Bracelets are fun and easy to make. People of all ages can make it, even children. This article will show you how to make a simple bracelet using elastic cord and beads. It will also show you how to make more elaborate bracelets using wire, crimp beads (small metal beads to hold the ends of the knots), and hooks.
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Method 1 of 4: Getting Ready
Step 1. Consider using an elastic band if you are a beginner
Bracelets like these are fun and easy to make. You just need to attach the beads to the string and tie it. No hook required. To learn how to make an elastic beaded bracelet, look for instructions. You can buy an elastic band at a beading store or the beading section of an arts and crafts store.
- Clear elastic cords come in different thicknesses. Thicker elastic strings are stronger, making them suitable for larger beads. A thinner elastic string is more fragile and works best with small beads.
- Elastic cords have thread or fabric lining. Such straps are thick by standard bracelet-making sizes and are usually black and white.
Step 2. Try using wire if you are more advanced
The wire for stringing beads cannot be tied like an elastic cord and must be used with a crimp bead and hook. The crimp bead helps hold the bracelet together. Be sure to use special wire for making flexible bracelets. The wire used to wrap the wire is too stiff and thick; this kind of wire is not suitable for making bracelets. To learn how to make a beaded bracelet with a hook, look for instructions.
Consider using memory wire (hard wire that keeps the shape of the bracelet) to make a fun spiral bracelet
Step 3. Know that some beads work better with certain types of string
Small beads are well attached to a fine and thin elastic cord. However, large beads require something heavier such as thicker string or wire. You'll also need extra length for the bracelet if you're using large beads. These beads fill the space between the bracelet and the wrist, so the bracelet can be worn more snugly.
Step 4. Choose the beads
There are different types of beads. Each bead has a specific shape and some are better suited to certain designs than others. Here are some of the most common beads you'll find at a beading or arts and crafts store:
- Plastic beads are the least expensive and come in a variety of shapes and colors. These beads are great for craft and art projects for kids. To make a fun and safe bracelet for kids, try using a brightly colored elastic band and using plastic pony bead beads. You can also use alphabet beads so the kids can spell their name on the bracelet.
- Glass beads are very beautiful in shape and have a variety of colors. These beads catch light very well and have an average price range. Most of the glass beads are transparent and some have patterns.
- Semi-precious stones tend to be more expensive than glass beads. In addition, it also tends to be heavier. Because they are made from natural materials, no two beads are alike.
- You can also find beads made from natural materials such as seashells, wood, elephant ivory, and coral. Beads like these are expensive and unique; no two beads are alike.
Step 5. Decide on the design before attaching the beads to the elastic or wire
When you buy beads, you may find they are already dangling. This is another way to package the beads and not the final design. Remove the beads from the string and arrange them in a new pattern on a table or bead tray. Here are some bracelet design ideas:
- Attach the largest bead in the center and the smallest bead toward the hook.
- Alternate large beads with smaller beads or spacer beads (beads used to separate patterns on bracelets, necklaces, or crafts from other beads).
- Use a warm (red, orange, yellow) or cool (green, blue, and purple) color scheme.
- Choose a group of beads that are the same color, but different sizes and shades of color. For example, you could use light blue, medium blue, and dark blue beads.
Step 6. Consider setting up a bead tray
You can get them at a beading store or in the beading section of an arts and crafts store. It is usually gray in color and has a smooth and soft texture. This tool has an indentation in the form of a necklace with a size. This allows the beaded bracelet maker to compose a pattern and see what the necklace or bracelet looks like before attaching the beads to the string.
Method 2 of 4: Making an Elastic Bracelet
Step 1. Gather the equipment
Elastic bands are the easiest to make and require less equipment. You can make a simple and safe bracelet for kids using elastic string and plastic pony bead beads. You can also make a pretty bracelet using clear elastic string and glass beads. Here's the list you need:
- Elastic strap
- Beads
- Scissors
- Plaster or binder clip
- Super glue
Step 2. Measure your wrist and cut the elastic band a little longer
Take an elastic band and wrap it one and a half times around your wrist. Cut it with scissors. The rope is made a little longer so that it can be tied later.
Step 3. Stretch the elastic
Hold the elastic band between your fingers and slowly stretch it out. This will prevent the elastic from stretching later and creating gaps.
