Warm weather is returning, and I can't help but start thinking about my summer stack. Of bracelets, that is. Aren't you excited about sandal-wearing sunny days and sitting-by-the-pool Saturdays? To get my arm party ready for summer, I updated my friendship bracelets with a bit of glam from a few antique jewels. Go ahead and put a bright red pedicure and an evening of bracelet making on your to do list for summer.
Here's what you'll need for to make your own jeweled macrame bracelet:
- Natural braiding cord. You can get this at any craft store or at Wal-Mart.
- Two small jump rings for each bracelet. Mine were about 4mm.
- Antique jewels with two loops purchased here.
Step 1: Attach a small jump ring to each of the loops on the jewel.
Step 2: Cut four pieces of cord: two 40-inch long pieces (the outer working cord) and two 15-inch pieces (the base cord).
Step 3: Thread one 40-inch cord and one 15-inch cord through one jump ring. Keeping the longer working cord on the outside, pull the 15-inch base cord taut in the center and tape it down.
Step 4: Now braid a square knot. Cross the left strand over the base strands. Then cross the right strand over top of the left strand. Pass the right strand under the center strands and up through the loop. Pull the cord tight, keeping the base strands straight.
Step 5: Tie the same knot, starting on the right side. Cross the right strand over the base strands. Then cross the left strand over top of the right strand. Pass the left strand under the center strands and up through the loop. Pull tight.
Step 6: Keep alternating the knots until the bracelet reaches halfway around your wrist. Repeat on the other side of the bracelet.
Step 7: To make the closure, knot all four strands on one side of the bracelet and cut the ends. On the other side, make a small loop with the middle base cords and knot. Knot the outer cords and snip the ends. Dab a bit of glue on the ends if you want.
Channeling your inner 13-year-old is highly recommended because braiding these is incredibly soothing. An evening session of bracelet making and Real Housewives is better than Prozac.
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