How to Make Bracelets With Beads & String

They can add a colorful splash of color to any outfit because they come in a wide variety of different colors. These bracelets are easy to make. The materials and the beads are readily available are easy to work with. Plus, there are a variety of tips that you can put to use to endure that these bracelets last and are durable.

How to Make Bracelets With Beads & String

Your first area of focus should rest on the type of stretch cord you plan on using. Make this choice based on the size and weight of the beads you will be using. Larger heavier beads require a thick strong stretch cord. Smaller beads will work well with a thin cord if the beads themselves are light as well. 

The average thickness of the most commonly used stretch cord is .7 mm to 1 mm. Choose a colored cord that will blend well with the colored beads you choose. Many people choose a clear cord to avoid trying to match the beads. However, a clear cord can stand out more than the colored cord sometimes. This is why some people choose a complimentary colored cord as a less noticeable option.

Helpful Tips

Carefully choose the elastic cord you plan on using. In addition to paying attention to the weight and the size of the beads, you should also pay attention to the size of the hole in the beads. For example, seed beads have extremely small holes which means that the commonly used .7 mm to 1 mm is not a good choice for this type of bead because the cord is too large to fit through the hole. This has nothing to do with the size or weight of the beads. However, the thinner cord is suggested because of the small hole size characteristic of seed beads. Don’t lose sight of the need to pair the proper cord size with beads that aren’t too heavy. 

If you choose beads that are too heavy for the elastic cord, they will stretch the bracelet out quickly, causing it to lose its shape and possibly break. you can always use a double cord to create more strength and durability if needed. You just have to make sure that the hole in the bead is larger enough to accommodate the thickness of two cords. 

Another area that deserves attention is the use of crimp beads with elastic cord. This is a no-no. Crimp beads are made of metal and can easily cut through the elastic cord. If you plan on using crimp beads it is a good idea to use another type of cord that will hold up against the metal crimp beads. Some people use a braided rope as well as other types of durable cord.

The First Steps

Decide how large you want the bracelet to be and cut the cord according to this size. Be sure to add three inches to tie the bracelet at the end. Three inches should be left on each end to have enough room to make the knots to secure the bracelet. Before you start beading, stretch your elastic cord to give the bracelet the desired shape you’re seeking. 

This will help your bracelet to retain the desired shape you want to create. As you start to add your beads to the elastic cord you can keep the cord attached to the spool or use a bead stopper to keep the beads from sliding off. Once you’ve added all of your beads, make a surgeon’s knot to secure the beads and finish the bracelet. A surgeon’s know ensures that the knot won’t loosen causing the bracelet to break.

The Surgeons Knot

A surgeon’s knot is a square knot. It’s also referred to as a reef’s knot. This knot has an extra loop that keeps the elastic cord from loosening. This method also makes it possible to add a loop on top for added security. This might be a good idea if you’ve made a bracelet with large beads. The extra’s security of an additional loop will keep the knots from slipping.

Bead Size vs. Bracelet Size

Keep in mind that the size of the beads you select will impact the overall size of your bracelet. For example, if you use seven inches of cord paired with large beads, the bracelet will be smaller because the size of the beads will take up wrist space. 

Conversely, if you use 7 inches of elastic cord with small beads your bracelet will be larger because the beads will take up significantly less space than larger beads would. Tale this into consideration when making your bracelet and adjust the amount of cord you use to create the size you want. Larger beads will require more cord, and smaller beads might require less cord depending on how large you want the bracelet to be.

Finishing Touches

Once you’ve completed your bracelet, make sure that your knots have been tied firmly. This is to prevent slippage. You may also want to put super glue on the knot as reinforcement or jewelry glue. This is another way of creating more durability and preventing the bracelet from breaking. You can give your bracelet a more finished look by covering the knots. 

You might consider adding small beading or some other type of decoration to the bracelet that will overlap the knots and cover them. The way you handle your bracelet will increase its durability. Avoid stretching your bracelet when you put it on. Gently roll it over your hand without stretching it any more than you need to. It’s also a good idea to avoid perfumes, soaps, and other products that could erode your bracelet over time. These products make the elastic weak after continued exposure.

Get All the Beads and Tassels You Need to Create Beautiful Jewelry

Bead and string bracelets are a fun popular form of jewelry that continues to be in style. These types of bracelets are easy to make at home. It just takes the right kind of stretch cord, beads that complement the cord, and a few savvy tips to make durable long-lasting beaded bracelets. At Woman Shops World, we carry all of the beads and supplies you will need to create a beautiful bracelet that will stand the test of time.