Step 4. Glue the tape to one end of the elastic
This will prevent the beads from coming off as they are installed. If there is no tape, or if the tape doesn't stick, use binder clips.
Step 5. Attach the beads to the elastic
You don't need a needle to do this; most elastic cords are stiff enough that the beads can be attached directly to the string. Hold the elastic string near the end and attach the beads.
Try threading the beads with the largest holes first. When the bracelet is finished, you can hide the knot by tucking it under the beads
Step 6. Continue to thread the beads until they reach the desired length
Once in a while, don't forget to wrap the bracelet around your wrist. The first and last beads should touch and the bracelet should be slightly loose. The bracelet should not be stretched on the wrist. If gaps or string are visible, a few more beads are needed.
Step 7. Remove or cut the tape and make a square/surgeon knot
Start by tying the two ends of the elastic band above and below each other like tying a pair of shoelaces. Make another knot like that but don't tighten it; The result will look like a circle. Wrap one end of the rope around one side of the loop. Do the same for the other side. Now the knot can be tightened.
Step 8. Try tucking a knot under one of the beads next to it
This will determine how you finish the bracelet. Don't forget to prepare super glue.
- If you can slip a knot under one of the beads, cut the remaining string and apply glue to the knot. Tuck the knot under the bead.
- If the knot can't be tucked under one of the beads, tuck both ends of the string into the bead. Apply glue over the knot to secure it.
Step 9. Wait for the glue to dry before wearing the bracelet
If the bracelet is worn in a hurry, the knot may come loose and the glue may break. Most glues will dry in about 15 minutes and harden after 24 hours; Look at the glue packaging label for a more precise drying time.
Method 3 of 4: Making a Bracelet with a Hook
Step 1. Gather the equipment
Hook bracelets are more complicated than elastic bracelets. You will need additional tools and equipment to complete a bracelet. Here's the list you need:
- Wire for stringing bracelets
- Hook
- 2 crimp beads
- 2 seed beads
- Beads
- Wire scissors
- Sharp tip pliers
- Plaster or binder clip
Step 2. Measure your wrist with a tape measure and add 12 to 15 cm
The bracelet should be made longer so that it can be finished. The bracelet should also be a little loose because otherwise it will be uncomfortable to wear. Finally, additional length measures are necessary because some beads create more volume than others.
Step 3. Use wire scissors and cut the wire band to the length of that measurement
The wire used must be soft and flexible. Do not use rigid wire intended for wrapping wire. You can find wire bracelets at a beading store or the beading section of arts and crafts stores. Usually found in rolls in the form of flat discs.
Step 4. Glue the tape to one end of the wire
This needs to be done so that the beads can be attached without coming off. If you don't have plaster, you can use a binder clip.
Step 5. Consider putting the bracelet design on the beading tray
If there is no beading tray, arrange the bracelet pattern on the table, right next to the tape measure. This makes it easier for you to determine how many beads are needed for the bracelet design. If you're using a simple design (like two alternating bead colors) or a random design, you don't need to do this.
Step 6. Attach the beads to the wire
Once the pattern is set, start by attaching the beads to the wire. Needles are not required to do this. Hold the wire by the end and begin to thread the beads. Be sure to measure the wrist once in a while; Large beads will add volume, so you will need to make the bracelet longer to match this.
Step 7. Finish by attaching the crimp bead, seed bead (beads measuring under 1 millimeter) and finally the hook
When all the beads are on the wire, attach the crimp bead, then the seed bead, and finally the hook. It doesn't matter which part of the hook is installed first.
You can use any type of hook. Spring clasp or lobster-claw clasp are the most common, but magnetic ones can make the bracelet easier to put on and take off
Step 8. Reinsert the wire into the seed bead and crimp bead, to form a loop
The hook should hang over the hoop.
Step 9. Gently slide the crimp bead and seed bead toward the hook
The crimp bead and seed bead should be tight, but still loose enough so that the hook can still be wiggled. Leave the end of the wire about 2.5 cm.
Step 10. Use sharp-tipped pliers to clamp the crimp bead
Make sure to clamp it tightly. The crimp bead is the “knot”, so it needs to be tightened. Pull the wire. If it moves, clamp the crimp bead tighter. Do not cut the ends of the wire.
