How to Make Stretch Cord Bead Bracelets

A stretch cord bead bracelet can be created in a short time to enhance a casual outfit, a child's costume, just for fun or to give as a gift. Children and adults enjoy working on projects like this and wearing several bracelets at the same time.

Things You'll Need

• Assorted beads, wood, plastic or glass
• Stretch shiny cording
• Scissors

Instructions

1. For an adult-size bracelet, cut an 18-inch length of shiny stretch cord and fold it in half. String on one bead and pull it toward the folded end. Hold the two loose ends together and use as a kind of needle to string more beads onto the cord. The one bead at the fold ended will keep the beads from falling off.

2. String beads onto the two cords held together, one at a time either in a random fashion or in a particular design, combining different kinds of beads or the same ones. Add beads until there is 1 inch left at the end of the cord.

3. Slip one end of the cord through the bead at the fold and tie it in a strong knot with the other end of the cord. Using scissors, cut off most of the cord extending beyond the knot. Move the beads around on the cord for balance and to hide the knot in the last bead.

4. Slip over wrist and wear.

Tips & Warnings

• Adjust the length of the cord to fit a child's wrist. Make more than one bracelet at a time and mix and match bead colors. Doubling (or folding) the cord length makes the bracelet durable.

• A young child may need adult help with this project.