How to Make an Anklet

Definition Of Anklet: a piece of jewelry worn around the ankle.

This leaves a lot of freedom to decide what to make and wear. The first step in designing a piece of jewelry is to consider what you want it to say. Is it going to be sexy or playful? Is it being worn by an adult or a child? Is it going to convey sophistication or grunge? Is it funky or classy? The answer to these questions and more will decide what type of jewelry or in this case anklet that will be made.

There are several ways to make an anklet. First you must decide what color and style you want to have. Most anklets will run anywhere from 9 to 12 inches long. The anklet will need enough beads to fill that length. The easiest way to calculate how many beads are needed is to place a ruler on the table and line the beads up along the length. Save room for the clasp.

Once you have the beads are gathered, then the next step is to look at stringing options. There are a few different ways to string your beads. First, there are elastic cords. This is one of the simplest options when making an anklet. The cord is tied onto the clasp in a double knot and a spot of glue is placed on the knot. Then string the beads onto the cord. After that, tie the other end of the cord to the other side of the clasp and glue knot. Done!! This one can even be done without a clasp as long as the cord will stretch enough to go over your foot. This design is great for crafting with children.

The second way to string your beads is with beading thread or string. This is much more versatile than elastic cord. There are a variety of different types of string or thread and they come in a variety of textures. Silk, satin, leather, nylon and rayon are just a few of the choices to pursue. With string or thread, you use the same directions as above only you will be able to run the thread through the bead multiple times. This means you can make a variety of designs other than just a straight length of beads.

The third way to string your beads is with wire. Wire is an exacting method as you will need additional skills and tools. Wire gives your anklet a strength that cannot be found with string, thread or cords. This is also one of the intermediate level skills in crafting jewelry of any type. It is up to the person making the jewelry to decide what is to be made and no two designers are going to make the same piece of jewelry. Have fun, get wacky, and wear your art!