19+ Fresh Clay Bead Bracelet Ideas for Summer

Capture the essence of a sun-drenched summer day with this striking stack of clay bead bracelets. Featuring a classic color-block design in turquoise, crisp white, and vibrant coral, this trio adds a perfect pop of color to any warm-weather outfit.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Preparation & Sizing

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a measuring tape loosely around your wrist where you want the bracelets to sit. Add about 0.5 to 1 inch to this measurement depending on how loose you prefer your fit.
2. Calculate bead count:
   Lay your beads out along a ruler to see how many 8mm beads fit your desired length. For an average 7-inch bracelet, you will need roughly 22-24 beads.
3. Cut the elastic:
   Cut three strands of elastic cord, each about 10-12 inches long. Having extra length makes tying the finishing knots much easier.
4. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Hold each end of a cord segment and give it a few firm tugs. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelet from sagging or loosening permanently after you wear it a few times.
5. Secure the ends:
   Place a bead stopper or a piece of masking tape on one end of each cord to prevent beads from sliding off while you work.

Step 2: Stringing the Trio

1. Start the turquoise strand:
   Begin threading the turquoise clay beads onto your first cord. Check the beads for any roughness around the holes and discard any that might fray the elastic.
2. Check the fit:
   Once you’ve strung enough beads to match your target length, wrap it around your wrist to verify the fit is comfortable.
3. String the white strand:
   Repeat the process with the white beads on the second cord. I like to double-check that this strand matches the length of the turquoise one exactly by holding them side-by-side.
4. String the coral strand:
   Thread the coral red beads onto the third and final cord, ensuring it matches the length of the previous two bracelets.
5. Inspect the aesthetic:
   Lay all three un-tied strands together on your work surface to ensure the colors look balanced and the beads are uniform in size.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the surgeon’s knot:
   Remove the bead stopper. Cross the left end over the right, then loop it through twice (instead of once like a regular knot). Pull tight.
2. Secure the knot:
   Tie a standard overhand knot on top of the surgeon’s knot to lock it in place. Pull the elastic firmly until you feel the knot cinch tight.
3. Apply adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. This prevents it from slipping over time.
4. Hide the knot:
   While the glue is still tacky, gently pull the cord so the knot slides inside the hole of an adjacent bead. This hides the mechanics for a professional finish.
5. Trim excess cord:
   Once the glue is fully dry, use your scissors to trim the excess elastic tails as close to the bead hole as possible without nicking the knot.
6. Repeat for all bracelets:
   Perform the tying and gluing process for the remaining two bracelets to complete your water-ready summer stack.

Slip on your colorful creation and enjoy a touch of bright summer style on your wrist

Capture the warmth of a long summer day with this duo of polymer clay heishi bracelets. Combining earthy terracotta tones with a playful peek of rainbow gradient and creamy neutrals creates a sophisticated yet beach-ready stack.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Planning Your Designs

1. Measure your wrist:
   Before cutting any string, wrap a piece of cord loosely around your wrist to find a comfortable fit. Add about 3-4 inches of length to this measurement to ensure you have plenty of room for tying the finishing knots later.
2. Prepare the cord:
   Cut two lengths of your elastic cord based on the measurement you just took. Pre-stretch the elastic by giving it a few gentle tugs; this prevents the bracelet from loosening up after you wear it for the first time.
3. Secure the ends:
   Place a piece of tape or a bead stopper on one end of each cord. This simple step saves you from the frustration of beads sliding right off while you work.

Step 2: Creating the Terracotta Gradient

1. Start the base color:
   Begin threading the burnt orange layout. String approximately 2 inches of the solid terracotta heishi beads onto your first cord.
2. Build the gradient section:
   Now, create the colorful focal point. Add one bead of each color in this order: yellow, chartreuse/lime, light olive, emerald green, and deep forest green. This creates a subtle, earthy rainbow transition.
3. Finish the strand:
   Continue stringing the terracotta beads until the bracelet reaches your desired length. Periodically wrap it around your wrist to check the fit, keeping in mind that the knot will take up a tiny bit of space.

