How to Use Up Extra Beads
Bead artists know the wisdom of purchasing a few more beads than any project requires. Beads break or roll away from the workspace and become lost. But when that perfect project is finished, this can mean that expensive beads are left over. After several projects, most artists have a number of loose beads that don't match. Turning those extra beads into a bracelet is an easy craft that takes little time and yields a great deal of pleasure.
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Large link chain
- Wire cutters
- Lobster claw clasp
- Clasp ring
- Needle nose pliers
- Head pins
- Loose beads
Instructions
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1
Measure your wrist. Add one inch to the measurement.
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2
Cut the chain to the total length. Open the jump ring on the lobster clasp. Hook it through the last link of the chain on one side and close the jump ring. Attach the clasp ring on the other side of the chain in the same manner. Lay the bracelet flat on the work surface.
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3
Choose the largest extra bead. Thread the head pin through the hole in the bead. Bend the emerging end of the pin to a 90-degree angle. Cut the pin 3/8 inch from the bead. Use the needle nose pliers to shape the bit of wire into a loop. Hook this loop through a link at the center point of the bracelet.
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4
Thread head pins through the next two largest beads. Prepare the loops above the beads and place them on either side of the bracelet. Place the rest of the beads along the bracelet in whatever way pleases you. You can organize the beads by size or color, or simply place the beads in a random riot of color.
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5
Check all of the loops that hold the beads to the bracelet. Tighten any that need tightening before you wear the piece.
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Tips & Warnings
Bracelets are great for using smaller amounts of beads. But if you have a large number of loose, extra beads, consider making a necklace, bracelet and perhaps even earrings.
Cut wire can be sharp. Be careful handling the pins as they're sharp.
Clean up any wire bits promptly.
References
- Photo Credit jewlery beads and charms image by Ralph Petty from Fotolia.com
