Flat Pad Post Earrings : Jewelry 101
How to Make: Flat Pad Post Earrings
Create a pair of sterling silver flat pad post earrings using a simple combination of beads, charms, and basic findings in this step-by-step guide. This design uses flat pad posts with an open ring to build a lightweight dangle-style stud, combining the structure of a post earring with the movement of a charm. With a small set of components and straightforward assembly, this project is beginner-friendly and easy to replicate for multiple pairs.
Below you’ll find the materials needed, step-by-step instructions, and additional tips to help achieve a clean, professional finish. A video resource may also be included if you prefer to follow along visually.
Component Overview
Flat pad post earrings are stud-style findings that feature a flat surface (pad) attached to a post, often paired with an open ring for adding dangles or components. Pads are commonly available in sizes ranging from 4mm to 10mm and can be used for both glue-on designs or linked assemblies like this one. Eye pins are thin wires with a pre-formed loop used to connect beads and components, typically available in gauges such as 24ga (.020") for lightweight designs. Sterling Silver Pendants and oxidized beads add contrast and detail, while crimp bead covers provide a polished, finished look by concealing joins and transitions within the design.
Materials You’ll Need
Flat Pad Post Earrings
Sterling Silver Earring Backs & Post Earrings — We used 8mm flat pad post earrings with open ring in this guide.
Eye Pins
Sterling Silver Eye Pins — We used 1" (24 gauge) Eye Pins for our earrings.
Pendant
Sterling Silver Pendants — We used our 11x15mm sterling silver triangle pendant.
Shiny Oxidized Beads
Sterling Silver Shiny Oxidized Beads — We used 7mm shiny oxidized beads in this guide.
Crimp Bead Covers
Sterling Silver Crimp Covers — We used 4mm crimp covers for this guide
Pliers - Chain Nose / Bent Chain Nose
5 Pack Jewelry Pliers Set — We don't carry pliers at Wholesale Jewelry Supply but we've linked a 5 pack pliers set for you here or you can always browse your local hardware/crafts store.
Step-by-Step Assembly
Earring Instructions
Start by sliding your bead onto the eye pins and loop the bottom of the eye pin closed so the bead does not slide off.
Gently open the top loop of your eye pin and attach it to the closed ring that comes with your post earring and close the eye pin loop.
Open the bottom loop of your eye pin that you made earlier, attach your pendant and close your bottom loop so that your pendant stays secure.
For our final step, add a crimp cover above your oxidized bead and close it with chain nose pliers until it’s flush with either side - your post earring is complete!
Tips for a Professional Finish
- Be sure before closing your eye pin loop, that your pendant is facing forward.
- Be sure you're gentle when closing your crimp cover as not to dent it.
Final Thoughts
Flat pad post earrings with an open ring offer a simple way to create dangle-style studs without needing complex components or techniques. This design keeps the assembly straightforward while still allowing you to build dimension with beads and charms.
Once you’re comfortable with the process, you can easily experiment with different bead sizes, pendant shapes, or finishes to create new variations. Mixing shiny oxidized beads with smooth rounds, pattern beads, or different charm styles can completely change the look while using the same construction method.
This style also works well for creating matching sets or small collections, since the components are easy to swap and reproduce. Try exploring different combinations across your bead and charm selections to develop your own variations using flat pad post earrings as a base.
