Layered cutters
9 3D-printable filesAn outline cutter and web cutter make the layered gem.
- Four matching jewellery sizes, plus a 12 mm disc cutter for an optional clay topper.
Build kit
3D print the tools. Make it in clay.
Faceted Gem Earrings Build Kit
3D print the cutters, then cut and layer polymer clay into Faceted Gem earrings, studs, pendants, keychains, magnets, brooches and wall art.
Digital download: STL files to 3D print, plus a PDF guide. Requires a 3D printer or 3D printing service.
What's included
18 3D-printable STL files, an illustrated maker guide and the Maker Licence.
Relief cutters
5 3D-printable filesThe outline and facet lines in one slab.
- Four jewellery sizes, plus a 20 mm relief stud cutter.
Wall art
4 3D-printable filesAn 80 mm gem for wall art or an earring display.
- Two matching cutters, a rear hanger and a tape-on wall stud.
Guide and licence
2 PDFs- Illustrated guide covering every included method and finish.
- Maker licence: sell finished clay pieces; files and printed tools are not for resale.
Choose a size
Sizes name the gem height, from the flat top edge to the bottom point, excluding the finding. Dimensions are the clay gem's width and height at 100% print scale, not the cutter's outside dimensions.
20 mm at the outlines' scale. Not an actual-size template.
Every layered cutter and the relief cutter comes in all four gem sizes. The 42 mm gem hangs from a looped ball post, not an ear wire. Relief gems hang from a glued bail, never a drilled hole, and make drops only at 30, 34 and 38 mm. The 20 mm relief stud has its own cutter.
| Outline to scale | Size | Clay outline (W x H) | Methods | Use it for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 mm | 19 x 20 mm |
| Relief stud earrings on flat-pad posts (its own relief cutter; do not drill) | |
| 30 mm | 28 x 30 mm |
| Light drop earrings or ball-post dangles, pendant, charm, magnet or brooch | |
| 34 mm | 32 x 34 mm |
| Everyday drop earrings or ball-post dangles, pendant, charm, magnet or brooch | |
| 38 mm | 35 x 38 mm |
| Bold drop earrings or ball-post dangles, pendant, charm, magnet or brooch | |
| 42 mm | 39 x 42 mm |
| Statement ball-post dangles (layered; weigh them), pendant, charm, magnet or brooch | |
| 80 mm74 x 80 mm |
| Wall art display, with a pair of 30 mm drops or on its own | ||
Layered gems are drilled after baking and full cooling. Relief gems hang from a glued bail, and studs, brooches and magnets need no hole. The guide gives the hole and hardware for each size.
Making methods
Two ways to make the Faceted Gem
Lay the pink web on an oversized yellow blank and trim both with one press of the final outline cutter, or press the facet lines into one slab with the relief cutter. The pictured pair is the 42 mm layered gem on gold looped ball posts, about 5.2 g per earring. This is over the 5 g comfort guide; weigh the finished pair and try it on.
Layered colour gem
Cut a thin pink web of facet lines, lay it on an oversized yellow blank, then trim both layers with one press of the final outline cutter. Suits drop earrings, ball-post dangles, a pendant, keychain, magnet, brooch or wall art.
Cut the web, finish the 42 mm gem
Cutter B presses and lifts from a thin coral pink slab, the six window scraps come out and the web sits on the yellow base; then the finished 42 mm pair and eight things to make. Follow the PDF guide for the full making method.
One-slab relief gem
One cutter cuts the gem outline and presses the facet lines into a single slab of one clay colour. Paint the lines after baking if you like. Suits 20 mm studs, a magnet, brooch or display piece, or a pendant, charm or drop on a glued bail.
Press a 42 mm relief gem
Facet relief cutter C presses one 3 mm yellow slab, lifts away and leaves the gem outline cut with the facet lines pressed in, ready to bake. Follow the PDF guide for the full making method.
Your first piece
Pick your first piece
Print only the files for the piece you are making; the rest are there when you want another size or method.
One cutter, one colour
A 34 mm relief magnet or brooch
- One file: the 34 mm facet relief cutter.
