How to Make Friendship Bracelets Using Beads

Friendship bracelets made with beads are an easy project for children and beginning beaders. Using simple clasps that are easy to attach and fasten is the key. You only need a few simple materials to make these friendship bracelets. Any type of beads can be used, but the following materials list will give you some ideas.

Beads

Use beads with letters to spell out names. This can form the center focal point of the friendship bracelets. Use colored beads of similar shapes to form the sides of the bracelets. Plastic and glass beads are typically very inexpensive and can be found in the craft department of major department stores or craft and hobby shops.

Clasps

To make a clasp for your friendship bracelets, try using a button on one end and a simple loop on the other. This forms a toggle clasp that is very easy to implement and fasten/unfasten. Choose a decorative button with two holes.

Cord

Waxed cording found in craft stores (or departments) is best used for this type of friendship bracelets. It is durable, resistant to fraying and holds a knot securely. If you can't find waxed cording, try elastic. This material makes a stretchy bracelet that children will love.

Instructions

1.) Measure a length of cord and make sure it will fit around the wrist with several inches to spare. Decide on a pattern for the friendship bracelets using your chosen beads.

1.) String the beads onto the cord. You may want to place one end of the cord under a heavy book or other object while stringing to prevent the beads from sliding off the end. Leave a few inches on each end for the clasp and fastner.

2.) Attach the button clasp to your friendship bracelets. Run the cording through the holes in the button and secure with a double knot. Make a loop, secured with a double knot, on the opposite end.

Tips and Ideas

These friendship bracelets make a wonderful project for a child's birthday party. Buy colored and lettered beads in bulk, a package of buttons and a spool of cording. Allow children to choose their own beads and buttons and instruct them on making their own friendship bracelets.

If you don't have buttons available, or just don't want to use them, you can use a large bead instead. Use a double knot to secure large beads to the end of the friendship bracelets. Fasten with a loop just as you would a button.