How to Make a Beaded Cascade Necklace

A cascade necklace consists of layered rows of beads that decrease in number as they move down the necklace. Cascade necklaces pair well with v-neck shirts, as the shape of the necklace mimics the neckline. Create a beaded cascade necklace using a link-style necklace chain, round beads and jump rings. The materials are all available in craft stores, though you may want to check online for a wider assortment of beads. The project is appropriate for beginners and work time depends on your skill at bending headpins, as that's the majority of the work involved with the project.

Things You'll Need

• 28 decorative round beads, 2mm size
• Wire cutters
• 28 headpins, 1.5-inch size
• Pliers
• 22-inch link necklace chain, with closures

Instructions

1. Divide 28 decorative round beads into four groups. Place 10 beads in the first group, eight beads in the second group, six beads in the third and four beads in the fourth.

2. Use wire cutters to snip off the flat end of 24 of the 1.5-inch headpins. Leave the other four pins intact. Discard scraps. Thread each headpin through one of the decorative beads, placing the intact pins in the grouping of four beads.

3. Start working on the group of 10 beads. Use the pliers to bend each end of the headpin to a 90 degree angle. Use your fingers and the pliers to bend the pins around until they form a loop. Do not close the loops yet. Repeat for all 10 beads.

4. Lay a 22-inch link necklace chain flat on the table. Plan where you want to put the 10 beads; these will be the only beads directly attached to the necklace chain. Slip the opening on the top loops of the beads through the links of the chain at the points where you want them positioned. Use the pliers to close the loops. Twist excess wire around the base of the loop for a decorative look.

5. Repeat the loop making process using the group of eight beads. Position the beads below the center eight beads in the top row. This leaves one bead on each end of the top row without a partner. Hook the eight beads onto the upper beads, using the top loop of the lower row and the bottom loop of the top row. Use pliers to close the top loops. Repeat the process using the group of six beads, centering them below the eight beads.

6. Repeat the process for the group of four beads, noting that there will only be a top loop here since the pin end is intact. Arrange these beads on the necklace, attaching to the row above with their upper loop and the other row's bottom loops. Close the loops with pliers.