- Add
- One clay colour, a disc magnet or brooch pin, and glue suited to baked clay and metal.
A single press cuts the gem and presses the facet lines into one slab, and there is no hole to make. Leave it one colour or paint the lines after baking.
See what you needSmall layered earrings
A 34 mm layered pair on looped ball posts
- Two files in the 34 mm set: the web cutter and the final outline cutter. Print them once and cut two of each.
- Add
- Yellow and pink clay, two looped ball-post earrings with backs, two jump rings and two pliers.
The full two-colour method in an everyday size. About 3.7 g per earring with its ball post and jump ring (an estimate).
See what you needThe pictured look
The 42 mm layered pair on gold looped ball posts
- The same two files in the 42 mm set.
- Add
- Yellow and pink clay, two gold looped ball posts, two jump rings and two pliers. White paint for the highlights is optional.
The statement size: about 5.2 g per earring with a plain ball post and jump ring, over the 5 g comfort guide. Weigh the finished pair and try it on.
See what you needWall art display
Show off your earrings on the wall
Cut and layer the same yellow base and pink web at 80 mm tall and the gem becomes wall art that holds a pair of 30 mm drop earrings. Make it in any colours.
- Show it
- Hang it behind your stall or on a shop wall at eye height. At home it keeps a favourite pair by the mirror, ready to wear.
- Hang it
- Print the hanger and glue it to the back at the guide position. Fit it to a suitable nail or the printed wall stud before mounting. For the stud, follow the exact tape instructions for compatible surfaces, preparation, pressure and waiting time. This projecting assembly has no established tape load rating.
- Style it
- The final outline cutter presses two small marks where the earring holes sit best. Drill them out for a pair of 30 mm drops, or smooth the marks away and hang it as art on its own.
- Sell it
- You can sell the finished display with its hanger glued on.
The layered build at a glance
Cut the pink web, place it on an oversized yellow blank, trim both layers with one press, then bake, drill and connect the findings. The guide gives the full method, placement and attachment instructions.
Step 01 · Tissue blade
Cut the base blanks
Roll the yellow base colour and blade-cut two rough blanks larger than the gem. The final outline cutter is used once, at step 03.
Prepare one oversized yellow blank; the dashed shape marks the later outline cut.Help with this step
Step 02 · Web cutter
Cut the pink web
The web cutter makes the outline and facet lines as one connected piece. Clear the six window pieces, then lift the whole web on a tissue blade. Keep this fine outline bare when cutting; cling wrap changes the edge profile.
Remove the surrounding waste and all six inner pieces before lifting the connected pink layer.Help with this step
Step 03 · Final outline cutter
Place the web and make the final cut
Lay the pink web on the yellow blank by hand, with yellow showing all round, and tack it down. Press once with the final outline cutter: its blade follows the pink outline to cut the yellow, and it presses the pink lines in.
The final outline cutter over the pink outline. Press once, peel the yellow waste away and leave the gem on its tile to bake.Help with this step
Step 04 · Oven and pin vise
Bake, then drill the hole
Bake and cool fully, then drill the hanging hole with the back supported. Relief gems hang from a glued bail instead of a hole, and studs take a glued post. The guide gives the hole and ring for each size.
The layered gem outline. Bake and cool it fully before drilling the hanging hole.Help with this step
Step 05 · Paint and hardware
Finish and connect the pair
Add any painted highlights, then use a jump ring to join a 30, 34 or 38 mm layered gem to a looped ball post or ear wire. Use a looped ball post for a 42 mm layered gem. The included 12 mm disc cutter makes an optional clay topper. Make one pair first and check the fit, balance and comfort before making a batch.
The layered gem, ready for its jump ring and finding after baking and cooling.Help with this step
What you will need
Supplies for your piece
Use the tools you already own. Choose your piece to see its findings, then check the shared materials below. Some linked hardware packs contain enough for many pieces.
Links marked "Affiliate link" may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. Check sizes and materials before checkout.
What are you making?
