Old brooches can be absolutely beautiful, especially those with gorgeous faux cut gems that sparkle and shine when exposed to light. They might not be in style these days, but they have many creative uses. Although they are not cheap, they have amazing vintage flair. Consider these seven new uses for outdated pins, and turn glitzy costume jewelry into dazzling new crafts and decorations. They can be transformed into drapery decor, throw pillow decorations, new jewelry and more.
Scarf or Fabric Belt Pins
Lightweight fabric scarves and belts are highly stylish. Long flouncy scarves look great with spring and summer blouses, short-sleeved tops, lightweight jackets and lower cut sweaters. As the photo shows, they can be used as belts. They are fashionable accessories, and old brooches can be used to complete the look. Wrap and tie a scarf or belt as desired, and pin a vintage brooch to the center to give it a glitzy new look.
Wrap Closures
Cardigan sweaters are more like wraps these days. Many do not include buttons. Use old brooches as closures instead. One or two will keep the top closed and prevent it from slipping off of your shoulders. They will add color and style too.
Drapery Tie Back Pins
Search for drapery tie back pins and you will find that most are very expensive. If you are fortunate enough to have old matching brooches in your jewelry box, pull them out to create lovely embellishments for hold backs. Simply remove the attached pins, and add long tacks instead. Besides looking stylish, they will serve a valuable purposes. They are far more decorative than hooks or nails.
Cuff Bracelet Bling
A basic cuff bracelet can be enhanced with old broaches. Begin by carefully removing the pins. Use metal adhesive to attach a large brooch in the center. Decorate around it with smaller coordinating brooches or clip-on earrings with the backs removed. Your finished bracelet will look gorgeous and completely unique.
Magnetic Board or Fridge Magnets
If you want glitzy fridge or magnetic board magnets, use old brooches. Remove the pins and attach small super-strong magnets. They will look better than anything available in stores. Since they are very eye-catching, you will not miss important notes.
Vase Embellishments
Basic vases are not all that impressive, unless of course they are filled with gorgeous cut flowers. They can look better than ever when decorated with old brooches. Remove the hardware, and glue them to a solid-colored vase. It will look spectacular with or without flowers.
Original Picture Frames with Vintage Style
Vintage-style photo frames are readily available in stores, but they do not have genuine epoch flair. Buy a basic metal photo frame, and enhance it with old brooches. If you do not have enough to completely cover the frame, place one on the top center, or attach them to the corners. They will greatly improve the style of the frame, and draw more attention to the picture that it holds.
Source: Advanced Crafting Experience
