by Keira Everlyn

Created on: July 15, 2010

One of the greatest moments to call bragging rights is when your friend says, "That necklace is so cute! Where did you get it?" Homemade jewelry is fun, and while it requires some effort for the difficult projects, it's worth your while. It's far cheaper then what you find at stores, and sometimes even better because you decide on the style and colors. Not only that, but if you become talented at it, you can even start a business! This article is to explain how to make a simple beaded necklace.

First, you'll need to pick up supplies. Craft stores such as Michaels have an abundance of jewerly tools and beads. You can also search the internet for different things. You will need wire, I recommend not picking the cheapest one because, out of experience, I know it often breaks. You will also need wire cutters, and a crimping tool. Sometimes, you can get a two in one tool, that has both these features. You will also need clasps, the style is up to you. Along with that you'll need jump rings and crimp beads. Then after you have all the supplies, the fun part comes to buying beads. Get what you want, because its up to you!

After you've picked up your supples, it's time to begin the necklace. First, cut yourself a piece of wire. It depends how long you want your necklace to be, but measure that, and add on a couple inches. Then, get a clasp and crimp bead ready. String the crimp bead on, and then the clasp. Loop the wire over the clasp and through the crimp bead. Pull the crimp bead back, so theres less of a wire loop that has the clasp on in. Then, using your crimping tool, flatten the crimp bead until it doesn't move and wont release the wire.

Once you're done with that, it's time to begin beading! Be creative and create the necklace however you want it. You can use one of two colors, seed beads, or large beads. It's in your hands, literally.

And lastly, once your done with beading it's time to finish the necklace. Get another crimp bead and string it on. Depending on what type of clasp you used, you'll either need a jump ring or the other part of the clasp. Either way, it's the same as before, loop the wire back into the crimp bead and flatten it. The excess wire hanging out of the crimp bead you can push into the beads. Now, the last thing to do is try it on!

Learn more about this author, Keira Everlyn.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.