your FREE PDF Leather Earring Pattern

To make your life easier, I’ve designed a FREE PDF earring template that you can download and print at home.

👉 Download Your Free Earring PDF Pattern Here!

Step-By-Step Tutorial: DIY Leather Earrings with Copper Hoops

Step 1: Download & Print the Pattern

Start by downloading the free PDF leather earring pattern. Print it out on standard printer paper or cardstock for durability.

Step 2: Choose & Prepare Your Leather

Select a leather piece that suits your style. Soft to medium-weight leather works best. Faux leather also works if you prefer a vegan option.
Pro tip: Use metallic, embossed, or printed leather for a modern look!

Place the leather flat on your cutting mat, smooth side facing down.

Step 3: Trace the Pattern onto Leather

Cut out the paper pattern you want to use, then place it on your leather.
Trace the pattern lightly using chalk or a silver pen so it’s visible but not permanent.

Step 4: Cut Out Your Leather Shapes

Use sharp scissors or a craft knife to cut along your traced lines. Precision is key here—clean cuts make the earrings look professional.
For fringe or intricate designs, a craft knife may give you better control.

Cut 4 pieces and glue them together to create two double-sided earrings 

Step 6: Make your own jump rings and hoops

Make your own jump rings or use already made ones 

Coil the wire tightly around your mandrel or round pliers , as shown. 

carefully line the flush side of your cutters up with the first cut,  and complete your second cut.. This ensures that your jump ring is exactly the right size and that both cut ends of the ring are clean, flush cuts. Those nice square ends will then allow your jump ring to close neatly without a visible gap.

Step 5: Punch Holes in the Leather

Use a leather hole punch or awl to create holes where you’ll attach the leather to the copper hoop and where the earring hook will go.

Step 7: Assemble the Leather & Copper Hoops

Through the holes, thread the jump rings 

and through the jump rings, thread the hoop 

Step 7: Attach the Earring Hooks

Using jewelry pliers, open the loop on the earring hook, slide the copper hoop onto it, and close the loop securely.
Be sure the earrings are balanced so they hang correctly.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches

• Trim any uneven edges
• Add beads, charms, or tassels
• Use metallic paint to add accents
• Burnish the edges of real leather for a polished finish

 

10+ Creative Variations for Leather Hoop Earrings

1. Layered Look: Use two or more leather pieces with different lengths
2. Mixed Metals: Combine copper with brass or silver hoops
3. Boho Fringe: Add fringe layers hanging from the hoop
4. Stamped Leather: Use leather stamps for personalized designs
5. Painted Designs: Hand-paint abstract patterns or monograms
6. Feathers + Hoops: Leather feather cutouts dangling from hoops
7. Beaded Hoops: Add small beads along the copper hoop
8. Braided Leather: Braid thin leather strips around the hoop
9. Geometric Shapes: Triangles, diamonds, and squares
10. Layering with Fabric: Combine leather with fabric or lace
11. Mini Hoops: Create small, delicate hoop earrings for a minimalist style

 

Tips for Working with Leather in Jewelry Projects

• Always test cuts and punches on scrap leather first
• Use sharp scissors and knives for clean cuts
• Condition real leather to keep it soft and prevent cracking
• Faux leather can sometimes fray—seal the edges with a lighter or glue
• Choose hypoallergenic earring hooks for sensitive ears
• If your leather is too stiff, gently roll it to soften it up
• Don’t over-glue—less is more, and prevents messiness
• Balance is key: make sure your earrings are symmetrical and hang evenly

 

How to Care for Your DIY Leather Earrings

Cleaning:

• Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth
• Avoid water and chemicals
• For real leather, occasionally use a leather conditioner

Storing:

• Hang them or lay flat
• Keep out of direct sunlight
• Store away from moisture to prevent tarnish on the copper

 

FAQs about DIY Leather Earrings with Copper Hoops

What kind of leather is best?

Soft to medium-weight leather or faux leather is ideal. Avoid thick leather unless you’re making oversized statement earrings.

Where can I buy copper hoops?

Check craft stores, jewelry supply shops, or online marketplaces like Etsy or Amazon. You can also make hoops from copper wire!

What size hoop is best?

1.5” to 2” hoops are the most common for earrings, but you can use larger or smaller depending on your style.

Can I use glue instead of rivets?

Yes! Strong glue like E6000 works well, but always test on a scrap first to ensure it adheres properly.

How do I stop faux leather from fraying?

Seal edges with a thin layer of clear glue or carefully melt them with a lighter.

 

Troubleshooting Common Leather Earring Problems

Problem: Uneven cuts

Solution: Use a sharp craft knife and ruler for straight edges. Go slow and steady.

Problem: Earrings don’t hang evenly

Solution: Double-check hole placement. Both earrings should be symmetrical.

Problem: Copper hoops tarnish

Solution: Store them in an airtight bag. Clean with a jewelry polishing cloth.

Problem: Leather curls

Solution: Flatten under a heavy book overnight. You can also iron faux leather on low heat (with a cloth barrier)

 

Time to Show Off Your New DIY Leather Earrings!

Congratulations! You’ve just created a stylish pair of DIY Leather Earrings with Copper Hoops. Whether you’re gifting them, selling them on Etsy, or rocking them yourself, you can be proud of your handmade jewelry.

👉 Don’t forget to download your FREE PDF earring pattern here: Download Now
👉 Tag me on Instagram with your creations! #anielskaanieladiy
👉 Pin this tutorial for later and share it with your crafty friends!