Screwback earrings can look a little tricky the first time you use them — but once you get the hang of it, they’re actually really simple.
If you’re new to screwback earrings or your child is getting their first pair, here’s our easy step-by-step guide to getting them in without the fuss.
What are screwback earrings?
Unlike traditional earrings with a push-on butterfly back, screwback earrings have a threaded post and screw-on backing.
Instead of simply pushing the backing onto the earring, you gently twist it onto the thread until it feels secure.
At The Pierced Peanut, our screwback studs feature our signature heart-shaped screwback design — because why should the back of the earring be boring?
How to put in screwback earrings
1. Wash your hands
Before putting earrings in, give your hands a good wash and dry them thoroughly.
Clean hands = less chance of transferring dirt or bacteria to the earring or piercing. It also makes it easier for gripping the earring and back.
2. Hold the earring by the front
Hold the decorative part of the earring between your fingers and gently guide the post through the front of the piercing.
3. Find the thread
Once the post is through the piercing, take the screwback and place it onto the end of the post.
The trick is to keep the backing straight so the threads can line up properly.
4. Gently twist the backing
Turn the screwback slowly, clockwise, to start threading it onto the post.
You should feel it catching onto the thread.
Keep twisting gently until the backing feels secure.
Don't force it. If it isn't threading easily, remove it and try again rather than pushing or twisting harder.
5. Stop when it's secure
Screw until it stops, then give it one extra final tighten.
The backs will slowly unscrew if not tightened properly-just as a screw would eventually come loose from movement if not screwed in fully.
Once it feels comfortably secure against the ear, you're done!
The backing should hold the earring securely without being uncomfortably tight.
Having trouble getting the screwback started?
This is the part that can take a little practice!
If the backing keeps slipping or won't catch the thread:
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Make sure the backing is sitting straight on the post.
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Try turning it slowly rather than quickly.
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Keep the earring and backing steady between your fingers.
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If it won't catch, take it off and start again.
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Don't force the backing if it isn't threading properly.
Once you've done it a few times, you'll wonder what all the fuss was about!
How to remove screwback earrings
Removing them is just as easy.
Hold the front of the earring securely and gently twist the backing anti-clockwise until it comes off the threaded post.
Then gently slide the earring out of the piercing.
A little tip for parents
If your child is wearing screwback earrings for the first time, putting them in while they're sitting still and somewhere well-lit can make the whole process much easier.
And if you're changing earrings for a child, keeping the screwback somewhere safe while you're swapping styles is a good idea — those tiny little backs have a talent for disappearing!
Why choose screwback earrings?
Screwbacks are a popular choice for kids because the backing screws onto the threaded post rather than simply pushing on.
They're also a great option for kids who are active, sleep in their earrings or simply have a habit of losing traditional earring backs.
At The Pierced Peanut, our kids' screwback earrings are made from nickel and copper free hypoallergenic stainless steel, with fun designs made for kids who want their earrings to match their personality.
From tiny and dainty to colourful and a little bit extra — there's something for every kind of kid.
New to screwbacks?
Don't worry if they feel a little fiddly at first. The first pair is the learning curve. After that, you've got it. 💗
Explore our collection of kids' screwback earrings and find their next favourite pair.