BBJ – the source for jewelry making, beading, and metal work: instructions, education and projects from leading jewelry designers, and instructors. The online home of the public television program.
Everyone loves stretchy bracelets! Here are a few tips for making your own:
Choose the diameter of the cord based on the bead hole size. The cord should pass comfortably through the bead holes.
A standard length for stretchy bracelets is 7-1/2".
Work with a length of cord off that's 2-3" longer than the desired length of the bracelet.
Either leave the cord on the spool or place a stopper bead or a small piece of tape over the end of the cord to prevent the beads from sliding off the end.
Once you've strung all of your beads, pull the ends taught and tie them in a surgeon's knot. A surgeon’s knot is similar to a square knot but you place the cord end through the loop twice.
Place a drop of jeweler's cement on the knot. If possible, tuck the knot inside the nearest bead for extra security.