For your looped ball-post dangles
The pictured pair: the gem hangs from the loop under a gold ball post, so it swings just below the lobe. All four layered gem sizes, 30 to 42 mm, can hang from a looped ball post.
Looped ball-post earrings with backs
A ball post with a small loop below it. A jump ring joins the loop to the gem. Pick a finding material that suits your ears.
Look forBall-post studs with hanging loops and backsCompare on AmazonAffiliate linkJump rings
Join each gem to its ball-post loop with a ring in 0.8 mm wire: 10 mm outside for the 30 and 34 mm gems, 12 mm for the 38 and 42 mm gems.
Our pick925 sterling silver open jump rings, 10 mm outside, 0.8 mm wire (20 pcs)Also in12 mm (38 and 42 mm)Affiliate linkGold toneAffiliate linkView on AmazonAffiliate linkSecond jump ring (optional)
Only if the piece hangs sideways: add a small connector ring between the first ring and the ball-post loop to turn it to face forwards.
Our pick304 stainless steel jump rings, 5.5 mm outside, 0.8 mm wire (100 pcs)View on AmazonAffiliate linkSmooth-jaw pliers
Two pairs open and close jump rings without scratching them. The linked pliers set also includes starter findings; compare their sizes with the guide.
View on AmazonAffiliate link
For your drop earrings on ear wires
For the 30, 34 and 38 mm gems. The 42 mm gem hangs from a looped ball post instead.
Ear wires + jump rings
Ear hooks, silicone backs and open jump rings in one kit, enough for many pairs.
Our pickStainless steel French ear hooks with silicone backs and open jump rings (600 pcs)Compare other optionsAffiliate linkView on AmazonAffiliate linkJump rings
Join a 30 or 34 mm layered gem to its ear wire with a 10 mm outside ring in 0.8 mm wire; use a 12 mm ring for 38 mm. The 42 mm layered gem uses a looped ball post.
Our pick925 sterling silver open jump rings, 10 mm outside, 0.8 mm wire (20 pcs)Also in12 mm (38 mm)Affiliate linkGold toneAffiliate linkView on AmazonAffiliate linkSecond jump ring (optional)
Only if the piece hangs sideways: add a small connector ring between the first ring and the ear wire to turn it to face forwards.
Our pick304 stainless steel jump rings, 5.5 mm outside, 0.8 mm wire (100 pcs)View on AmazonAffiliate linkSmooth-jaw pliers
Two pairs open and close jump rings without scratching them. The linked pliers set also includes starter findings; compare their sizes with the guide.
View on AmazonAffiliate link
For your stud earrings
Plus glue from the core kit below.
Flat-pad stud posts with backs
Glue one flat-pad post to the flat back of each 20 mm relief stud. This assortment includes the guide's pad size and others.
Our pickCraftdady stainless steel earring posts and backs, 4 to 10 mm pads (470 pcs)Also inTitanium posts for sensitive earsAffiliate linkView on AmazonAffiliate link
For your pendant
Plus glue from the core kit if you use a bail.
Necklace chain
Ready-made chains with clasps, so the pendant is finished as soon as it hangs.
Our pick18 inch stainless steel cable chains with lobster clasps (30 pack)Also inGoldAffiliate linkBlackAffiliate linkView on AmazonAffiliate linkJump rings
A ring through the layered gem's hole joins it to the chain. The guide gives the ring for each size.
Look forJump rings in 0.8 mm wire, in the size the guide gives for your gemSmooth-jaw pliers
Two pairs open and close jump rings without scratching them. The linked pliers set also includes starter findings; compare their sizes with the guide.
View on AmazonAffiliate linkGlue-on bails
A relief gem hangs from a bail glued to its flat back instead of a hole.
Look forPlain glue-on flat pad bailsCompare on AmazonAffiliate link
For your keychain or bag charm
Keep it decorative: hold the metal ring when you pull out your keys, not the clay.
Split key rings and swivel clasps
A split key ring for keys, or a swivel clasp that clips to a bag strap. This pack has both.
