Homemade Jewelry - How to String Beads

Now is the time to make those bangles and baubles on the glossy pages of your favorite magazine yours.

Instead of letting your eyes pop out of your head when you see the retail price of a necklace or bracelet at the bottom of the page; get inspired. You can create homemade jewelry that is just as gorgeous and trendy for a fraction of the price.

Simply select your beads and follow these easy steps to string them together for a necklace.

Step 1:
Choose a material that is the right thickness for your beads. Whether you choose leather, wire, or even elastic string you want your beads to sit comfortably on it, and your finished piece to be strong, flexible and kink resistant. There are charts available showcasing suggested matches to help your endeavor into homemade jewelry easier.

Step 2:
Create a looped end of your chosen string to hold the beads. There are several ways to do this from tying a simple knot to attaching a crimp bead or tube to one end of your string essentially creating a stopper to hold your beads. It is important to start with a string that is longer than your design will be at the finish so you have room to secure the beads on each end and add a clasp. Once you have your string ready you can layout your design on a bead board to get an idea what your finished design will look like.

Step 3:
String your bead design onto the stringing material. This is the easiest and most fun part of creating homemade jewelry for yourself and friends. Since you chose the correct string thickness for your beads, the design should lie flat and neither sag nor kink during this process.

Step 4:
Add the second loop. When you get to the last bead in your design you will need to create a second stopper and loop just like you did at the other end. You should have enough excess string to do this if you added extra inches to your design length. Simply tie a knot or slide a crimp bead or tube onto the string and pull the string through and create. The method you use depends on the stringing material you chose. Cut off the excess string and your homemade jewelry will be almost complete.

Step 5:
Complete your piece with clasps. There are many designs of clasps and closures to make your piece a breeze to wear securely. Boxes, barrels, toggles clasps are the final piece of the beading puzzle and the possibilities are as limitless as your imagination or your wallet. Of course you can always add some extra touches for a more professional look. From hiding crimps to tying elaborate knots you will surely want to learn more about beading and creating designer pieces that will last and be loved for a lifetime.

Who knew making homemade jewelry could be so easy? Simply master these steps and start making basic bangles and baubles today. You can learn more advanced techniques and beading secrets online. But be forewarned you made need a bigger jewelry box.