Do you get excited about perfectly matching jewelry for a new outfit? This tutorial will show you how to make stretchy cord bracelets…and you can use beads to match anything in your wardrobe! Trust me, they’re easy & inexpensive too. You’ll only need to shop for beads & stretchy cord, assuming you have scissors & glue already.
Materials:
Beads, stretchy cord, scissors, glue (I’m using beading cement/glue, but you can use clear nail polish or super glue as well), and a bead stopper (optional; you could use an extra bead instead).
Instructions:
1. Cut your stretchy cord with scissors. You’ll want it to loosely wrap around your wrist, plus add 1 inch to each end.
2. Stretch the stretchy cord. Just pull it gently a few times. It’s kinda like pre-stretching. If you don’t pre-stretch, within a few times wearing the bracelet it’ll stretch out and you’ll have to redo it to make it fit.
3. Put on the bead stopper to prevent beads from falling off the cord. If you don’t have one, you could tie a knot around an extra bead.
4. String your beads onto the cord. Play with a few patterns to find something you really like. It always takes me a few times of stringing & removing beads until I’m satisfied. Wrap the beads around your wrist to evaluate whether you have enough beads or need more.
5. Remove your bead stopper or tied on bead. Tie a surgeon’s knot (here’s a YouTube video I found.)
First, hold one end of cord in each hand. Place the right end on top & pass it over & around the left end to create the first part of the knot. (FYI, this part is just a regular over hand knot.)
Next, place the left end on top, pass it over & around, and then through the loop a second time. (This is another overhand knot with an extra pass through.) You’ve made a surgeon’s knot. Now pull it as tight & close to the beads as possible.
6. Add a dab of glue or clear nail polish to the knot. Cut off the extra cord. If the beads are large enough, tuck the knot inside of a bead by pulling a bead over the knot. This will hide your knot nicely.
You’re finished! Go sport your new bracelet!
Thanks! I knew how to bead, but I have always been unsure of how to finish and hide the knot. Now I’ll be beading away!
I was just in my bead stash this morning and I’m so glad to have this tutorial! I never knew to put the glue/polish on- a very good hint. I’ll be making some bracelets for upcoming gift giving! Thanks
Thanks Colleen! This is a fun idea. I was wondering if you had any suggestions on how to keep beads organized without purchasing a plastic bin organizer at the craft store. My oldest has thousands of beads, but they always get mixed up or spilled. I appreciate your help!
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