Elizabeth Banks

I asked for guest bloggers and Peaches delivered. Yes, that’s right, she goes by Peaches! She sent in this really fun DIY and I had to share it with you. If you try it out, I want to see. Leave me a photo in the comments below. Xx EB

Of all the gems in your jewelry box, an audaciously beautiful statement necklace packs the most punch. Not only can it elevate a little black dress or casual sweater and jeans, but it’s the ultimate conversation piece that'll pay for itself in compliments.

Going to a party where you don’t know anyone? Wear a statement necklace. People can’t help but want to ask you about it. Now, just imagine how swell you’ll feel when you tell them, “…and I made it myself!”

For all those afflicted with a serious case of sparkle tooth, candy colored gemstones continue to be all the rage. Finding the right combo can be tricky, especially for those looking to coordinate with just the right outfit. Lucky for us, inexpensive rhinestone accessories—found in most costume jewelry stores, thrift stores, or by raiding Aunt Edna’s attic—are easy to color at home!

To get started…

The What:

• Clear, glass-based jewelry. Plastic or opaque jewelry will also work, but generally, glass gives a much nicer end result.
• Nail polish. Any kind, any color. Glitter-based nail polish can be extra fun. Permanent markers. Find jumbo packs at office supply stores, or buy individual colored pens at any art supply store. Or you might already have some at home—just make sure they are permanent.
• Optional: Acetone based nail polish remover. This can be used to clean up any mistakes. Or, after you wear the final product, you can wipe it clean and start over!
  
  

The How:
Painting rhinestones with nail polish will make them opaque (like turquoise or opal), while permanent markers will cover the surface with translucent color (think rubies, citrines, so forth). If you are mixing both nail polish and markers on the same piece, start with the nail polish, as it will be easier to tidy up any mistakes. Working in thin coats, you may find you need 2 to 3 coats to achieve totally opaque color.

Coloring the stones with markers couldn’t be easier—just pretend they’re pages of a coloring book and stay between the lines. Or don’t. That’s the beauty of making your own stuff—you can do whatever you want. Just have fun!

Do you think you’ll try this necklace out?

Peaches is the artist and author behind Aunt Peaches, dubbed “the Citizen Kane of craft blogs” by the Huffington Post. Always on the lookout for clever ideas, Peaches shares creative and inexpensive how-to projects for those who love where they live. When she isn’t busy making, styling or photographing handmade goods for magazines and design sites, she is busy starting her second adventure: I Believe In Strangers: a daily collection of random acts of kindness. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter at @auntpeachesblog.

If you want a chance to guest blog for Elizabethbanks.com, here it is! Come on over to my profile, and send me a private message telling me why your guest blog will be the shiz. I might just pick you next.