How to Create Inexpensive and Artsy Jewelry

Jewelry can add pizazz to an otherwise plain looking outfit. It is easy and fun to create all kinds of interesting looks. It just requires a little inventiveness and know-how on your part and you can be on your way to designing fashionable jewelry at a relatively low cost.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cord with a very slight bit of give
• Beads in your favorite colors
• Medallions that are lightweight like flat shells (optional)
• Ribbons (optional)

Create a Bracelet

1. Buy a thin, durable chord with high elasticity. Thin, plastic chords that offer a little give are ideal and usually more durable than the traditional “high-stretch’ nylon variety. The thin plastic chord is also perfect for tying as opposed to adding a clasp, which can be costly. It costs around $2.00 a spool and provides just enough elasticity to fit over your hand.

2. After measuring your cord to assure it will easily fit nicely over your hand, it is time to go to work on your design. While you are at the craft store, you need to determine what color scheme you would like to use and what medallion (if any) you'd like to use for your necklace. A large flat shell is usually a good selection for the purpose of an attractive focal point and it won’t weigh too heavily on your cord. Also, try to pick beads that are colorful and light weight.

3. Sting the beads carefully. It is advisable to use larger size beads for your first project. Try using solids as well as floral motifs that compliment one another. Once you are satisfied with what you have strung, tie the cord. Make sure you tie the cord several times to assure the beads are properly secured. Though the knot will be bulky, you can adjust it to the under side of your wrist to keep it hidden, and then you rest assured the bracelet won’t come loose. Trim any excess cord that may be protruding, however, do not snip so close that you cut the knot.

Create a Necklace

4. Just as in making a bracelet, assure that the cord you have cut will fit easily over your head and onto your neck allowing a little extra so you may tie the cord once you have completed the beading. Of course, a good bit of drape is acceptable with a necklace.

5. If you have opted to use a shell medallion in the middle of your necklace then it's advisable to use the piece to divide the two sides of the necklace evenly, causing it to be the central focus.

6. Begin beading both sides whiles still providing plenty of room to tie the chord then join both sides by tying the cord at least ten times. If you've opted just to use beads then string in the same manner, just be sure you stay focused and keep a firm handle on it. Without the medallion in the middle you may start from one end and bead continuously until you have enough beads and still enough cord to properly tie a number of knots in the back.

7. If you choose to use ribbon during your beading, do not use the shell medallion as it won't go with the ribbon. The ribbon should be used with beads that match appropriately. The ribbon would be good with beads that emulate the look of pearls or if you wish to achieve a Victorian look. String several beads and then tie ribbons in between beads into a bow. Alternate by stringing several beads and then adding ribbon and then once again stringing beads and then tying ribbon. Use medium size to larger size beads that look good with ribbons. Assure when you cut your ribbons that they are not stringy. If you have problems in this area, your best bet is to stick with beads only. In fact, beads that are similar in appearance to pearls are quite attractive without ribbons.

8. Once you have completed your initial projects, another project you may like to try is stringing buttons. Many craft retailers have a multitude of colorful and unusual buttons in which to choose. One thing to keep in mind is that buttons string much differently than beads so be aware of how they are laying on your cord. Buttons, that are lightweight may also work relatively well on the flimsier nylon variety of cord that stretches a great deal.

Tips & Warnings

• If you choose larger beads, your project will go much faster as it takes less time to string the larger beads. If you are impatient by nature, this selection may be a better choice for you.
• Some beads are extremely small and require a great deal of patience as well as a well-lit area. Find a place where you'll be comfortable with the duration of time involved.
• You may want to lay your beads out in patterns before the actual process of stringing begins, experimenting with different looks. This is a good idea, particularly if you are new to the world of "beading." Find a design you like and proceed with your project.
• Enjoy experimenting with different designs and beads and this can be a worthwhile hobby for years to come.
• Make sure when you have completed your beading, you have a good grasp of where you wish to tie the knots to your necklace. However, if you should lose hold and your beads scatter everywhere, don't despair. This can happen to the most experienced beader.