How to make mug charms

Here’s how to make mug charms!

There is nothing like a cozy, hand-painted ceramic mug to make your morning coffee or tea feel like a ritual. But if you think your favorite mug can’t get any more charming…think again!

Adding a custom chain and charm accents to a mug handle is the ultimate way to accessorize your drinkware. It adds a touch of boutique elegance, and it’s surprisingly easy to do. Whether you’re making a personalized gift or just upgrading your own collection, here is exactly how to do it!

SUPPLIES:

Your Favorite Mug: A sturdy handle works best (bonus points if it has gorgeous hand-painted details!).
Jewelry Chain: Choose a sturdy metal link chain (like stainless steel, brass, or plated iron) that matches the vibe of your mug.
Charms: Let your personality shine here! Think enamel shapes, glass beads, or a simple resin heart. I used charms from John Bead.
Jump Rings: Small open metal rings used to attach the chain together and secure the charms.
Jewelry Pliers: Ideally, two pairs of chain-nose or needle-nose pliers to easily open and close your jump rings.
Wire Cutters: To snip your chain to the perfect length.

Directions to make mug charms:

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Chain

The secret to this look is a sleek, snug fit. We want the chain to wrap cleanly around the handle without sliding down.

Take the end of your jewelry chain and wrap it completely around the top section of your mug handle.
Pull it so it sits taut against the ceramic. Make sure you leave enough room to join the links later.
Note the exact link where the chain meets, and use your wire cutters to snip the chain at that precise spot.

Pro Tip: It’s always better to cut it one link too long than too short! You can always trim an extra link later if it feels loose.

Step 2: Attach the Charms to the Chain

It is much easier to add your flair before the chain is locked onto the mug.

Using your pliers, gently twist open a jump ring. (Always twist the sides past each other laterally rather than pulling them apart into a “U” shape—this keeps the ring strong!).
Slide your chosen charm onto the jump ring.
Slide the jump ring into one of the center links of your cut chain.
Use your pliers to twist the jump ring closed until the ends meet perfectly.

Step 3: Secure the Chain to the Handle

Now, it’s time to lock it all in place.

Wrap your charm-adorned chain back around the mug handle.
Open one final jump ring using your pliers.
Loop this jump ring through both end links of your chain, bringing them together.
Carefully twist the jump ring shut.

The finished look!

And just like that, you have a beautiful, customized piece of functional art. The chain should sit snugly at the top of the handle, letting your charms dangle elegantly while you sip.

How to care for your mug charms

Because your mug now has jewelry, it requires a little extra love. Always hand-wash your accessorized mugs gently, and avoid putting them in the microwave if you used real metal chains and charms!

NOTE: You can also use a lobster or magnetic clasp to join the links so you can remove the charm chain. This allows easy removal of the charm set before washing the mug or putting it in the dishwasher.

More ideas for your mug charms!

Create themes to go with the mug you choose – a color story, astrology, bithstone, etc.

Pair a cactus or sunset charm with raw turquoise beads or tiny terra cotta elements.

Use crescent moons, stars, and tiny quartz crystals.

Combine a tiny open-book charm with a miniature coffee bean or teacup charm.

Experiment with stainless steel, titanium, or waterproof tarnish-resistant metals that can withstand an accidental splash of soapy water better than standard plated metals.

Have a charm bar for a craft night.