How to Make a Beaded Netting Necklace

Beads can be purchased in long strings called hanks.

Handmade beaded jewelry can be as simple as lining beads up on a string and tying a knot. Beaded jewelry can also be developed into extremely elaborate and complex designs. One method of beaded jewelry making is netting. This involves using a single thread to make rows of lace-like beading that can be worn as a necklace. The only tool needed is a small diameter needle that will fit through the holes of the beads.

Things You'll Need

• Beading needle
• Beads
• Beading thread
• Necklace closure

Instructions

1. Thread the base row of beads. This should be a number of beads divisible by four, plus one. For example 101 beads will be 25 four-bead segments plus one. For this tutorial, bead number 101 is the "last" bead. The most important aspect of beginning this project is to make sure that the first row of beads is the length you want the necklace to be.

2. Thread five beads onto the thread after bead 101. Then thread the needle through the fifth bead from the last bead.

3. Thread five more beads onto the needle, and then thread the needle through the fourth bead from the previous bead you threaded through.

4. Continue to add five beads and thread the needle through the next fourth bead until the very first bead threaded bead is reached. This forms a straight row of beads with one row of bead loops below it.

5. Turn the work by threading the needle back through the first three beads on the last bead loop made and flipping the project from right to left.

6. Begin the third row of bead loops by threading five beads onto the needle and then threading the needle through the center or third bead of the next bead loop. This third row of beads will have five beads in each loop and will thread through the center or third bead of each subsequent loop from row two.

7. Continue adding rows of netting until the piece reaches the desired width from top to bottom or until there is a row with only one bead loop. Tie the thread off.

8. Stitch 1/2 of the necklace closure to each end of the base row of beading.

Tips & Warnings

• Place a clamp or tape on the end of the thread to prevent bead loss before you begin.

• Do not allow small children to play with beads or necklaces as they pose a choking hazard.

References

• Healing Beadwork: African Net Necklaces and Instructions
• "Beadwork Presents Favorite Bead Stitches"; 2011