Things You'll Need:
- Bamboo beads
- Bamboo poles
- Scroll saw
- Other craft beads (see Step 2)
- Beading cord
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Step 1
Obtain bamboo beads. These are often available at craft stores or online specialty suppliers, like Fire Mountain (www.fire mountain.com). You can also get bamboo beads by purchasing the more common beaded bamboo curtains (available at home décor import stores and many department stores) and taking them apart. Additionally, you can buy hollow, thin reeds of bamboo and cut cross-sections with a band or scroll saw; take advantage of parts of the rod with knots, marks or joints, as these will make the jewelry more interesting.
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Step 2
Select other types of beads that go well with bamboo. Any beads in earth tone colors made of natural materials, like clay, stone or wood, will go well with rough, large cuts of bamboo; but, make sure the beads are large enough that the bamboo shafts will not slide over them. If your bamboo beads are light in color, smooth and delicate-looking, you can use more colorful beads or beads made of materials like glass or metal.
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Step 3
Make a bamboo pendant, if desired. Cut a thin cross-section of a large cane of bamboo to form a ring. Drill a hole in the edge, then loop jewelry wire through to form a stringing loop on the outside and a section on the inside where you can string a bead. Sand all rough edges.
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Step 4
Select a cord for stringing. If you want to leave parts of the cord showing or use visible knots as part of your design, thick, natural hemp or brown leather cord works well. Otherwise, select any strong beading cord made of plastic or waxed fiber, or use dental floss. Elastic cord also works well with large bamboo beads for bracelets and anklets.
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Step 5
String bamboo pieces into jewelry. Select bamboo pieces of consistent widths and create a repeating pattern for the best effect. Long bamboo shaft beads alternating with small, round beads of different material is a popular combination. If using a pendant, place it at the center of the necklace.
