How to Make a Draped Chain Beaded Armlet

If you love unconventional head-turning jewelry, you’ll want to pull out your “To Do” list. Today, I’ll show you how to use basic jewelry techniques to create an exceptionally unique armlet. Much like a bracelet, an armlet is a piece of jewelry designed to adorn your upper arm. I adore the whimsical vibe it gives off. Here’s how to make it!

DRAPED CHAIN BEADED ARMLET SUPPLIES:

• Darice Stretchy Cord
• Darice Chain
• Darice 8mm Glass Bead Strands (4 strands)
• Darice 3 in 1 Pliers with Cutter
• Darice Craft Scissors
• Clear Nail Polish (optional)

The finished project consists of three separate arm bands that are worn together. If you prefer simplicity, feel free to wear one by itself.

Step one. Cut a strand of stretch cord measuring 1 & 1/2 times your upper arm measurement. Wrap the cord around your upper arm to ensure that you have the correct length.

Step two. Tie a tight double knot and add enough beads to wrap around your arm.

Step three. Tightly tie the ends of the cord together.

Step four. For extra security, add a few dots of clear nail polish to the knot. Let dry.

Step Five. Trim away the extra cord. This completes one beaded arm band.

Step six. Repeat Steps 1-5 to make a second arm band.

Step seven. For the third arm band, cut a strand of cord and tie a tight knot. Add beads to first 1/3 of the cord.

Step eight. Using the jewelry pliers, cut two strands of chain measuring 2-3 inches each. Make sure the chains are the same exact length.

Step nine. Add one strand of chain to the cord, followed by four beads.

Step ten. Insert the cord through the end of the chain. This creates a draped effect.

Step ten. Add four more beads.

Step eleven. Insert the cord through the end of the chain.

Step twelve. Add beads to fill up the last third of the arm band.

Wear all three arm bands together, saving the draped chain one for the bottom. I’m loving the way it falls when worn. Enjoy!

Kirsten Nunez

Kirsten is a lifestyle writer and craft book author focusing on DIY, food, health, and creativity. Since 2010, she has been sharing DIY projects at WildAmor.com (formerly Studs & Pearls). In May 2014, Kirsten published her first book, Studs & Pearls: 30 Creative Projects for Customized Fashion; you can find it at Barnes & Noble, Amazon & select independent bookstores. She spends most of her time writing, crafting, traveling, and dreaming up new recipe ideas. Kirsten is a born and raised New Yorker currently living in the Bay Area of California.

http://wildamor.com/