How to Use Threadless Jewellery
Threadless jewellery is secure, comfortable and incredibly easy to customise once you know how it works. Follow our simple guide to fitting, adjusting and removing your threadless jewellery correctly.
Threadless Jewellery at a Glance
No screws, no threading and no twisting. A small tension-fit pin keeps the decorative top securely inside the post.
No Threads
The decorative top pushes directly into the hollow jewellery post.
Tension Fit
A very slight bend in the pin creates the tension that holds it securely.
Easy to Change
Tops can be changed without repeatedly unscrewing tiny threaded ends.
Customisable
Compatible tops can be swapped while keeping the same post in place.
What Is Threadless Jewellery?
Threadless jewellery uses a simple push-fit system instead of a traditional screw thread.
The jewellery consists of a hollow post and a decorative top with a very fine insertion pin. A slight bend in that pin creates tension against the inside of the post, holding the top securely in place.
This system is commonly used for flat back labrets and allows you to change compatible decorative tops without replacing the entire piece of jewellery.
The pin pushes into the hollow post and is held securely by tension.
How does threadless jewellery stay in place?
Threadless jewellery doesn't rely on a screw thread. Instead, the insertion pin is given a very small bend. When the pin is pushed into the hollow post, it presses against the inside of the post and creates tension. This friction holds the decorative end firmly in position.
How to Put In Threadless Jewellery
Take your time, work with clean hands and avoid forcing either part of the jewellery.
Prepare Your Jewellery
Wash and thoroughly dry your hands. Make sure both the post and decorative top are clean and that you are using a compatible threadless top and post.
Insert the Post
Gently insert the flat back post through your piercing from the appropriate side, leaving the open end of the post ready to receive the decorative top.
Position the Threadless Top
Line up the fine pin on the decorative top with the opening in the post. Carefully insert the pin into the post.
Press Firmly Into Place
Hold the post securely and gently press the decorative top towards it until the pin is fully seated. The tension between the pin and post should hold the jewellery securely.
How to Adjust the Threadless Pin
The small bend in the insertion pin is what creates the tension that holds your jewellery together.
Insert the Pin Part Way
Place the pin part way into the compatible threadless post rather than pushing it fully into position.
Create a Very Slight Bend
Gently angle the decorative top to introduce a small bend into the pin. Only a very slight bend is needed to create tension.
Test the Fit
Push the top into the post. It should feel secure without requiring excessive force. Adjust gradually if more or less tension is needed.
Threadless pins are very fine. The aim is to create a small amount of tension — not a sharp bend. Avoid repeatedly bending the pin backwards and forwards, as unnecessary stress can damage the component.
How to Remove Threadless Jewellery
Threadless jewellery pulls apart rather than unscrewing.
Hold the Post Securely
Grip the flat back or post securely with clean, dry fingers so it doesn't move through the piercing while you remove the top.
Pull the Top Away
Hold the decorative top and gently pull it directly away from the post. A small rocking motion can help release the tension if the fitting is particularly secure.
- Don't try to unscrew the top.
- Don't pull aggressively.
- Keep hold of both small components once separated.
Threadless vs Threaded Jewellery
Common Threadless Jewellery Questions
Why does my threadless top feel loose?
If the top slides into the post with almost no resistance, the pin may not have enough tension. Remove the top and introduce a very slight additional bend before testing the fit again.
Make small adjustments rather than dramatically bending the pin.
Why is my threadless top difficult to push in?
Too much bend can create excessive tension. Check that the pin is only slightly curved and that the top and post are compatible.
Never force a pin into the post. If significant force is required, remove it and check the alignment and tension first.
Should I twist threadless jewellery?
No screw thread is used. Threadless jewellery is secured by tension, so the decorative top should be pushed into the post and pulled out when you want to remove it.
Are all threadless tops compatible with every post?
Not necessarily. Pin dimensions and compatibility can vary between jewellery systems, designs and manufacturers.
Always check the individual product information and use a top and post designed to work together.
Why can't I remove my threadless top?
A secure threadless fitting can sometimes require a firm grip. Hold the post securely and gently pull the decorative end away from it. A small rocking movement may help release the tension.
If jewellery cannot be removed comfortably or the piercing is difficult to access, ask a professional piercer for assistance rather than using excessive force.
How often should I check my threadless jewellery?
It's good practice to check your jewellery periodically and make sure the decorative top still feels securely seated in the post.
Is your piercing still healing?
If your piercing is new, irritated or still healing, avoid changing the jewellery unnecessarily. Jewellery size, material and fit can all affect a healing piercing, so speak to a professional piercer if you're unsure whether your jewellery should be changed.
