An Ocean of Inspiration

Growing up in Florida, I have drawn lot of inspiration from the beach and ocean in my jewelry design work.

This Swarovski crystal bracelet was inspired by the golden sand, turquoise blue waters, and mossy green grass. I translated these colors into Swarovski Crystal and Czech glass in the following beads: Pacific Opal Swarovski Crystal, Copper Luster Czech glass drop beads, Champagne Czech glass drop beads and Luster Green Czech glass drop beads. Czech glass drop beads add a playful, yet elegant touch to the design, and the Bali sterling silver beads along with the double strand design add texture to the bracelet.

Helpful Hint: When creating a double strand bracelet using smaller beads (no larger than 6mm), you can use a single strand clasp such as the toggle used in our example. Simply crimp each strand one at a time to the clasp. If your design is quite chunky, a two strand clasp may be preferred because the larger beads tend to push on each other and the two strands will tend to splay apart more than smaller beads would. You may also consider using multi-strand spacers, however, this will add more structure to the design and it will not be as playful as two separate strands. 

How to Make a Name Bracelet

Name bracelets are very popular keepsake gifts and are often giving to babies, mothers, grandmothers and children on special occasions.

While there are many jewelry makers that can create one for you, it is easier than you think to make one yourself. This adds an even stronger personal touch to the bracelet and you can design it however you like. In addition, once you learn how to make one, you will know how to add strands, or make another when a new child a born. You will also be able to do your own repairs, or resize an existing bracelet for a growing child.

MATERIALS LIST
Sterling Silver Alphabet Beads (I prefer the ones with the rounded edges, for a more professional, finished look)
Sterling Silver Rombo Beads (these will be used in between the alphabet beads but are also great for spacers throughout the bracelet, chose the size that is closest, but smaller than your alphabet beads. Round beads can be used as well)
Flexible Beading Wire (such as Soft Flex or Flex Rite), choose any medium weight brand, you will use about 10-12" per bracelet depending on the size of the bracelet
Swarvoski Crystal Beads or Glass Beads (colors representing birth stones are often chosen, but use colors that you enjoy wearing or that will coordinate well with most of your wardrobe)
Sterling Silver Seamless Round Beads  (I generally use 2mm, 2.5mm or 3mm, however the size should be scaled and proportionate to the crystal beads that you use)
Sterling Silver Daisy Spacers - these are great for adding little details into the bracelet
Sterling Silver Crimp Beads 2x2mm (one for each end, have some extras just in case)
Sterling Silver Clasp (either a toggle clasp or lobster claw clap will work great)
Crimp Tool used to compress crimp beads and secure clasps.
Flush Cutter for cutting and trimming flexible beading wire.

Feel free to choose any other beads or charms for your design.

20% off Sterling Silver & Gold Filled Beads & Findings

Sale includes beads, findings, chain, wire, earring components, spacer bars, sterling silver alphabet beads and more!

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Pony Beads...oh the possibilities

Don't underestimate the potential of pony beads. They come in lots of colors that lend themselves to fabulous color combinations.

The availability and economy of pony beads makes them a popular choice for kids beads projects and craft projects.

Because they have larger holes than most beads, they can be strung on yarn, leather, hemp and other thicker cords. The larger holes also make them perfect for hair braiding.

Take a look at the fun color combinations that we came up with. You can create friendship bracelets with pony beads that your friends will rave about.