Step 3: Assembling the Cream & Gold Accent

1. Begin the second strand:
   For the companion bracelet, start by stringing about 15 to 20 of the cream-colored clay beads.
2. Add a gold accent:
   Slide on one gold spacer bead. I like using the slightly irregular ‘nugget’ spacers for a more organic, beachy look compared to perfectly round spheres.
3. Continue the pattern:
   Add another section of cream beads, roughly the same length as your first section. Visual estimation works fine here; it doesn’t need to be mathematically perfect.
4. Place more spacers:
   Continue this pattern—a segment of cream beads followed by a gold spacer—until the bracelet is full. Aim for about 3 or 4 gold accents total, spaced evenly around the loop.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the first knot:
   Remove the tape or stopper. Bring the two ends of the cord together and tie a simple overhand knot, pulling it tight against the beads without causing them to buckle.
2. Secure with a surgeon’s knot:
   For extra security, follow up with a surgeon’s knot. This is just like a standard square knot, but you loop the elastic through twice before pulling it taut.
3. Glue the knot:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Let this dry completely before moving on; patience here ensures your bracelet lasts all summer.
4. Hide the knot:
   Once the glue is dry, trim the excess elastic tails close to the knot. If the hole of a neighboring bead is large enough, gently tug the knot inside to hide it.

Slide these bracelets on for an instant touch of coastal warmth, no matter where you are

Capture the warmth of a summer sunset with this elegant beaded bracelet that alternates creamy whites and sandy tans. The strategic use of gold spacers elevates simple clay style into a chic, minimal accessory perfect for warm-weather outfits.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Preparation

1. Measure and Cut:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord to about 12 inches long. This generous length gives you plenty of room to tie knots without struggling.
2. Pre-stretch the Cord:
   Hold the ends of your elastic and give it a few firm tugs. Pre-stretching prevents the bracelet from sagging or loosening after you wear it for the first time.
3. Secure the End:
   Attach a bead stopper or simply place a piece of tape on one end of the cord so your beads don’t slide right off while you work.

Step 2: Beading Sequence

1. Start the Pattern:
   Begin by sliding on one white round bead followed by a flat gold heishi spacer.
2. Add Texture:
   Follow the spacer with a textured tan bead. These beads add that lovely organic, earthy feel to the design.
3. Second Spacer:
   Place another flat gold heishi spacer after the textured bead.
4. Shift to Brown:
   Thread on a smooth, latte-colored brown bead.
5. Introduce Detail:
   Slide on a textured gold spacer bead. I love using these detailed spacers occasionally to break up the rhythm and catch the light.
6. Return to White:
   Add a white round bead to begin transitioning the color palette back.
7. Spacer Variation:
   Use a flat gold spacer here to keep the look sleek.
8. The Center Sequence:
   Thread on two textured tan beads in a row, separated by a single flat gold spacer. This small block creates a nice visual anchor.
9. Mirror the Pattern:
   Continue alternating your white, tan, and latte beads. Try to place a gold spacer between almost every stone bead.
10. Randomize Slightly:
    Don’t stress about a perfect repeating mathematical pattern. Looking closely at the bracelet, you’ll see sections where two latte beads are grouped, or where the detailed spacers appear randomly. This organic flow feels more natural.
11. Check the Length:
    Wrap the beaded cord around your wrist to check the fit. Add or remove beads until the ends meet comfortably without gaps, aiming for a total length of about 7 inches for an average wrist.

Step 3: Finishing

1. Prepare to Tie:
   Remove the bead stopper or tape carefully, ensuring you hold both ends of the elastic securely.
2. The First Knot:
   Tie a simple overhand knot (like the first step of tying shoelaces) and pull it tight to bring the beads together.
3. The Surgeon’s Knot:
   For the second knot, loop the elastic through twice instead of once before pulling tight. This extra friction helps hold the elastic in place.
4. Apply Adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or hypo-cement directly onto the knot. Wait a moment for it to become tacky.
5. Hide the Knot:
   If possible, gently tug the elastic so the knot slides inside the hole of a neighboring bead. White beads usually have slightly larger holes that are perfect for this.
6. Trim Excess:
   Once the glue is fully dry, trim the excess elastic cord close to the bead, being careful not to nick the main structural cord.

Slip on your new golden-hour accessory and enjoy the subtle shine it brings to your wrist

Capture the essence of a beach day with this vibrant clay bead bracelet featuring a classic cowrie shell centerpiece. The rhythmic pattern of pink, teal, yellow, and orange heishi beads is punctuated by elegant gold accents, making it the perfect summer accessory.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparation

1. Measure your cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This generous length gives you plenty of room to work and tie knots without the beads slipping off.
2. Prepare the centerpiece:
   If your cowrie shell isn’t pre-drilled, select one with an open back. Using your pliers, carefully open a gold jump ring by twisting the ends away from each other (not pulling apart).
3. Attach the shell:
   Slide the open jump ring through the top loop or hole of the cowrie shell. Close the jump ring securely using your pliers so the gap is completely flush.
4. Secure the start:
   Attach a piece of tape or a bead stopper to one end of your elastic cord to prevent beads from falling off as you string them.

