Tutorial: DIY Chunky Bead Necklace for Girls

Last fall, before the BEE Merry & Bright photo shoot, I made the girls some chunky bead necklaces to wear -
They were SO cute! I just love the whimsical look of the chunky beads; perfect for my silly little fashionistas!
My girls have quite a few of these fun necklaces in their jewelry boxes and just love them!

Want to make one to add to your little queen bee’s Easter Basket?
Here’s the scoop…



Supplies:
Stretch Magic Cord (1mm)
Chunky Beads - The beads shown here are 16mm acrylic beads, but 20mm beads look AWESOME too!
1 yard of Ribbon (5/8 or 7/8 wide)
2 toggle clasps OR jump rings
Scissors
Glue Gun/Glue


Prep Work:
Step 1. Cut one piece of stretch cord and tie one end of the cut piece to one of the toggle clasps, top the knot with a dab of glue.

The length of your cord piece will depend on the style necklace you would like to make.
For a full beaded look, I cut my cord 18 inches. For a partially beaded look, I cut my cord 13 inches.
My girls wear sizes 3t – 5 and these necklaces fit them both perfectly. Please adjust the measurements to best fit your little lady.

{Version 1 – A full beaded necklace}	{Version 2 – A partially beaded necklace}

Step 2. Before assembling your necklace, separate your beads and arrange them in a pattern that appeals to you.

Instructions:

String the beads onto the piece of stretch cord that you prepared in step 1, stopping when you have 1/2 inch of cord left. Tie the loose end of your cord onto the remaining toggle clasp, top the knot with a dab of glue.


Cut two 18 inch pieces of grosgrain ribbon (finish the cut edges) and tie one piece to each toggle clasp.

Secure each knot with a dot of glue. Trim to desired length.


Give to your little queen bee and be ready to see her squeal with excitement over her new ultra-glam necklace!

{All beads shown here– including the chunky “diamond” pendants – were bought at Hobby Lobby}