How to Make a Beaded Bracelet (Stretch and Clasp Styles)
Beaded bracelets are the perfect first jewellery project: quick, inexpensive and endlessly customisable. Here are two styles, a no-tools stretch bracelet and a classic bracelet with a clasp.
Style 1: Stretch bracelet
You'll need
- Beads: glass, acrylic, clay or letter beads
- Elastic bead cord
- Scissors and a bead stopper or bulldog clip
Steps
- Measure your wrist and add about 1 cm for a comfortable fit.
- Cut elastic about 10 cm longer than that, and pre-stretch it a few times so the bracelet won't sag later.
- Clip one end, then thread on your beads in your chosen pattern until it reaches the length you need.
- Tie the ends in a tight surgeon's knot (like a reef knot, with an extra wrap on the first loop). Add a tiny dab of glue if you like, then hide the knot inside a bead with a larger hole.
Style 2: Clasp bracelet
You'll need
- Beads, and beading wire or strong thread
- A clasp (lobster or toggle), two crimp beads and jump rings
- Crimping or flat-nose pliers and cutters
Steps
- Thread a crimp bead and one half of the clasp onto the wire, loop the wire back through the crimp bead, and squash the crimp flat with pliers.
- Thread on your beads, tucking the short tail inside the first few.
- Add the second crimp bead and the other half of the clasp, loop back, pull snug (not tight) and crimp.
- Trim any excess wire.
Design ideas
- Letter beads spell names and words, which kids love for friendship bracelets.
- Mix bead sizes, with a large "focal" bead in the middle.
- Add a small charm for a personal touch.
Bead kits come with everything in one box and make a lovely gift. Browse our jewellery making supplies.