Step 2: Creating the Pattern

1. Start with the focal point:
   Slide your cowrie shell charm (attached to its jump ring) to the very center of your cord. This allows us to build the pattern symmetrically outward from the middle.
2. Begin the sequence:
   On the right side of the shell, thread on one Coral Pink bead, followed by one Teal bead.
3. Build the first color block:
   Repeat the mirror image on the left side: one Coral Pink bead and one Teal bead.
4. Add warmth:
   Moving back to the right side, add three Sunshine Yellow beads followed by two Coral Pink beads.
5. Introduce texture:
   Slide on three Teal beads, then add your first gold spacer bead. The gold adds a lovely shimmer that breaks up the matte clay texture.
6. Create the orange segment:
   After the gold spacer, add a segment of Bright Orange beads. Use about 3-4 beads here to create a distinct stripe.
7. Mirror the pattern:
   Repeat this exact sequence on the left side of the bracelet so both sides match perfectly radiating out from the shell.
8. Establish the secondary pattern:
   For the rest of the bracelet strap, we will create longer blocks of solid color. Start a new pattern of: 5-6 Coral Pink beads, 1 Gold Spacer, 3 Teal beads.
9. Continue beading:
   Follow that with 3-4 Bright Orange beads, another Gold Spacer, and then a block of 3-4 Sunshine Yellow beads.
10. Fill to length:
    Continue repeating these color blocks separated by gold spacers until the bracelet reaches your desired wrist size. I prefer to stop occasionally and wrap it around my wrist to check the fit.
11. Final check:
    Ensure the design ends symmetrically if possible, though it’s more important that it fits comfortably.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Prepare for closure:
   Once you are happy with the length, remove the tape or bead stopper from the end.
2. Add hardware:
   Thread a gold crimp bead onto one end, followed by the lobster clasp. Thread the cord back through the crimp bead to create a loop.
3. Secure the crimp:
   Use your flat nose pliers to squash the crimp bead flat, locking the cord in place. Add a drop of jewelry glue for extra security.
4. Finish the other side:
   On the other end of the cord, attach a gold jump ring using the same crimp bead method. Alternatively, if you prefer a simpler finish, use a surgeon’s knot to tie the elastic ends together tightly.
5. Trim excess:
   Once the glue is fully dry, trim any excess tail of the elastic cord very close to the knot or crimp bead.

Slip on your new beachy creation and enjoy the summer vibes it brings to any outfit

Capture the soft, golden light of a summer evening with this delicate beaded bracelet. Featuring a stunning gold scallop shell charm as its centerpiece, it combines milky pastel pinks, soft teals, and translucent white beads for a sophisticated beachy look.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Centerpiece

1. Open the jump ring:
   Begin by holding your 6mm gold jump ring with two pairs of pliers. Gently twist the ends away from each other to open the ring without distorting its round shape.
2. Attach the charm:
   Loop the open jump ring through the top hole of your gold scallop shell charm.
3. Secure the ring:
   Slide one of the gold spacer beads onto the jump ring alongside the charm, if the charm’s loop is large enough, or simply prepare the charm to be strung directly. Close the jump ring securely by twisting the ends back together until they meet perfectly flush.

