Lengthing your jewelry

Introduction

Incorporating leather into your beaded jewelry designs can add a unique and stylish touch. In this Better Beader episode from Potomac Beads, we'll show you how to create a beautiful bracelet using small hole beads and leather cord. This technique is perfect for those turquoise or aquamarine beads that have tiny holes, making it difficult to string them on thicker cords. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to create a stunning piece that combines the elegance of beads with the rustic charm of leather.

Materials Needed

• Small hole beads of your choice (e.g., turquoise, aquamarine)
• Beading wire (7, 19, or 49 strand)
• Leather or cotton cord (approximately 1 foot per bracelet)
• Button or clasp of your choice
• Crimp beads
• Seed beads (optional, for decorating the button)
• Scissors
• Pliers (crimping pliers optional)

Step-by-Step Tutorial

1. Begin by creating a simple beaded bracelet using your small hole beads and beading wire, as you normally would.
2. Once you've reached the desired length, string on one crimp bead, leaving a small space at the end of the beadwork.
3. Cut a piece of leather cord, approximately 1 foot long. Fold the cord in half, so the cut ends meet.
4. Take the wire around the center of the folded leather cord, creating a loop. Pass the wire back through the crimp bead and a few beads to hide the cut edge.
5. Adjust the leather cord so it can move freely through the wire loop without being too visible. Crimp the bead using pliers or crimping pliers, and trim any excess wire.
6. Tie an overhand knot in the leather cord, positioning it over the crimp bead to conceal it. Pull each strand of the leather cord to tighten the knot.
7. On the other end of the bracelet, add another crimp bead and your chosen button or clasp. If desired, add seed beads on top of the button for a decorative touch.
8. Pass the wire back through the crimp bead and a few beads, then crimp it using pliers or crimping pliers. Trim any excess wire.
9. Tie an overhand knot in the leather cord, leaving enough space to create a loop that fits over the button. Make sure both strands of the leather cord are even.
10. If desired, create additional knots in the leather cord to form an adjustable closure or to incorporate more of the leather into the bracelet design.
11. Trim any excess leather cord, and secure the ends with a dab of glue or clear nail polish to prevent fraying.

Customization Ideas & Inspiration

This leather and small hole bead bracelet can be easily customized to suit your personal style. Experiment with different colors and types of beads, or try using various shades of leather cord for a unique look. You can also adjust the amount of leather incorporated into the design, either keeping it minimal as a clasp accent or making it a central focus of the bracelet.

For a fun and practical twist, consider creating multiple knots in the leather cord to form an adjustable closure. This allows the bracelet to fit a range of wrist sizes, making it a great gift idea for friends and family.

Conclusion

By following this step-by-step guide, you now have the skills to create a stunning bracelet that combines the beauty of small hole beads with the rustic charm of leather. Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and designs to make this project uniquely yours. We'd love to see your creations, so feel free to share them with us or ask any questions you may have in the comments below.

For more inspiring beading projects and techniques, be sure to check out other Better Beader episodes from Potomac Beads. Happy beading!