How to Make a Beaded Name Bracelet

Beaded name bracelets are all the rage for school-age kids and well-dressed adults. Replacing the ID bracelets popular in the '70s and '80s, the beaded name bracelet is not only easy to wear but easy to make as well. Whether you use the inexpensive but sturdy plastic beads or the more aesthetically pleasing sterling silver beads, your beaded name bracelets can go with any outfit at any price point. Ready to make a beaded bracelet for yourself or a friend? Here's how.

Things You'll Need

• Letter beads in plastic or silver Beading thread or wire Wire cutters Decorative beads and spacers Bracelet clasp finding

Instructions

How to Make a Beaded Name Bracelet

1. 

   Measure out your beading wire or string. The average bracelet measurement is about 7.5 inches, but measure the wearer's wrist for a more custom fit. Add a few extra inches for knotting while you work. You can trim it to size later.

2. 

   Select your beads. Of course you'll need your letter beads, but you'll want to include some decorative beads as well. Select a small decorative bead to fit between the letters in the name and at both ends of the name, plus some more decorative beads to go around the wrist in a pattern.

3. 

   Lay out your beads. Lay out the pattern for your bracelet on a beading tray or towel. Start by laying out the letters and spacers, then build your pattern from the ends, being sure the style, size and color of the beads match at each end. Measure your bracelet so that it is about 7.5 inches long.

4. 

   Tie the clasp to one end of your beading string. Once you have attached one side of the clasp, you can begin to string your beads in the pattern you have laid out. Be sure to string the beads as you have them laid out to maintain your pattern.

5. 

   End the strand by tying on the other half of the bracelet clasp. String the clasp finding onto the bead string, then make a knot and pull it tightly against the clasp and the end of the beaded bracelet. Secure the knot tightly.

6. 

   Make a set. Now that you have the basic know-how to make a beaded name bracelet, try it again with different types of beads and colors. If your first bracelet used plastic beads, check out the silver or glass beads at your bead store to create a whole new look.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are making a gift of your beaded name bracelet, you can add another beaded strand to the bracelet to make it more decorative. Just tie both strands to the same clasps for a double bracelet.

• Be sure the beading wire or string you use for your bracelet can stand up to daily wear and tear.

Resources

• Better Homes and Gardens beaded name bracelet
• essortment.com