Step 11. Turn the bracelet over and thread the end of the wire into the bead
The beads will slide toward the crimp bead and hook. Thread the end of the wire into the first few beads, to hide them. First remove the plaster or binder clip.
Step 12. Repeat this process for the other end of the wire, but do not pinch the crimp bead
Attach the crimp bead, seed bead, and other parts of the hook. Reinsert the wire into the seed bead and crimp the bead. Gently pull the end of the wire until the bead is parallel to the hook.
Step 13. Try wearing the bracelet and adjust it if necessary
If the bracelet is too big, you will need to remove some beads. If the bracelet is too small, you will need to add some beads. To do this, remove the hook, seed bead, and crimp bead and make adjustments. Be sure to reattach the crimp bead, seed bead, and hook if the bracelet fits properly.
Step 14. Clamp the crimp bead with sharp-tipped pliers and gently pull it to test the tension
If you notice something shifting slightly, pinch the crimp bead harder.
Step 15. Thread the ends of the wire into two to three beads and trim off the excess ends of the wire
Press the flat part of the wire cutter against the bead and carefully cut the remaining wire.
Method 4 of 4: Making a Bracelet with Multiple Strands
Step 1. Gather the equipment
Bracelets with multiple strands are a lot of fun to make. All the strands use the same type of beads, but in different colors. You can also make each strand using a different type of bead. Seed bead beads are great for this type of bracelet. Here's the list you need:
- Thread for stringing bracelets
- Needles for stringing bracelets
- Beads
- Bead tip or bead tip (also called bead clamp, seashell, bead end, or string tip)
- 2 jump rings
- Hook
- Sharp tip pliers
- Scissors
- Super glue
Step 2. Measure the wrist and add 0.5 to 2.5 cm
This will make it easier for the bracelet to hang loosely around the wrist. It also provides a measure of the length of the finished bead strand.
Step 3. Cut two strands of yarn that are twice the size of your wrist
This yarn will be folded in half in the next step. This thread will form a strand of beads.
Step 4. Grasp the two strands of yarn, fold them in half, and make a large knot near the top of the folded yarn
Two to four knots are required. Don't worry if it looks messy; because later this node will be hidden. The end result is a large knot and four strands of yarn. This will make the bracelet stronger.
Step 5. Apply super glue to the knot and attach a bead tip (used to hide and protect the knot and create a secure connection on the jump ring and hook) on top
You can use your fingertips or pointed pliers to attach the bead tips. The knot on the bead tip should be on the same side as the ends of the short auxiliary thread. The ends of the thread will be cut later.
Step 6. Thread four strands of thread through the needle of the bracelet and begin to thread the beads
Continue to thread the beads until the bracelet is slightly shorter than desired.
Step 7. Remove the needle and make a few knots near the last bead
However, don't tie the knot too close as this will put too much pressure on the thread. Try to leave a small gap between the knot and the bead.
Step 8. Apply glue to the knot and place a bead tip on it
You can use your fingertips or pointed pliers to attach the bead tips. The knot on the bead tip should be away from the bead.
Step 9. Repeat this process to create as many strands as desired
When all the strands are finished, arrange them side by side so you can find an interesting looking pattern.
If you prefer a "messy" bracelet look, intertwine the strands and don't let them separate
Step 10. Unscrew the two jump rings (wireless rings) using pointy-tipped pliers
Clamp the jump ring with your fingers and pointed pliers. The part of the jump ring that has no connection is between the finger and the pliers. Clamp the jump ring tightly with pliers, then move your fingers away from your body. The jump ring will open. Repeat this step for the other jump rings.
Step 11. Attach a hook and string of beads to a jump ring
Clamp the jump ring with sharp-tipped pliers and insert the hook and string of beads into the jump ring. Only one end of the beaded strand should fit into the jump ring. The other end should dangle freely.
Step 12. Close the jump ring connection
While still clamping the jump ring with pliers, hold the jump ring with your fingers. Move your hands toward your body, twisting the jump ring to close it.
Step 13. Repeat the process for the other hook and the other end of the beading strand
Insert the hook into the other jump ring along with the string of beads. Close the jump ring connection.
