How to Create a DIY Lash Set from Old Falsies

HOW TO CREATE A DIY LASH SET FROM OLD FALSIES

Turn broken or mismatched strips into a custom pair that fits your eye shape — using supplies you already own.

Last year, I found a tangle of old lash strips in my beauty drawer. The pairs were broken. One was missing its twin. The band on another was stretched. I was about to throw them all away when I had an idea: Why not cut them up and rebuild them into a custom lash set? That afternoon, I created my favorite pair of lashes ever — from three 'ruined' old pairs. In this guide, I'll show you exactly how to do it.

WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER THROW AWAY OLD LASHES

Lashes are expensive. A good strip can cost $10 to $30. When you toss them, you're throwing away money and adding to landfill. But more importantly, old lashes are the perfect building blocks for a custom set that fits your eye shape better than anything in a store. Each lash has a different density, length, and curl. When you cut and combine them, you get a look that's uniquely yours.

HOW TO BUILD A DIY LASH SET FROM OLD FALSIES

Here's the step-by-step process I used. You'll need: 2-3 old lash strips, scissors, tweezers, lash glue, and a clean lash tray.

Wash your old lashes with a drop of gentle cleanser and warm water. Let them dry completely.
Lay them flat on a tray. Look at the bands. Remove any old glue with your fingers.
Cut the lashes into sections. Cut a tapered strip into three pieces: inner, middle, outer. Do the same with another style.
Choose the pieces that give you the shape you want. For example, take the outer corner from a dramatic pair and the middle from a natural pair.
Layer them onto a new empty lash tray. Hold the bands together and press them into a single line.
Add a thin drop of lash glue along the joined band. Let it dry.
Trim the final band to your eye length. Your custom DIY lash set is ready to wear.

Pro tip: Photograph your eye shape first. Then position the pieces against the photo to see the look before you glue.

WHAT KIND OF OLD LASHES WORK BEST

Not every old lash deserves a second life. Use these criteria:

Bands that are still flexible, not cracked.
Lashes with full strands, not sparse and balding.
Different lengths and densities — that variety is what makes the look interesting.
Lashes you didn't love individually. They might be perfect when combined.

YOUR DIY LASH QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

How long does a DIY lash set last?

As long as a normal lash set. Keep the tray clean and you'll get 15 to 25 wears.

Can I mix magnetic and traditional lashes?

Yes, but keep the band type the same. Mixing band types makes the join bumpy.

What if I don't have a lash tray?

Use a clean credit card or the back of a compact mirror. Just make sure it's dry.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A LASH WORTH RECYCLING

DIY lashes are satisfying, but they take time. Sometimes you need a ready-made option that feels like it was custom-built in a lash lab. The key is a flexible band, dense strands, and a shape that lifts your eye naturally. That's the benchmark I hold every lash to now.

THE DIY LASH MAKEOVER

That's why I'm such a fan of PHANSTA LASHES. They make lash sets that feel as versatile as the DIY pair I built — but without the cutting and gluing. If you love the idea of a custom lash look but want it in one piece, this is your answer. See the styles that give you that 'I made this myself' energy — without the work.