Step 2: Stringing the Pattern

1. Measure the cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic jewelry cord to about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra slack for tying knots later.
2. First color block:
   Start stringing from one side of the intended center. Slide on two of the light translucent white beads first. These will frame the charm.
3. Add gold accents:
   Place a small gold spacer bead after the white beads to add a touch of metallic shine between the colors.
4. Teal section:
   String on three of the teal/turquoise beads next. The variation in color here mimics the changing hues of ocean water.
5. Peach section:
   Follow the teal beads with a longer run of the pastel peach beads. Slide on about 8 to 10 peach beads, depending on your desired wrist size.
6. Mirror the pattern:
   Now, let’s work on the other side of the bracelet. You can use a bead stopper or tape on the finished end to prevent beads from falling off.
7. Center the charm:
   Slide your prepared gold scallop shell charm onto the cord so it rests against the first white beads you strung.
8. Second white section:
   Add the remaining two white translucent beads on the new side, immediately sandwiching the charm between the white sections.
9. Second gold accent:
   String another gold spacer bead to match the first side.
10. Second teal section:
    Add three teal beads to mirror the opposite side.
11. Finish with peach:
    Fill the rest of the strand with pastel peach beads until the bracelet reaches your desired length, aiming for symmetry with the first side.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Add crimp beads:
   Slide a gold crimp bead onto one end of the elastic cord, followed by the jump ring attached to your lobster clasp.
2. Create the loop:
   Thread the elastic back through the crimp bead to create a secure loop holding the clasp. Pull it snug but not too tight to allow the beads to move.
3. Flatten the crimp:
   Use your flat nose pliers to firmly squash the crimp bead flat, locking the cord in place.
4. Attach extension chain:
   Repeat the crimping process on the other end of the bracelet, this time attaching the gold extension chain instead of the clasp.
5. Tie safety knots:
   For extra security, I prefer to tie a double overhand knot with the tail ends of the elastic right against the crimp beads before trimming.
6. Trim excess cord:
   carefully trim the excess elastic cord close to the crimp beads or knots, ensuring you don’t accidentally snip the main strand.
7. Final adjustment:
   Gently stretch the bracelet a few times to settle the knot and beads into place comfortably.

Slip this elegant piece on your wrist and enjoy the warm, coastal vibes it brings to any outfit

Capture the serene essence of a day by the pool with this refreshing gemstone bracelet featuring calming blues and crisp whites. A delicate sea turtle charm adds a whimsical touch, making it the perfect accessory for your seaside adventures.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparation

1. Measure your wrist:
   Before cutting any cord, wrap the stretch cord loosely around your wrist to determine the needed length. Add about 3-4 inches of extra slack to make knotting easier later on.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Give your length of cord a few firm tugs. This pre-stretching step helps prevent the bracelet from sagging or becoming loose after you wear it a few times.
3. Secure the end:
   Place a piece of tape on one end of the cord or attach a bead stopper clip. This simple precaution saves you from the frustration of beads sliding right off while you work.

Step 2: Stringing the Pattern

1. Start with the focal point:
   Begin by sliding on the gold turtle charm. Position it so it will hang freely. I like to flank the charm immediately with two blue beads to ground the sea theme right away.
2. Build the blue section:
   Continue adding the speckled turquoise beads. Add approximately 10-12 blue beads in total (including the first two), depending on your wrist size. This creates the ‘ocean’ half of the design.
3. Transition with gold:
   After the last blue bead, slide on a smooth gold donut spacer. This metallic accent marks the shift from the watery blues to the foamy whites.
4. Begin the white section:
   Thread on two of the glossy white round beads.
5. Add texture with spacers:
   Place a textured gold spacer (like a daisy spacer or rondelle) next. This adds a little complexity to the white section.
6. Continue the white pattern:
   Add two more white beads, followed by a smooth gold donut spacer.
7. Complete the white segment:
   Finish stringing the remaining white beads until you reach the desired length. You should aim for roughly equal halves of blue and white, but an asymmetrical look works beautifully too.
8. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist to verify the size. The two ends should meet comfortably without gaps, but not be tight.

Step 3: Finishing

1. Prepare the knot:
   Remove the tape or bead stopper carefully, holding both ends of the cord firmly.
2. Tie the surgeon’s knot:
   Cross the ends, wrap one end around the other twice, and pull tight. Repeat this process to secure the knot. A surgeon’s knot is much more reliable than a standard square knot for elastic cord.
3. Apply adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. This seals the fibers and prevents slipping.
4. Hide the knot:
   While the glue is still tacky but not wet, gently pull on the cord to slide the knot inside the hole of the nearest large bead.
5. Trim excess:
   Once the glue is fully dry, use your scissors to snip the excess cord ends as close to the bead as possible without nicking the main strand.

Slip this cool, coastal-inspired piece onto your wrist and enjoy the summer vibes

Bring the beach to your wrist with this elegant design that pairs sandy neutrals with vibrant pops of coral. The textured beads and gold starfish charm create a sophisticated yet relaxed summer accessory perfect for any seaside adventure.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Preparation

1. Measure and cut:
   Begin by measuring your wrist to determine the needed length. Cut a piece of elastic cord about 3-4 inches longer than your wrist measurement to allow plenty of room for tying the knot later.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Hold both ends of the elastic and give it a few gentle tugs. This pre-stretching technique helps prevent the bracelet from sagging or lengthening immediately after you finish making it.
3. Attach the clamp:
   If you don’t have a bead stopper, use a piece of tape or a binder clip on one end of the cord to stop your beads from sliding off while you work.

