Creating jewelry with your own hands can be fun for many reasons: not only can you give free rein to your creativity, but there is also the possibility of creating something completely unique, which reflects your personal style. On top of that, it's a really simple job. Read this article to find out all the tricks to create a wonderful beaded necklace.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Getting started
Step 1. Collect the supplies for the necklace
Make sure you have everything you need close at hand: beads, thread, wire cutter, crimpers, extra strong glue and clasps to finish the necklace correctly.
- The best threads are flexible metal or nylon threads for costume jewelery.
- This type of material is readily available at DIY stores.
Step 2. Decide on the style of the necklace
When evaluating the style your necklace should have, think about some aspects such as length. If you prefer it short, consider making a collar or a choker. On the other hand, if you want a longer necklace, it would be more appropriate to make a lace (usually long to the chest).
- You can also create a necklace that follows your personal style and has the length of your choice. The above are just simple tips that give you a rough idea of the various results.
- In the total length of the necklace you will also need to calculate the beads and the size of the clasp you have chosen.
Step 3. Choose the length
The collar is the shortest necklace model and corresponds to an overall length of approximately 33 cm. The choker is a little longer and reaches around 35-40cm. The lace is even longer and can reach 115 cm. As indicated above, you can also customize the length and style of your creation.
Step 4. Measure your neck and then determine the length
Take a tape measure and wrap it around your neck as you look in the mirror. Try making larger and smaller circles to see which one you prefer. This way, you will get an idea of what the necklace might look like worn around the neck.
Part 2 of 3: Prepare the Design and Arrangement of the Beads
Step 1. Arrange the beads on a flat surface, such as a table or desk
Distribute them in various ways until you have found the composition that suits you best. Try out different color schemes and also consider making a jewelry made of various threads. The idea of creating a necklace to wrap around the neck several times or to wear loose could be nice.
Step 2. Place your bead board on a flat surface
The so-called "bead board" is a tool that greatly facilitates the task of stringing the beads and improves in a short time the jewelry design skill. You can use it to measure the length of the necklace and at the same time keep the small parts in place. If you intend to make several necklaces, or even just a few from time to time, then it would be advisable for you to get this tool.
- Place the beads according to the arrangement you have chosen at number zero and measure the length of the necklace using the numbers and dashes along the edges of the table.
- Use the grooves along the board to place the beads according to the composition you have chosen.
- The trays are used to keep the beads and small parts in order.
Step 3. Cut the thread to the desired length, adding 15 cm
For example, if you want to make a choker, cut 55 cm of thread (40 + 15 cm).
Step 4. Get 2 crushers, 1 clasp and the beads you need to make the necklace
In the next section you will get advice on how to thread the beads correctly.
Part 3 of 3: Making the Beaded Necklace
Step 1. Slide a bead into the wire
Next, run the mash through and then add another one about 2.5cm further down. Keep in mind that, during this phase, you are not yet reproducing on the wire the arrangement of the elements that make up your necklace. These are preliminary, but necessary, steps that will make it safer and more durable.
Step 2. Place one end of the clasp or jump ring right after the squeeze
Then form a loop with the thread.
Step 3. Feed the end of the wire through the closure
Then, add the bead-crimp combination and then, with the help of the needle nose pliers, set the bead in place.
- If you are using nylon thread, you'd better apply a drop of extra strong glue on both ends to make sure they squeeze it and the bead stays in place.
- This maneuver will prevent the thread from wearing out against the edges of the crimp, risking breaking the necklace.
Step 4. Return the arrangement of the beads to the wire
Once you are satisfied with the design you have designed, carefully take one bead at a time and introduce it into the thread. Make sure you leave about 8-10 cm of thread at the end.
Thread the beads until you have used up all the ones on your bead board
Step 5. Use part of the clasp or jump ring in conjunction with the bead-crimp combination
Thread the rest of the thread through the bead holes near the crimp.
Be careful not to pull the thread too tight. Leave some slack (2-4 mm). This will give the beads the space they need to move and turn and prevent them from being in close contact with each other, also wearing out the thread. If the latter is too tight, the necklace will be more rigid and can take a square shape rather than slightly rounded, as it should be
Step 6. Close the second end of the wire and shorten it with the wire cutters
It is not recommended to cut it too close to the squash. 2-3 centimeters should be enough, well hidden in the holes of the beads so that the necklace does not break.
