How to Make Beaded Eyeglasses

Beading is an easy way to accessorize plain eyeglasses.

Beading an eyeglasses chain adds a personalized touch to your wardrobe. You can choose vibrantly colored beads or opt for more subdued, refined accessories. Make several different beaded chains to accessorize different outfits, or choose baubles that will match or complement the color of your frames. Glasses chains also make unique gifts for a friend or loved one. Making beaded chains is not a difficult craft and can easily be accomplished within an hour.

Things You'll Need

• Beads
• Beading string
• Scissors
• Crimping tool
• 3 mm crimp beads
• Needle-nose pliers

Instructions

Beading

1. Visit a craft store to choose your beads and purchase other equipment. Select smaller, lightweight beads of any material -- glass, ceramic or plastic.

2. Spread out your beads on a soft, terrycloth towel and lay them out in your desired pattern.

3. Cut a strand of beading string at least 36 inches long and drape around your neck. Cut off excess string to make the strand your desired length.

4. About 3/4 inches from the end of the string, place a crimping bead. Put the eyeglass holder on the stem of your glasses, and thread the short end of the thread through the holder, then back through the crimping bead.

5. Using pliers, tighten the strand until it is secured within the crimp bead.

1. Thread your beads onto the string in whatever pattern you desire.

2. Repeat steps 4 and 5 on the other end of the strand.

3. Cut any excess beading thread from the ends of the eyeglass chain.

Tips & Warnings

• It may be helpful to use tweezers to pick up the beads and thread them onto the string.

• Don't do this craft with small children since the beads are a choking hazard.

References

• Better Homes and Gardens: Beaded Eyeglass Chain
• Benjamin Franklin Crafts & Frame Shop: Beaded Eyeglass Chain