Tips & Techniques
Get tips and techniques to become a better beader at Lima Beads.
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on “DIY Enamel Tile Bead Stretch Bracelets”:“I am talking about the enamel. beads…” read »
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“How do you bury the knots when using all small beads? Daisy…” read »
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“I agree -- E6000 is the absolute best!…” read »
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on “Adding a Focal to Patricia Healey Chain”:“Absolutely Gorgeous! I can't wait to use this!…” read »
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on “Make a Stretch Bracelet”:“Love the instructions, but which stretch cord are you using? I don't see one like it…” read »
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on “Using Colourful Soul Jewelry Pop-Outs & Ultimate Paints”:“Vintaj came out with this line in July. I am glad to see LB is selling…” read »
on “Using Colourful Soul Jewelry Pop-Outs & Ultimate Paints”:“*Squeaks with excitement* …” read »
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“You carry the most beautiful beads, bar none. I tie a surgeon’s knot for more security,…” read »
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on “Using a Hand Punch”:“Can I use it to open holes in Saint medals???…” read »
on “Using a Leather Cord Crimp End”:“A good starting point for necklaces would be 2mm(ideal for .5"-1.5" pendants). For larger pendants(1.5"+) 3,…” read »
on “Using a Crimp Cover”:“To cover a sz 2 crimp tube, 4mm would be ideal. 3mm would fit, but it…” read »
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- on “Make a Stretch Bracelet”:
“Excellent tutorial and superb photos. Cute bracelet!…” read »
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on “Crystal Clay”:“Tried to be good…” read »
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- on “String a Guru Bead on a Mala Necklace”:
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“thank you. I've always wanted to try this…” read »
on “DIY Enamel Tile Bead Stretch Bracelets”:“I made one bracelet for my granddaughter and one for myself. They are easy and…” read »
on “How to make a paper bead”:“Interesting that paper beads are "in" again... Nearly 50 years ago, crafters (including my grandma) were…” read »
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- on “Using the Square Knot”:
“Perfect illustration and instruction for a knot-challenged brain …” read »
on “DIY Enamel Tile Bead Stretch Bracelets”:“These look like fun to make bracelets, and even more fun to wear.…” read »
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on “The Simple Wire Bracelet”:“Nice tutorial. For me, I would need more visual. The camera needs to be closer…” read »
About this Tip:
Here's a basic bracelet type: knotting beads into leather cord. It can be dressy or rustic depending on the charms you choose. Learn a few tips on how to make this classic piece.
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Simple Knotted Leather Cord Bracelet
Components:
The products featured in this tip are listed below.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Step 1: Make your measurements & pick your beads! Important Bracelet Measurements Tying an overhand knot requires 4" of leather (the knot consumes 1", the other 3" lend cord to tie) Creating the looped end with an overhand knot requires 8" I usually want 2.5'-3' to use for my wrist and so that's about what I've cut for this project. |
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Step 2: Attach the closing button (ours has a shank/loop on the back). We're using a leather loop and button as the clasp for this bracelet. String on the button and then tie it in with an overhand knot. (This requires about 8" of leather, from one end of your cord). When tightening the knot, be sure to pull the knot down to the desired place to tighten rather than pulling opposite ends of the cord-- this stress could cause our natural leather cord to snap :-( We'll be using the overhand knot throughout this project. It's kind of the same sort of knot you'd use when starting to tie your shoelaces. Also known (to me) as a pretzel knot. |
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Step 3: String the beads you've chosen! If you run into some "tough cookies" it may be the result of the bead's hole tapering at one end or another. This can make things a little challenging, but just calmly pull that bead down the cord-- straight and consistent. Also, I often cut the end of my leather cord on an extreme bias (diagonal) so it can act almost like a needle's point when stringing. After each bead, tie on an overhand knot to secure the bead in place (remember about pulling the knot down the string-- not just pulling opposite ends tight!). Not only does knotting each bead secure the bead and keep it from rubbing on other the beads, but it also acts to show off the pretty leather that you found! |
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Step 4: Tie the closing loop end. After you've confirmed the size to your wrist, form the closing loop. Again, we're using the overhand knot and it will take about 8" or so of cord to make this. Before you tighten the knot completely, make sure that the looped end is going to fit the clasp button, then secure the knot. Snip off the ends on a bit of a bias, and there you have it! (Or, don't snip off the ends and add some embellishments, examples listed below). Optional embellishments: On the looped end, I took the extra cord (tail) and tied a little piece of silk ribbon in with an overhand knot. Gave it a little extra interest and the color tied in well with the silver and gunmetal pieces and the leather itself. On the button end, I took one more of those little TierraCast spiral spacers and tied it in with that simple overhand knot. |
Additional Images:
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Don't forget! A little dab of adhesive in each of your finishing knots will grant peace of mind throughout the piece's lifetime! |
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On Aug 30, 2012 at 2:47 pm #
NY Bella says:Thank you for another great tutorial! You make it seem so easy! I’ll have to try this technique for sure!
On Sep 12, 2012 at 4:56 pm #
CreationsbyJoEtsycom says:I have made several of these and they are selling before I can finish them! The beautiful Gaea ceramic beads are a real eye catcher and people just love them! Thank you for a great tutorial!
On Nov 10, 2012 at 3:24 pm #
Mily S says:Love it, a great idea and looks easy to do. Invite me to be more creative.
On Dec 06, 2012 at 12:06 pm #
Altered Artist says:I couldn’t resist some of the bundles but had no idea at the time what I was going to do with them. Thank you so much for a quick way to use them in a wonderful fashion. I know what I’ll be doing with at least one of the bundles.
On May 30, 2014 at 8:11 am #
Sage S says:Creativity Unlimited how much are you selling these bracelets for?? As they are expensive to make. What are people willing to pay for them? Thx!! I live this tutorial and want to make one!