How to Crochet With Beads & Elastic

Add a new dimension to your crochet projects by using beads and elastic. Bracelets are the most common elastic and bead crochet project, but are by no means the only option. Before you begin your project, check that the elastic thread or cord you want to work with fits through the hole in the beads. If you do not mind spending a little money, you can purchase custom glass beads, Swarovski crystal or polished gemstone beads to add an upscale look to your project.

Things You'll Need

• Crochet hook, size # 12 steel
• Elastic thread or cord
• 6 or 8 mm pony beads
• Scissors
• Darning needle

Instructions

Adding Beads with Large Diameter Holes

1. Attach the elastic thread to the crochet hook with a slip knot.

2. Start to crochet by making chain stitches. As you create your crocheted chain, slide the crochet hook through a bead, draw up a loop and pull the hook back through the bead. Yarn over and slip the two bottom loops off of the hook. This method works with any stitch. To add a bead, just slide the hook through a bead at any point in the stitch where you have to draw up a loop. Continue crocheting as usual.

3. Finish the crocheted item by fastening off the thread and weaving it through the stitching with a darning needle.

Adding Beads with Small Diameter Holes

1. Thread the elastic through the eye of a beading needle. Using the beading needle, thread the beads you will need for your project onto the elastic thread. This work well when the beads you are using have holes that are too small for a crochet hook to fit through.

2. Remove the beading needle from the elastic. Attach the elastic thread to the crochet hook with a slip knot.

3. Pull the elastic thread along through the beads as you crochet. Add a bead by sliding it up near the crochet hook, keeping it to the back of the hook, and crocheting around the bead. Fasten off when you finish the crochet project and weave the loose ends through the stitching to secure.