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DIY Dye-Sub Teardrop Earrings
Add a bold, artistic statement to your accessory collection with this quick and creative sublimation project. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to create your own custom earrings using our Set of 2 Teardrop Sublimation Earrings Blank — perfect for gifts, markets, or simply treating yourself to something unique.
For this project we’ll be using artwork from our Abstract Alcohol Ink collection, featuring fluid, vibrant designs with a modern edge. This artwork is free with any dye-sub blank purchase from Echidna. However, you can also use your own artwork or photos—just make sure it’s sized correctly for the earring blanks and prepared for sublimation printing. How to access the provided artwork →
Whether you're crafting a statement pair or producing multiples for sale, this earring project is a perfect introduction to sublimating small-scale accessories.
What you will need:
- Sublimation Printer & Inks (Sawgrass, Brother SP1)
- Sublimation Transfer Paper
- Set of 2 Teardrop Sublimation Earrings Blank (double-sided)
- Heat Resistant Tape
- Protective Heat Resistant Sheet x 2
- Plain Copy Paper
- Flat Heat Press
- Lint Roller
- Heat Gloves (Optional)
- Earring hardware (included with the blank)
For more information on Essential Equipment for Dye Sublimation, take a look at our article →
Shop online:
Download the artwork:
This project uses artwork from our Abstract Alcohol Ink collection. This design is included free with any dye-sub blank purchase from Echidna.
Formats included: PNG / PDF (A4 & Letter Size), suitable for Set of 2 Teardrop Sublimation Earrings Blank
Already purchased a blank? Learn how to access the artwork →
⚠️ Tip: Planning to use Artspira on your phone or tablet? Be sure to download the files straight from our website using that same device.
Printing help:
In this tutorial, we’re using the Brother SP1 with A4 paper and printing directly from the ready-made PDF template provided. If you prefer to use your own artwork or are working with a different blank size, you can use any sublimation printer and compatible software. Refer to the helpful links below for guidance tailored to your setup.
Helpful Links
Brother SP1 Users
- Creating your own artwork in Artspira? Learn how to Upload & Print from Artspira.
- Using a PDF with correct sizing? Refer to Brother's video on How to print from PC.
Sawgrass Users
- Creating your own artwork in CreativeStudio or printing directly via the Print Utility? Refer to the Sawgrass Knowledgebase for help.
Detailed instructions:
Pressing guide for instructions Set of 2 Teardrop Sublimation Earrings Blank:
- Preheat your press to 190°C - 200°C
- Time: 60-90 seconds
- Pressure: Medium
- Print your design
Use the PDF template provided by Echidna, which is specifically designed to suit the 3.5cm x 5.5cm teardrop earring blank and includes a helpful alignment rectangle for easy positioning. The template is available in both A4 and Letter sizes, so be sure to select the version that matches the paper you are using. To ensure correct sizing and positioning, we recommend following Brother’s video guide on How to print from PC for the Brother SP1. Most importantly, don’t forget to enable the mirror image setting in your printer options before printing.
- Cut out your design
Trim your printed design, leaving a slight border to allow space for taping. We’ve spaced out each earring design within the template to give you room for cutting and securing with tape. This extra margin helps ensure the artwork stays aligned and doesn't shift during pressing.
- Protect your press surface
Place a protective heat-resistant sheet on the bottom platen of your press. This shields your equipment from ink bleed during the pressing process.
- Protect your sheet
Place a plain sheet of copy paper on top of the protective sheet. This extra disposable layer absorbs any excess ink and helps keep your protective sheet clean.
- Prepare the earring
Clean the earring blank using a lint roller to remove any dust or debris that could interfere with the transfer.
- Align and tape the design
Position the earring within the printed rectangle design, and secure firmly with heat-resistant tape to prevent movement during pressing.
- Place earring on heat press
Lay the taped earring with the paper face up (printed side facing the heating element).
- Press the first side
Place a second protective sheet over the earring and press according to your blank’s recommended settings (Refer to Pressing guide for instructions above for more information).
- Allow to cool completely
Carefully remove the earring from the press and let it cool fully before handling or flipping.
- Repeat for the second side
Flip the earring over and align it with your second printed design, again staying within the design rectangle. Secure with fresh heat-resistant tape and repeat steps 7–9.
⚠️ Important: After pressing the second side, do not remove the tape until the earring has fully cooled. Removing it while warm can cause the ink or coating from the first side to lift or peel. - Assemble the earrings
Use your fingers to attach the earring hardware through the pre-cut holes by simply pinching the hardware together.
- Admire and enjoy!
Show off your handmade earrings, gift them to a friend, or make multiple pairs to sell. These lightweight teardrop earrings are sure to turn heads!
Free Embroidery Designs
We're excited to offer our free Echidna designs available for download. These free designs are perfect for those at a beginner or an advanced level. Add these designs to your stash and create incredible embroidery!
View all free designs >
Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machines
Interested in learning how to sew, quilt or embroider? Take a look at the innovative Brother machines available for purchase at Echidna Sewing. Wherever possible we will beat any deal and you will always receive ongoing service and support!
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Learn to Sew or Embroider with Echidna Sewing
Come along to our fun-filled classes to learn more about sewing, embroidery and crafting. Classes cater for all skill levels, whether you're just starting out or already have advanced knowledge.
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Echidna project material/ fabric requirements are an indication only and can seem to be generous. This has been intentional. Should you make a cutting or embroidery mistake you will have sufficient fabric to rectify your error.
