subject: Make Your Own Handcrafted Bead Jewelry [print this page] building your own ornaments will keep you away from expensive and trendy jewelry stores that will surely charge you a bundle.
The following is a quick guide to help you create attractive handmade jewelry from the confines of your own home:
Pick your beads. Ready-made beads are available from any bead or craft store. They generally come in glass, crystal, precious metal, plastic, gems, and wood. For the super-artsy types, beads can be made using clay, paper, or any other materials around the house that can be rolled into a small ball.
Make a lay out of the design for your necklace or bracelet (or anklet) on a hard surface. This should be done on a table or countertop. Flimsy surfaces will make it nearly impossible to keep the design sturdy.
Cut your bead wire. This can be done with anything from a string to a thin metal wire, However, the best choice would be a soft-flex wire. Be sure to cut it at least 5 inches longer than you want the actual necklace to be. As a frame of reference, shorter necklaces tend to be about 20 inches long, while longer pieces may stretch up to 25 inches or greater.
Fasten one end of clasp to the end of the wire, then slide on a crimp bead. Slide the end of the wire back through the crimp bead to assure that the necklace will stay together.
Slide the beads you chose on to the wire. Be mindful of the pattern you created, as a small mistake will force you to start from the beginning.
After the final bead is attached, slide on the final crimp bead and clasp piece. Pull the end of the wire back through the crimp bead and tighten to assure there is no space between the beads and the necklace is snug. Crimp the bead and cut off any extra wire that is hanging.
Creating your own necklace or bracelet can be a fulfilling experience for crafty and non-crafty people alike. Wear your handcrafted beaded jewelry with pride knowing that you are the artist behind the piece.
