How to Add Extra String to Handmade Beaded Jewelry

Add string to your homemade beaded jewelry so you can keep wearing it throughout the years.

As you get older, you grow, but that doesn't mean your jewelry grows along with you. If you have a favorite beaded bracelet, necklace or anklet you made in college, but it feels a bit too snug these days, you can easily add extra string to make the jewelry longer. Don't throw away a piece of jewelery just because it doesn't fit anymore; make it your own again with a few simple snips and knots.

Things You'll Need

• Two 2- or 3-inch pieces of string
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Cut off the piece of jewelry you're modifying one end at a time. If your necklace or bracelet is knotted in the middle of the back, snip the string in the center of the loop. Hold the beads in place with a loose knot until you get to each side.

2. Tie one 2-inch string to the piece you left loose. Make a small knot, so it's not very noticeable, and cut off the loose ends.

3. Cut loose or unknot the other side of the piece of jewelry. Tie another 2-inch piece of string, and knot it tightly. Cut off the loose ends.

4. Fit the piece of jewelry around your wrist or neck until you're sure of the length you want. Knot it loosely, leaving some give; if you're lengthening a necklace, make sure you can slide it off your head.

5. Remove the jewelry and tighten the knot or replace the fasteners. Cut off any loose string.