How to Host a Bead Bracelet Party

Hosting a bead bracelet party is quite simple. To make stretch bracelets out of beads requires no jewelry making expertise and can be done quickly and easily. If you can tie two square knots, you can make a stretch bracelet out of beads.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. To prepare for your party, start by paying a visit to your local bead store. If you don't have a bead store in your area, many craft stores have a fair selection of beads you can use for your party. If not, check for online sources for beads including such sites as Ebay. You'll want to choose a variety of beads in different shapes and materials to allow your party to create wide range of bracelets to suit their taste.
   
   Your guests will probably want to make several bracelets, so make sure you have plenty of beads on hand. While you're at your craft or bead store, pick up several sizes of stretch cord and some super glue to add firmness to the knots used to hold together your bracelet.

2. Prepare bowls of beads for your guests along with stretch cord, scissors, and Super Glue. Arrange them attractively by color or shape to make it easy for your guests to make their selection. You may want to have magazine photos and catalogs showing examples of stretch bracelets that can be made to inspire your guests. For a little variety, why not have each of your guests choose another guest to design a bracelet for that befits her personality?

3. To make a beaded bracelet, each guest can simply string the beads of her choice onto an appropriate length of stretch cord, leaving enough room to tie two square knots to secure the beads on the cord. Once the knots have been tied tightly and securely, a drop of Super Glue is to the knot and allowed to dry. The stretch cord that sticks out beyond the knot can be trimmed with a pair of scissors and the bracelet is ready to wear.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget to have some refreshments for your guests. They'll need it after all of that serious designing and bead bracelet making.
• Stretch bracelets made in this manner that are tied securely and reinforced with Super Glue can last a year or longer if not subjected to rough wear. At that point, they may need to be restrung.