Step 2: Beading the Pattern

1. Prepare the charm:
   Before stringing, attach your gold starfish charm to a gold jump ring using pliers if it isn’t already attached. This ensures it hangs correctly from the cord.
2. Start the center sequence:
   Thread the gold starfish charm onto the center of your cord first. This will act as the focal point of the design.
3. Add flanking beads:
   On the immediate left and right of the starfish, thread one smooth coral pink round bead. These soft pops of color frame the metallic charm beautifully.
4. Insert spacers:
   Next to each pink bead, add one small red spacer bead. These tiny, vivid accents create a nice visual separation between the smooth pink beads and the textured white ones.
5. Begin the textured main:
   Start adding the sandy white porous beads on both sides. Thread about 7-8 of these beads onto each side of the central arrangement.
6. Add secondary accents:
   After your run of sandy beads, add a single small red spacer bead on each side to break up the neutral tones.
7. Finish the bead run:
   Continue adding the remaining sandy white beads to both ends until you reach your desired bracelet length, ensuring the pattern remains symmetrical.
8. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist to check the size. It should sit comfortably without pinching, as the knot will take up a tiny bit of space.

Step 3: Finishing Up

1. Attach the clasp hardware:
   Instead of a continuous loop, thread one end of the gold clasp hardware onto the left side of the cord and a jump ring onto the right side.
2. Tie the knot:
   Tie a standard surgeon’s knot or a square knot securely against the clasp hardware. Pull the elastic tight to secure the knot.
3. Secure with glue:
   Apply a tiny dab of jewelry glue or clear nail polish to the knot. I find this extra step essential for longevity, ensuring the sleek knot doesn’t slip over time.
4. Hide the ends:
   Once the glue is tacky but not fully hard, thread the excess tail ends of the elastic back through the adjacent neutral beads.
5. Trim carefully:
   Pull the cord slightly taut and snip the excess elastic close to the bead hole. When you release the tension, the end should disappear inside the bead.

Now you have a stunning, beach-ready accessory that captures the essence of a sandy shore.

Channel coastal vibes with this classic red, white, and navy beaded bracelet that pairs perfectly with summer linens. Using a mix of solid heishi beads, rounded discs, and hand-painted striped accents, you’ll create a sophisticated accessory that feels right at home by the sea.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preparation & Painting

1. Prepare the workspace:
   Begin by setting up a clean, flat surface. Since we are customizing some of the white beads with paint, lay down some parchment paper or a craft mat to protect your table.
2. Select the beads for painting:
   Pick out 6 to 8 of your white rounded clay beads. These will become the focal striped beads. Place them on toothpicks or thin wooden skewers; this makes them much easier to paint without getting messy fingers.
3. Paint the center stripe:
   Dip your fine detail brush into the navy blue acrylic paint. Carefully paint a single, thick band around the center circumference of the bead. Using the toothpick to rotate the bead as you paint helps keep the line steady.
4. Add outer stripes:
   Once the center line is touch-dry, paint two thinner navy lines on either side of the center band. Leave a small gap of white showing between the stripes for that crisp nautical look.
5. Dry completely:
   Stand the skewers up in a piece of foam or a jar so the beads touch nothing while drying. I prefer to let these sit for at least an hour to ensure the paint doesn’t smear during stringing.

