How to Make Beaded Bracelets for Black History Month
Dr. Carter G. Woodson is credited with the creation of Black History Month. The son of former slaves, Woodson noticed a dearth of information about the role of African-Americans in textbooks in schools. This caused him to form an organization that, in 1926, began celebrating a week dedicated to the African-American history. This week was expanded to Black History Month in 1976. Educators often integrate Black History Month projects -- such as making themed bracelets -- into the curriculum during February.
Things You'll Need
- Cloth tape measure
- Scissors or wire cutters
- Jewelry wire or fishing line
- Clasps
- Needle-nose pliers
- Beads
Instructions
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1
Measure the size of your wrist using a cloth tape measure. Hold one end of the tape measure over the center of your wrist. Wrap the cloth tape measure around your entire wrist until two pieces cross and then take a reading.
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2
Cut your fishing line or wire using the scissors or wire cutter. For a tight bracelet that fits close to your wrist, add about 1/2 inch to the measurement. For something looser, add 1 to 2 inches. For example, if your wrist measurement is 5 inches, 5.5 inches gives a tight fit, while 7 inches gives a looser fit.
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3
Determine the pattern of the bracelet that you're making for Black History month. For example, string a bracelet with beads of the initials of famous African-American leader Martin Luther King Jr., or string a bracelet with an important date in African-American history, such as January 1, 1863, when Abraham Lincoln officially freed the slaves. Using colored beads that represent the colors of African flags is another way to honor the heritage of African-Americans.
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4
Tie the line or wire to the clasp. If you're using fishing line, tie it around one end of the clasp using a square knot and then snip the excess; if you're using jewelry wire, insert the wire into the opening on the clasp and then crimp the clasp onto the wire using your needle-nose pliers. One end of the bracelet is now secure.
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5
String your beads onto the bracelet by sliding each bead over the non-clasped end of your string or wire. Ensure that the beads are in the proper order to form the phrase, date, initials or color representation you desire.
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6
Attach the other clasp using the same procedure you utilized in Step 4 to complete the bracelet.
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7
Gently tug on both clasps to ensure that they are attached to the fishing line or wire. If they seem loose, retie or reclamp them.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
