How to Make Accessories From Beads

Beaded jewelry .

Use beads to make accessories. Common accessories are bracelets, necklaces, anklets and hair clips. Choose from hundreds of beads to make your accessories. Beads come in various shapes, sizes, colors and finishes. While making the jewelry, you can use beads of various sizes and finishes rather than using all the same type. Craft stores sell beads, wire, string, clasps and other supplies needed to make the accessories.

Things You'll Need

• Wire cutters
• Scissors
• Jewelry wire
• Embroidery floss
• Jewelry clasps
• Beads
• Hot glue gun and sticks
• Alligator clip

Instructions

Bracelet, Necklace or Anklet

1. Cut a piece of wire or string long enough to go around the body part. Anklets and bracelets should measure smaller than necklaces.

2. Attach a jewelry clasp to one end of the string or wire. The way it fastens depends on the type of clasp. Most will have an eye, or small circle, for you to tie or wrap the wire through.

3. Put the beads on the string or wire. If you are using string, you can break up the beads with knots. Fill the string or wire.

4. Apply the other piece of the clasp to the other end of the string or wire.

Hair Clip

1. Cut a 6-inch piece of wire with the wire cutters. Fold over one centimeter at one end of the wire.

2. Thread four to six beads onto the wire. Bend the wire after the last bead so the bare wire sits parallel to the beads. Add four to six beads to that piece. Twist the bottom of the two pieces together. Bend the bare wire again so it's parallel to the other beads. Repeat the process until you are out of wire. Bend the last centimeter of wire to hold beads in place.

3. Plug in a hot glue gun. Apply a line of hot glue to an alligator clips. Press the wire beaded piece onto the glue. Hold for 10 seconds. Let dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Never cut wire with scissors. It puts nicks in the blades.

References

• Beadage: Make Beaded Jewelry