Make a Stretch Bracelet

For this bead stringing project we've used stretchable monofilament cord, bone beads and gold filled beads to make an earthy jewelry piece that's casual and ideal for fall fashions.  Since our bracelet is going to be 7", we cut an 11" piece of Elastoma (1mm in thickness).  I typically use more string than required - use what you're used to working with.  Additionally, I'm using Elastoma because it knots well and I'll begin by tying a temporary double knot at the end of the string.  Then start stringing the dyed rondelle (the dye will not rub off these beads) followed by the 6mm gold filled round beads, followed by another rondelle and then a center drilled hairpipe bone bead.  Continue stringing the beads in this combination until you have your desired length.  Use only 6mm gold filled rounds or larger, since the Elastoma string must clear the bead hole.  In other words, the 1mm dia.cord will not fit through 4mm or smaller beads.

Once you've completed your stringing, cut two small pieces of paper and poke a hole through them with a pin. You can now float the beads to the center of the string and cut away the double knot you created to hold the beads in place while you strung.  Slide the pieces of paper on each end of the string - these paper pieces are to prevent your new knot from getting lost under the rondelles while you're trying to secure the knot.  Pick up both ends of the cord and tie a knot (you don't need to double it) and once you've created the knot, pull back the pieces of paper so that you've stretched the cord slightly and the beads are snug.  You'll want to apply a drop of fast setting glue (like crazy glue) to the knot so you need to be sure that the paper is away from the knot.  The glue will secure the knot and once it's dry, you can rip away the pieces of paper.  Your knot should not be visible - it can easily pass through the holes of the rondelles.   Don't just think jewelry for this design, this can also be made to fit around candles and the center drilled bone beads are ideal for home making decoration pieces.

 To create the design above you will need the following items

(this beading project assumes you already have pliers - if not, see our tools section)