Our pickCoolrunner gold swivel lobster clasps and 1 inch key rings (25 of each)Compare other optionsAffiliate linkView on AmazonAffiliate linkJump rings
A ring through the layered gem's hole, or through a bail on a relief gem, joins it to the key ring or clasp. The guide gives the rings for each size.
Look forJump rings in 0.8 mm wire, in the sizes the guide gives for your gemSmooth-jaw pliers
Two pairs open and close jump rings without scratching them. The linked pliers set also includes starter findings; compare their sizes with the guide.
View on AmazonAffiliate link
For your fridge magnet
Plus glue from the core kit below.
Disc magnets
Glue one to the flat back once the piece has baked and cooled. Never bake a magnet.
Our pick10 x 2 mm neodymium disc magnets (120 pack)View on AmazonAffiliate linkKeep loose and finished magnets away from young children and pets; a swallowed magnet can cause serious internal injury, so get medical help straight away. Keep magnets away from pacemakers. Selling magnets? Check the magnet safety rules where you sell.
For your brooch
Plus glue from the core kit below.
Brooch pin
A glue-on bar pin that fits fully on the flat back of your chosen size.
Our pickBrooch bar pin backs (assorted sizes)View on AmazonAffiliate link
For your wall art display
The pair you hang on it uses the drop earring supplies.
Small nail or screw
Use a small nail or screw with a flat head that fits the printed hanger. Follow the guide for head size, wall gap and fixing position.
Look forA small nail or screw with a flat head that fits the printed hangerThin double-sided mounting tape
Follow the tape label for the wall surface, preparation, pressure and waiting time. This projecting assembly has no established tape load rating.
Look forThin double-sided mounting tapeGel super glue
Glues the printed hanger to the back of the baked, cooled display. Keep it out of the slot and let it cure fully.
View on AmazonAffiliate linkSmall drill bit and pin vise
Drills the two earring holes in the baked, cooled display. The guide gives the bit size.
Look forPin vises with micro drill bitsCompare on AmazonAffiliate link
Core kit for every pieceCheck your studio setup: 12 supplies used across projects.
Most makers already own some of these; the rest is your shopping list.
Polymer clay
Two colours for the layered gem (shown: yellow and pink), or one colour for the relief gem.
Look forSculpey Premo clay coloursCompare on AmazonAffiliate linkAcrylic roller
Rolls even slabs between thickness guides.
Our pickAcrylic rollerView on AmazonAffiliate linkThickness guides
Set each slab to the height the guide gives. Download our thickness guides separately, then print them alongside your cutters.
ClayBake toolClayBake thickness guidesDigital calipers
Checks each layer's thickness against the guide.
Our pickNEIKO 01407A digital calipersView on AmazonAffiliate linkTissue blade
Cuts the oversized blank and lifts the thin web without stretching it.
Look forSculpey tissue blades (rigid blade included)Compare on AmazonAffiliate linkPin vise and drill bits
Drills the hanging hole in a layered gem after baking and full cooling, with the back supported.
Look forPin vises with micro drill bitsCompare on AmazonAffiliate linkBaking parchment
Supports the piece while it bakes flat.
Look forBaking parchmentCompare on AmazonAffiliate linkOven thermometer
Checks the real oven temperature against your clay packet.
Our pickTaylor 5932 large dial oven thermometerView on AmazonAffiliate linkWet/dry sandpaper
Smooths the outer edge and back of the baked piece, from 400 grit up.
Our pickLANHU wet/dry sandpaper, 400 to 1,500 grit (12 sheets)View on AmazonAffiliate linkJewellery glue
Glue stud posts, bails, brooch pins, magnets to baked, cooled clay. Jump rings through holes do not need glue. Follow the adhesive label and let it fully cure.
Look forE6000 Jewelry & Bead adhesiveCompare on AmazonAffiliate linkDust mask
For dry sanding and drilling baked clay.
Our pick3M 8210 N95 particulate respirator (2 pack)View on AmazonAffiliate linkSafety glasses
For drilling and sanding.
Our pick3M Virtua CCS clear anti-fog safety glassesView on AmazonAffiliate link
Worth it if you make and sellTools that save time and keep pieces consistent when you make in batches.
