How to Make Bead Bracelets
Who doesn't want to stand apart from the crowd? Instead of buying a piece of jewelry that has been mass produced, why not make your own? By selecting your own beads, string and clasp, you can be sure that your bracelet is found on your arm and your arm only. Besides giving your wardrobe a unique flair, making your own bracelets is a fun hobby that is both easy to learn and inexpensive. Below are the basic steps for making your first custom bead bracelet. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Choose your beads. Visit a specialty bead store, craft store or art festival and choose your favorite colors, shapes and styles of bead. Also, try looking at secondhand clothing stores or antique stores for old beaded jewelry you can take apart. You can sometimes find beautiful and unique vintage beads for a song. There are thousands of kinds of beads. They can be made of glass, clay, metal, plastic, wood or bone to name a few. Sizes range from very tiny seed beads to large ones, the size of walnuts and even bigger. Shapes vary from round, to square, to tubular. With so much variety, your only limit is your imagination.
-
2
Choose your string. There are several different strings that one can put beads on. There are stretchy elastic strings, ropes, cords, wires and threads. Dental floss, fishing line and sewing thread are inexpensive, but will break easily. The best string to use for a bracelet is tiger tail. It is easy to thread and holds up well. You can also try memory wire if you want a larger bracelet. Memory wire is already coiled into bracelet shape and will hold its form even after being stretched several times. Both are available at most craft stores.
-
-
3
Choose your clasp. There are many different clasps available and they vary in price, look and function. Clasps made of precious metals, such as gold or sterling silver, will cost a bit more but may be worth the investment. Keep in mind that unlike a necklace clasp, a bracelet clasp will be noticeable. Precious metals are also less likely to tarnish and change color. Pick out a clasp that both appeals to you aesthetically and is easy for you to open and close. Steer clear of barrel clasps and others that require two hands to open and close.
-
4
Measure your wrist. Decide how loose or tight you would like the bracelet to be on your wrist. Get a friend to help or simply use one of your other bracelets as a guide if you are having difficulty. Cut the string to your desired length, making sure to leave at least an extra 2 inches. The extra length will make it easier for you to string the beads and attach the clasp when you are finished.
-
5
Lay out your bead pattern. If you have decided to use more than one type of bead, this is an important step. Laying out your stringing pattern before you begin will allow you to see if you like your design and avoid time consuming mistakes. As you lay out your pattern, examine each bead to make sure that none are broken or have irregular holes. Check to make sure that you have enough of each type of bead to complete your bracelet.
-
6
String your beads. Follow the pattern that you have laid out. To make stringing easier, you can attach the clasp before you begin or clip something to the end of the string. Bulldog or binder clips are great for this purpose. By attaching something to the end of the string, you will avoid having to hold the end while you bead with one hand.
-
7
Attach your clasp. Tie the ends of the string to the clasp. Make tight and secure knots. You don't need to over do it, two or three knots are sufficient. Once your knots are complete, snip off the extra string. Cut carefully. You do not want to cut too close as the knots may come undone or leave too much slack as it will be noticeable and uncomfortable. For added security, you can add a little drop of super glue to the knots, if you wish.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Check out wholesale beading websites and catalogs if you plan to make several pieces. The selection from these companies is huge and the prices very low.
If you have small children or pets, do not leave beads out to be eaten.
