Beaded Chain Bracelet

I really like this bracelet! The thick chains against the teeny little beads gives a really nice contrast.

I originally set out to find a way to braid the beads in the middle, but I didn't have the right tools! I think I'm going to need to get some thin wire to make that happen. :D

Step 1: What You'll Need:

• upholstery thread OR two strands of embroidery floss
• seed beads (I used sizes 10/0 and 11/0)
• a needle small enough to pass through the beads
• chain
• jump rings
• closures
• pliers
• measuring tape or a ruler

This is the first time i have ever worked with beads. I had no idea what I was doing. I originally tried to use nylon quilting thread, and that turned into a big mess. Thread by itself did not produce a big enough knot to keep the beads in place. 

And this is why I am using two strands of embroidery floss. Gotta work with what you have :D

Step 2: Measuring + Planning

You'll need to decide how long to make the chain part and how long to make the beaded part now. :)

My wrist is six inches around, and I wanted to beads to cover the top of my wrist, so I went with 2.5 inches of beading and then four inches of chain, divided in half. 

Step 3: Beading

Take two strands of embroidery floss (at least double the length of what you want the finished piece to be) and thread them through a needle. Tie a large knot a couple inches from the other end.

Use the needle to pick up the beads and then push them to the knot in the thread. Keep doing this until you reach the length you want. Mine was 2.5 inches. :)

Once you reach that length, bring the needle up through the top bead on the strand. (as shown in the third photo) This will help secure the beads in place. Then knot the strands of floss together. Do not trim the ends of the floss! You want the floss to stay long on both ends to help you with the next step.

Keep beading until you've got the number of strands you want.

Step 4: Tying

Take all of your strands of beads (that should all be the same length!) and tie the strings on the ends together. Try to get the knot as close to the beads as possible. You can secure this will a little glue if you're nervous. :)

Then snip off the excess thread.

Step 5: Assembling

Attach a jump ring below the knot on each end of the beads and then attach the chain to that.

Attach a jump ring to one end of the bracelet, and a jump ring and a closure to the other one. :D

You're done!