Pasta machine
Conditions clay and rolls even slabs far faster than a hand roller. Keep it for clay only.
Our pickMarcato Atlas 150 pasta machineView on AmazonAffiliate linkRotary tool
Drills hanging holes and sands edges quickly across a batch of baked pieces.
Compare on AmazonAffiliate linkLiquid clay or clay adhesive
Tiny dabs help the pink web stick to the yellow blank where the broader parts of the web sit.
Look forSculpey Oven-Bake Clay AdhesiveCompare on AmazonAffiliate linkWhite paint and gloss
White paint for the highlights and a water-based gloss for shine. Test both on baked scrap.
Compare on AmazonAffiliate linkEarring display cards
Print the card and cutter files to present and sell your earrings.
ClayBake toolClayBake earring display cardsEarring display stand
Print a stand to show your pairs at markets and in product photos.
ClayBake toolClayBake earring display stand
Printing your cuttersAlready have a printer? Skip this. You can also send the files to a 3D printing service.
FDM 3D printer
Prints the cutter files. If buying, compare models for your budget and workspace, and ventilate while printing.
Look forBambu Lab 3D printersCompare on AmazonAffiliate linkPLA+ or Tough PLA filament
The guide gives the nozzle, layer and support settings. Match the filament diameter to your printer.
Look forPLA+ / Tough PLA filamentCompare on AmazonAffiliate link
Make it your own
Try another version
See how each piece is finished, then shop only what it needs. The guide covers the sizes and attachment steps; clay and hardware are not included.
Drop earrings
Hang the 30, 34 or 38 mm gem from an ear wire on a jump ring through its hanging hole. The guide gives the hole, ring and estimated weight for each size.
See what you need
Pendant
Hang a layered gem from a necklace chain on a jump ring through its hole, or glue a bail to the back of a relief gem.
See what you need
Relief gem on a bail
Press one slab with the facet relief cutter for a one-colour gem. Leave it plain or paint the lines after baking.
See what you need
Bag charm
Hang the gem from a split key ring, or from a swivel clasp on a bag strap, on jump rings. Keep it decorative: lift your keys by the metal ring, not the clay.
See what you need
Fridge magnet
Glue a magnet to the flat back for a bright fridge decoration, then check that it holds on your fridge.
See what you need
Brooch
Glue a bar pin to the flat back once the gem has baked and cooled. Dry-fit it first and let the glue cure fully.
See what you need
Earring display card
Show your pairs on printed earring display cards or a printed stand at a market stall or in product photos.
See the display card kit
T-bar display stand
Show your pairs on printed earring display cards or a printed stand at a market stall or in product photos.
See the display stand kit
Colourway
Try a Ruby palette
Keep the same cutters and swap the clay colours. Use the palette shown beside each colourway, or choose your own base and web colours.
- BaseRed
- WebWhite
Colourway
Try a Night palette
Keep the same cutters and swap the clay colours. Use the palette shown beside each colourway, or choose your own base and web colours.
- BaseNear-black
- WebMetallic gold
Colourway
Coral and emerald-mint wall palettes
Keep the same cutters and swap the clay colours. Use the palette shown beside each colourway, or choose your own base and web colours.
Colourway
Ruby wall palette
Keep the same cutters and swap the clay colours. Use the palette shown beside each colourway, or choose your own base and web colours.
Colourway
Sapphire wall palette
Keep the same cutters and swap the clay colours. Use the palette shown beside each colourway, or choose your own base and web colours.
Ball-post dangles
Hang each gem from a gold looped ball post on a jump ring, so it swings just below the lobe. This is the pictured 42 mm pair.
Stud earrings
Press a 20 mm relief stud with its own cutter, then glue a flat-pad post to the flat back.
Wall art display
Cut the same two layers at 80 mm for wall art that holds a pair of 30 mm drop earrings.
See the wall art displayMaker licence included
You may sell the finished polymer clay pieces you make. You may not sell, share or redistribute the digital files or 3D-printed tools. See the included Maker Licence for the full terms.
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