DIY Jewelry: How to Make a Three-Strand Bead Necklace

Make a fashion statement for fall with a three-strand bead necklace you made yourself. The first thing you need to do is choose your bead color and design. When working on the longest string of your necklace, break the pattern up with a bold pendent in the center. Continue on with your pattern to the end of your string of beads. Choose beads in fall color combinations such as chocolate and turquoise or red and black. Bold necklaces are a hot fall fashion trend. Make your designer necklace for the fall season.

To make your necklace you will need thin elastic, hook/eye Bali style clasp, fabric cement, scissors, ruler, yarn needle, and beads. Another option to help in designing your necklace is a bead board. It is used to string necklaces, and has places to put your tools and beads. Decide on the three-strand lengths you want for your necklace. For example: 17, 22, and 27 inches. When measuring your elastic, add on 5 inches to each piece to allow for tying. Start with your smallest elastic piece. Tie one end of the elastic to one end of the clasp by threading it through, and secure the elastic with a double knot. Tie firmly. Bead your necklace in the pattern and beads you have chosen. If it is easier, you can take a yarn needle and put the elastic through the eye of the needle, and string on your beads. When your pattern is done, take the elastic and tie to the other side of clasp with a double knot. Trim ends. Repeat this pattern with the middle length next, then the longest length last. When you are finished, put some fabric cement on the knots. This will help to seal the knots. The jewelry elastic, beads, and glue can be found at your local craft store, or at www.firemountaingems.com. To find more great gems, charms, and jewelry supplies go to www.wire-sculpture.com.

This is a great project to teach your daughter and her friends. Have a jewelry party with your girlfriends, and teach them how to make their own three-strand necklace. Serve some refreshments and snacks. Set up a table with a great selection of beads and jewelry supplies that your friends can use when designing their necklace. These necklaces also make a great gift for your child's teacher, family, and friends. They are so much fun to make, and can be made to match any outfit. Designs and patterns for this three-strand necklace are endless. Have fun wearing your masterpiece. For more information go to www.about.com.