Beads by Mail Easy Instructions for a Bead Bracelet

Easy Single Strand Bracelet Kit, No Tools Needed!

We found a very strong thin elastic cord that you can use to string any bead except freshwater pearls.

Just follow the simple instructions and wear your bracelet 5 minutes later!

One yard of elastic cord is enough for 3 bracelets. The cord is $1.50 per yard. You don't need a clasp.

Just take a stroll through our catalog and choose your beads.

single strand bracelet, lapis

Drawings enlarged to show detail.

The key is to string enough beads so that they will lie flat next to eachother with no space showing.

Measure your wrist. Multiply the number of inches by 25, to get the total millimeters. Then divide the total by 6, 8, 10, or 12, depending on what (millimeter) size bead you are using. In the kit we ship 6mm beads so the following example shows how to determine the number of beads you need.
Example: for a 6.5-inch wrist, multiply by 25 to get 162.5. Divide by 6 to get 42. So you need 42 6mm beads for the bracelet.
Cut a 12-inch length of elastic cord. String the beads. If the cord frays at one end, string from the other end. Or snip the cord diagonally at the very end to make another point on the end.
Tie the cord ends in a double knot but do not tighten. Try on the bracelet to make sure it fits over your hand and looks well on your wrist. Add or subtract beads to make it fit.
If the size is good and the beads lie flat on your wrist, tighten the knot. ie a couple more for security. Then dab a small amount of jewelers' glue, quick-drying craft glue, or clear nail polish on the knot. Let dry.
Clip the ends close to the knot, leaving just enough so that the ends won't pull out, about 1/2". Dab glue on the cord ends. Let dry. Enjoy!
Note: If you want to add security to the cord ends, leave extra cord after stringing. Then weave the ends back and forth over the last bead while tying more knots.