Very Basic Beading/Jewellery

I am haphazardly working on projects, and have just replaced my soldering iron, so I should have more to show soon. In the meantime I'm occupying myself with little things that I should already know. Like stringing some beads on some string. This is useful knowledge.


The first method to do this is simply wrapping a length of waxed cotton cord around an item (in the middle of the length of cord). Then passing the two tails through a single bead and knotting them so they don't fall back through. It is really simple, and works well. Except that the cord needs to be long enough to go over your head. And the bead needs to have a wide enough hole to fit the two widths of cord.

Simple single bead necklace fastening
Photo by chebe

To get a shorter necklace the length needs to be adjustable (or to open). Doing this is also really simple, once you've done it once. Take a length of cord in a circle, overlap the ends. Place one of the ends under the cord parallel to it, and then do an overhand (aka regular) knot to itself. Repeat for other tail. (Try it, it makes sense once you see it.) Now it can be long enough to go over your head, and tight enough for a choker style necklace. (And you can use thick nylon cord without having to worry about fitting through any beads.)

Adjustable double-overhand necklace fastening
Medallion by Coral Mallow
Photo by chebe

Next I have to acquire some crimp beads, spiral clasps, and other such fun findings. At least now I can wear my pretties.