Today’s project is an easy little mixed media piece that you can make up in about 10 minutes. (I LOVE ten-minute projects!)
It’s also a great stash-buster since you need small quantities of things – so if you have a few beads leftover from other projects, it’s a great way to turn just a few into something pretty!
What you will need:
- A few inches of chain. This will really depend on a couple of factors: the size of your wrist, the length of your clasp, and how many beads you plan to use. The brilliance of mixed media is that you can use up what you have, but if you plan to buy new to make this project, the easiest method is to pick up a bracelet-sized chain with a clasp already attached.
- A clasp (if it’s not already attached to your chain)
- Heavy-gauge wire (I like 18 gauge for projects like this)
- Beads you love – how many you want is up to you, but probably around 1-2 inches worth
- Wire cutters
- Jewelry pliers (round-nosed work best for this project)
Decide how many beads you want to use. You will want to choose a length that is slightly less than the top of your wrist. Cut a length of wire about an inch longer than what you’re planning. I know I’m not being precise here – but you really do have a lot of flexibility to go bigger, smaller, whatever you like! :)
Use your pliers to make a loop on one end of your wire.
Now, thread your beads on, and close the other end just the same way. If you have a little excess, you can cut it off.
Now, if you are using an actual link bracelet here, you will want to remove a length that is about the same as your bead bar that you just made. If you are using (or re-using!) chain, you will have to estimate what you need here. A bracelet is generally 7 or 8 inches. If you made a 2-inch bead bar, you’ll need between 5-6 inches of chain, cut into 2 equal lengths to go on either side of your beads.
Open the wire loops you made on your bead bar just enough to loop onto the ends of your chain. If necessary, attach your clasp as well so that you have a complete bracelet.
That’s it! Now, initially, I thought I could attach both bars of beads onto the same bracelet. Yeah, that didn’t work. ;) (Hey, not all my ideas are winners, LOL!) So that is why all the bead shots are together in the photos. But it was a quick fix to make up a second bracelet – I just scavenged some chunky chain leftover from a previous project. The two bracelets have a totally different look with the same method, but they can certainly be worn stacked!
These would look sweet tucked into an Easter basket if you have girls around that age! And the best part is, by making it yourself, you can adjust the length to fit even young ladies. :)
I really enjoyed watching this DYI project. Thanks for sharing.
cant wait to make some of these.thank you ,beautiful
Just came upon your beautiful birthstone tree last night…btw…I really have enjoyed reading, seeing some of your other ideas and directions….now please help…maybe I missed the directions on the tree…the wire, rock, height ..im good….but to make the branches.. I need help!! Please
I made a sample, it turned out shelf worthy..yea!! How many wires would I pull for a branch? AND. about supplies…what do you think I would need (quanity) of stones I would need per tree…any suggestions on buying supplies..we have holly hobbie and Micheals in another town..supplies I used were left overs from Walmart..& here & there…again, as a beginner Im excited about doing many of your items….recently retired with time now
Love, love, love! So cute! :)
I love all your tutorials! You are a very talented lady. Thank you for being you!!
Adrianne – you have inspired me to get out my jewelry making stuff again after a long break :) Thank you!
Saw these on FB the other day and WOW are they pretty! you take some great pix!!!
This is just super cute! I wish I had better luck at jewelry but with the fibro my hands get stiff and achy and it just doesn’t happen. I suppose that’s a good thing though as it means I can buy from other crafty folks!
Very pretty, Adrianne!
I really like this project because I often buy just a few beads especially if they are expensive ones or quirky in a good way beads (like pineapples LOL!). So this is a good project to use up those beads so they are actually seen and worn! Posted two finished photos of your bracelet(s) and a link back to you on my blog. Thanks so much for posting such good DIYs!
Adrianne, these bracelets are beautiful!
Really beautiful bracelet :)
I’d love to wear it
I love your bracelet tutorials, I really am getting supplies and doing this. Maybe my girls would enjoy learning with me.
I seriously want to get into jewelry-making but haven’t had the guts (or the time, really) to tackle another hobby. This looks easy enough, though, that I may have to bite the bullet! Very pretty :)