Working with Silk Cording

Introduction

In Better Beader Episode 28, Allie and Katelyn explore the versatile world of silk cording. This luxurious material adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any jewelry design. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to create a stunning necklace using silk cording, based on the techniques shared in the episode.

Materials Needed

• Silk cording (1mm or 1.5mm thickness)
• Beads of your choice (e.g., 6mm round beads, 8mm round beads, 11/0 seed beads)
• Bead caps (optional)
• Clasp (e.g., lobster claw clasp)
• Crimp beads (2mm)
• Crimp covers (3mm)
• Jump rings
• Chain nose pliers
• Crimping pliers
• Scissors

Step-by-Step Tutorial

1. Cut a length of silk cording, allowing extra length for attaching the clasp and making any adjustments.
2. String your desired beads onto the silk cording, creating a pattern that suits your style. Consider incorporating bead caps for added visual interest.
3. Once you've achieved your desired design, it's time to attach the clasp:
   • String a crimp bead onto one end of the cording, followed by the clasp or a jump ring.
   • Pass the cording back through the crimp bead, forming a loop.
   • Use crimping pliers to securely flatten the crimp bead, ensuring the loop is tight.
   • Cover the crimp bead with a crimp cover for a polished look.
4. Repeat the clasp attachment process on the other end of the necklace.
5. Trim any excess cording, leaving a small tail to prevent unraveling.

Tip: When working with silk cording, be gentle to avoid fraying or damaging the delicate material.

Customization Ideas & Inspiration

The beauty of working with silk cording lies in its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize your necklace:

• Experiment with different colors of silk cording to match your beads or create a contrasting look.
• Mix and match bead sizes, shapes, and colors to create a unique pattern.
• Incorporate charms or pendants for a personalized touch.
• Create a multi-strand necklace by using multiple lengths of silk cording and attaching them to a single clasp.

Conclusion

Creating a stunning necklace with silk cording is a simple yet rewarding project. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking inspiration from Better Beader Episode 28, you'll be able to craft a beautiful piece of jewelry that showcases your personal style. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your designs!

If you enjoyed this project, be sure to check out other episodes of Better Beader for more beading inspiration and techniques. Happy beading!