How to Make Shell Anklets
Shells are a popular jewelry medium used in making bracelets, necklaces and anklets. A large number of small shells picked up on beaches seem ready-made for jewelry construction, as precise little holes have already been drilled in them by predators. Craft and discount stores offer a wide selection of pre-drilled shells at reasonable prices. Thread the shells on beading wire or nylon thread for extra strength and durability.
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Pre-drilled cowrie, puka or abalone shells or disks
- Beading wire
- Crimp beads
- Jewelry clasp
- Metal, glass or stone beads, if desired
- Wire cutters
- Needle-nose pliers
Instructions
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1
Measure the circumference of an ankle and add 4 inches to the total for attaching jewelry findings. Lay out the shell or shells and accompanying beads in a row after deciding on the design.
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2
Make a loop in one end of a measured length of beading wire and push the loop through a crimp bead so about 1/4 inch extends out the other side of the bead. Crimp the bead tightly on the wire loop using needle-nose pliers. Cut the wire using a wire cutter, leaving a 1/2-inch tail.
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3
Thread the first shell or bead onto the wire, making sure to tuck the 1/2-inch tail into the bead or shell. Continue threading shells and beads onto the wire until the anklet is complete.
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4
Hold the last bead or shell securely in place with the pliers and insert the loose end of the wire back through the center of the last five beads, leaving a loop of about 1/4 inch. Pinch the end of the loop slightly and slide a crimp bead over it, then crimp the bead tightly onto the wire.
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5
Cut off the tail end of the wire and tuck the end into a bead or shell to conceal it before fastening one section of a jewelry clasp to the loop at either end of the anklet.
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Tips & Warnings
Mix and match textured stone or glass beads with the shells.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images
