Three DIY Fashion Accessories Inspired by Art!

«Check out these ideas from #MetKids and make a ring, helmet, and cuffs. Wear them at home, to a holiday party, or on a trip to the Museum.»

Make a Ring

Follow along and learn how to make your very own ring

Want to dazzle your friends and family? You can make a ring inspired by A Goldsmith in His Shop. The painting shows a goldsmith who makes and sells gold objects. He waits on a couple in elegant clothes, surrounded by jewels, pearls, and more. To make the ring you'll need jewelry wire, beads, scissors, and a pencil. Wrap the middle of a 12-inch (30.5 cm) piece of wire around a pencil and twist the ends to make a loop. Repeat to make four or five loops, then wrap them around your finger to shape the band of the ring. Thread seed beads (tiny beads) on one of the loose ends. Form the beads into a circle to create the crown of the ring. Twist the loop closed. Then bend the crown so it lays flat on the band. Bead the other loose end of the wire with a medium bead and another bead (seed or medium-sized). Thread the wire around the outside of the last bead and back through the next bead. Pull it tight. Twist the top bead to fasten it in place. Cut the extra wire and tuck away any loose ends.

Fold an Origami Samurai Helmet

Follow along and learn how to fold an origami samurai helmet

Have extra wrapping paper lying around? You can fold your own samurai helmet. Look at Japanese armor from the early 1300s to get inspired. It's best to start with a piece of paper that is a 20-inch (50.8 cm) square. Follow the steps to make your own origami samurai helmet.

Design Your Own Fancy Cuffs

Follow along and learn how to design fancy cuffs to go with your favorite outfit

Want to add some flair to your favorite outfit? You can make fancy cuffs. Throughout history, both men and women have worn sleeves with cuffs that call for attention. Look at this suit and dress from the 1700s for inspiration. If you want lace cuffs, cut designs into tissue paper that you've folded like a fan. Unfold the fan and glue the tissue paper to a thick strip of paper. If you want cuffs with layers, fold napkins or pieces of smart-fab. Then overlap them onto a thick strip of paper and staple them in place. Once the cuff is secured to a thick strip of paper, circle it around your wrist and use tape to keep it in place.

Find even more inspiration in the family guide, What Should I Wear Today?

Visit #MetKids, a digital feature made for, with, and by kids! Discover fun facts about works of art, hop in our time machine, watch behind-the-scenes videos, and get ideas for your own creative projects.