Bracelet making
Whether you are just starting out or already experienced, making bracelets offers endless creative possibilities. From colorful beaded bracelets to stylish designs using metal wire or cord, each technique has its own charm. With just a few basic supplies, you can get started right away and design a bracelet completely to your own taste.
How do we help you?
- Which materials and tools you need
- Basic techniques for bracelets using elastic, metal wire or cord
- How to calculate the right size and number of beads
- Tips for a neat, professional finish
- Inspiration for designing trendy bracelets
What you need
Good preparation is half the work - especially when making bracelets. With the right materials, an organized workspace and a few handy tools, bracelet making becomes much easier. Below you can read exactly what you need and what to look out for when starting to make bracelets.
Beads
Beads form the foundation of your design. They determine the style, color and overall look of your bracelet. There are many types of beads to choose from. Popular options include:
- Glass beads: available in countless colors and shapes
- Natural stone beads: a luxurious, natural look
- Acrylic beads: lightweight, affordable and vibrant colors
- Wooden beads: warm boho style with character
- Metal beads: a chic accent
Wire, cord or leather
The wire or cord you use not only determines the style, but also how flexible and strong your bracelet will be. There are different types, each with its own application:
- Elastic cord: ideal for beginners
- Metal wire: sturdy and professional, finished with a beautiful clasp
- Nylon cord: thin, strong and suitable for beads with small holes
- Waxed cord or satin cord: ideal for knotting techniques such as macramé and sliding knots
- Leather: tough and timeless
Clasps and components
The finishing touches complete your bracelet. For bracelets made with metal wire, several components are required. Popular clasps and findings include:
- Lobster clasp, toggle clasp and spring ring clasp
- Crimp beads, bead tips and wire protectors
- Jump rings or split rings
Crimp beads, covers, bead tips and wire protectors ensure a neat finish when using metal wire. Jump rings and split rings are used to attach clasps or add charms.
Tools and workspace
With the right tools and a comfortable workspace, you can work more neatly and enjoyably. These tools are essential for making bracelets:
- Wire cutters: to neatly cut wire or elastic
- Flat nose pliers: for holding and bending jump rings and components
- Beading needle: helpful for threading small beads or thin cords
- Jewelry glue: to secure knots
- Bead board: for laying out your design
- Storage boxes or trays: to keep beads and components organized
Basic bracelet making techniques
These three techniques are the most commonly used and will help you create beautiful bracelets.
Elastic bracelets
One of the easiest methods and perfect for beginners: threading beads onto elastic cord.
1. Cut a piece of elastic cord.
2. Thread your beads.
3. Leave some extra length for tying knots.
4. Tie 2–3 knots and apply a small amount of jewelry glue for extra strength.
5. Let the glue dry. Trim the ends or hide them inside a bead if possible.
Bracelets with metal wire
This technique creates a sturdier and more professional result.
1. Cut the metal wire to length, allowing extra for finishing.
2. Thread on a crimp bead and a lobster clasp.
3. Loop the wire back through the crimp bead to form a loop and crimp it tightly.
4. Cover the crimp bead with a crimp cover or bead tip.
5. Thread your beads.
6. Finish with a crimp bead and jump ring or another desired clasp.
Bracelets with cord
Perfect for a boho style or friendship bracelets. Think of materials such as waxed cord, satin cord and nylon cord.
1. Choose your cord and decide whether to add beads (check the bead hole size).
2. For knotting techniques such as macramé or sliding knots, you can follow tutorial videos.
Size calculation
A well-fitting bracelet is more comfortable to wear and looks better. That is why it is important to know how long your bracelet should be and how many beads you need.
Step 1
Measure your wrist
You can calculate the number of beads based on your wrist circumference. The average wrist circumference is 18–20 cm.
Use a measuring tape and wrap it around your wrist. For a snug fit, add about 1 cm to your wrist measurement. For a looser bracelet, add 2 cm.
Stap 2
Calculate how many beads you need
The number of beads depends on the size of the beads. Use this simple formula:
Bracelet length (in mm) ÷ bead size (in mm) = number of beads
Example: for a bracelet of 180 mm with 8 mm beads, you need approximately 22–23 beads.
Step 3
Check the proportions
Make sure the thickness of your wire matches the hole size of the bead.
Example: if the bead hole is 1 mm, use wire that is 0.8 mm or thinner.
This prevents beads from not fitting properly or the wire becoming too tight.
Finishing and clasps
A beautiful finish really makes the difference and gives your handmade bracelets a professional look.
Common finishing methods include:
- Simple knot (elastic)
- Sliding knot (cords)
- Lobster clasp (metal wire)
- Magnetic clasp (leather)
- Toggle clasp (chain bracelets)
Tips for finishing:
- Hide knots or crimp beads where possible for a cleaner look.
- Use wire protectors or bead tips with metal wire for extra durability.
- When using elastic, apply jewelry glue to the knot for extra strength.
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