Are You Crafty?

Did you know that making jewelry is a cinch? You don’t need any special tools, metal hoops or complicated string. Stretch cord jewelry is popular and it’s easy to make. Some of it so professional looking that it can compare to store bought jewelry costing upwards of $50.
This is great thing to make for Christmas presents, gifts or even just for friends and family. Your kids will be able to easily make this jewelry and you can use this opportunity as a parent to spend quality time with your daughter.

All you need to make a stretch cord bracelet is clear stretch cord, scissors, and your choice favorite beads of varying sizes. You can also opt to get crimp beads and a pair of flat nose pliers. This adds a little bit of a finishing touch and ensures that your bracelet will not come apart. You can easily make a necklace, anklet or even ring with just these simple, affordable tools.

Many people already know how to bead, but the simplest way is to cut a piece of stretch cord about two inches more than you need and anchor one side of the cord with tape or a heavy container. Once you have done this making your choice of bracelet or necklace is up to you. If you are making this as a gift for family or friends you may want to find out their favorite colors and personalize your gift.

If you aren’t using a crimp bead to secure your bracelet or necklace, simply tie a reef knot to pull tightly to set the bracelet. You can cover the knot with clear nail polish to give it extra durability. This process is the same for necklaces and rings. If you do decide to use a crimp bead, insert the small metal tube through the string in opposite ways. When finished the metal tube has both strings in it in an X formation. Once you have done this simply clamp the pliers to the crimp bead and squeeze. The metal tube will collapse and lock the string in place.

Now go have some fun making jewelry for the whole family.