The simplest guide on how to make gemstone bead bracelets

Hello BeadsVenturers! Are you new to jewelry making? Do you feel overwhelmed when you are looking at all kinds of jewelry supplies and do not know where to begin?! Making jewelry can be as complicated or as simple as you make it! In this blog post, I am sharing with you how I have been making bracelets. As a jewelry designer and maker myself (you can read about how BeadsVenture started and how I like to design and process BeadsVenture products), I always want to learn the basics and then develop my unique way to improve the process. 

My goal for making a bracelet is simple. I want to make bracelets that:

1. Last for a long time.
2. It takes a few minutes (or less) to make.
3. It only needs a few supplies.
4. I can sell to friends, family, or even to customers.

With this super simple tutorial, you will learn how to achieve all of these four goals above! 

The Simplest Guide on How to Make Gemstone Bead Bracelets

The Jewelry Supply list for making gemstone beaded bracelets

1. Your favorite beads (gemstones, glass beads, or even wood beads). 

You can also mix them with different material and sizes however you want to. At BeadsVenture, we are total gemstone junkies, so we picked a couple of our all natural gemstones to start with: 8mm round amethyst and 8mm round rose quartz.

2. Elastic cord.

It is important that you use elastic cord that will go back to its original shape after stretch. We use 0.8mm NinjaCord, since most of our 8mm beads will fit through 0.7mm NinjaCord and 0.8mm Ninjacord. 

3. Scissors. To cut the cord.

We only used these three items above to make an elastic bracelet, but you can use a beading board to plan out your jewelry designs and some tape in order to secure the elastic ends. You can also use jewelry glue for extra security. 

We only used these three items above to make an elastic bracelet, but you can use a beading board to plan out your jewelry designs and some tape to secure the elastic ends. You can also use jewelry glue for extra security. I like to plan the patterns in my head and execute.

How to make gemstone beaded bracelets

Now let's get started!

1. Measure your bracelet size.

If you are making the bracelet for yourself, wrap the elastic around your wrist and add 0.5 - 1 inches for a better fit. If you are making jewelry for a friend and do not know their sizes, consider checking out this post for approximate sizing. Then add another 6-7 inches for an easier knot. So if your wrist is 6.5 inches, cut 12 inches cords.

2. Design and string your beads.

 You do not need needles to thread the beads. Use your imagination and bead away! Are you looking for inspiration? Join our Handmade Jewelry Business Owners Facebook group to see our jewelry creations and connect with other small jewelry business owners! 

3. Stretch the cord. 

After all the beads are strung, slightly stretch the cord to make the bracelets last longer and not have any gaps between beads. 

4. Make the knot

We strongly recommend using a surgeon's knot (square knot or the granny knot are also great options).

5. Hide the knot. 

Tuck the knot under the nearest bead. For extra security, dab a dot of jewelry glue inside of the bead if you want to.

Conclusion

We are all finished! Now you can wear your first piece of your own and show it off to your friends! This tutorial is simple and yet fast. You can also add some charms, spacers, or tassels for a more trendy and personalized look.