Step 2: Stringing the Pattern

1. Measure and cut cord:
   Measure your wrist and add about 4 inches to that length. Cut your elastic cord and pre-stretch it by pulling firmly on both ends a few times to prevent the bracelet from sagging later.
2. Secure the end:
   Place a piece of tape or a bead stopper on one end of the cord to stop your beads from sliding off as you work.
3. Begin the sequence:
   Start your pattern with a plain white rounded bead, followed by a red flat heishi spacer bead.
4. Build the first section:
   Continue this pattern: white rounded bead, red spacer, white rounded bead, red spacer. You want a small cluster of about 3-4 white beads separated by red discs.
5. Insert the feature bead:
   Now, slide on one of your custom-painted navy striped beads. This acts as the visual anchor for each section.
6. Repeat the pattern:
   Resume the sequence: red spacer, white bead, red spacer, white bead. Continue alternating between the white/red sections and the striped feature beads until the bracelet is close to your desired length.
7. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist. It should sit comfortably without pinching or feeling too loose. Add or remove a bead set if necessary for the perfect fit.
8. Final bead placement:
   Ensure your pattern ends in a way that will look seamless when joined—usually by ending with a red spacer if you started with a white bead.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the knot:
   Remove the tape or stopper. Bring the two ends of the elastic together and tie a surgeon’s knot (loop the cord through twice before pulling tight) for extra security.
2. Secure with glue:
   Apply a tiny dot of super glue or jewelry cement directly onto the knot. Let this dry for a few minutes before moving it.
3. Hide the knot:
   If the hole of one of the white rounded beads is large enough, gently tug the elastic so the knot slides inside the bead, hiding it from view.
4. Trim excess cord:
   Use your scissors to trim the tails of the elastic close to the knot (or the bead hiding the knot), being careful not to nick the main cord.

Slip on your new bracelet and enjoy a touch of seaside elegance wherever you go

Celebrate the warmest season with this nostalgic, beach-ready bracelet featuring classic wooden beads and a bold statement message. The mix of muted teal, coral, and sunshine yellow beads framing the word “SUMMER” perfectly captures that relaxed seaside vibe.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Measure your wrist:
   Start by wrapping the elastic cord around your wrist to find the desired length. Add about 3-4 inches of extra cord to each end to make tying the knot easier later.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Give your cut piece of elastic a firm but gentle tug several times. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelet from loosening up and sagging after the first few times you wear it.
3. Tape the end:
   Secure one end of the elastic cord to your table with a piece of tape, or attach a bead stopper. This saves you the headache of beads sliding right off while you work.
4. Lay out the design:
   arrange your beads on a bead board or a piece of felt before stringing. Place your “SUMMER” letter beads in the center, flanked by yellow beads, and plan the alternating color pattern for the rest of the strand.

Step 2: Stringing the Design

1. Start the sequence:
   Begin stringing from the left side of your planned design. Based on the photo, start with a sequence of natural wood, light blue, and coral beads to build the back section.
2. Build the first side:
   continue adding colorful wooden beads—teal, coral, natural, and yellow—until you reach the point where the focal word should sit.
3. Add the focal point:
   Slide on a bright yellow wooden bead first to act as a frame. Then, string the letter beads in order: S, U, M, M, E, R.
4. Complete the word frame:
   Immediately after the letter ‘R’, add another matching yellow wooden bead. This symmetry highlights the text perfectly against the other colors.
5. Finish the strand:
   Continue the pattern on the other side of the word, mirroring the randomness or specific pattern of the first side until the bracelet reaches your desired length.
6. Check the fit:
   Carefully wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist to check the size. Ideally, the word “SUMMER” should sit centered on top of your wrist comfortably without pinching.

Step 3: Securing the Bracelet

1. Tie the first knot:
   Remove the tape or bead stopper. Bring both ends of the elastic together and tie a simple overhand knot, pulling it tight so there are no gaps between beads.
2. Tie a surgeon’s knot:
   For extra security, tie a surgeon’s knot next. Loop the cord over and under twice (instead of once) before pulling the knot tight. This significantly reduces slipping.
3. Apply adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. I find this helps permanentize the bond and prevents the elastic from unraveling over time.
4. Hide the knot:
   While the glue is still slightly tacky, gently tug the elastic so the knot slides inside the hole of the nearest wooden bead. This creates a seamless, professional finish.
5. Trim the excess:
   Once the glue is fully dry, use sharp scissors to trim the excess cord ends as close to the bead hole as possible without cutting the knot itself.

Now you have a vibrant accessory ready for your next beach day

Capture the laid-back vibes of summer with this cheerful trio of clay bead bracelets featuring a bold ‘BEACH’ focal point. Combining matte clay textures with shiny gold accents creates a perfect balance of beachy and chic for your wrist.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning Your Stack

1. Measure your wrist:
   Before cutting anything, wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find your size. Add about half an inch to this measurement so the bracelets fit comfortably without digging in.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Cut three strands of elastic cord, each about 10-12 inches long to give you plenty of room for tying knots later. Give each strand a few gentle tugs to pre-stretch the elastic; this prevents the bracelets from sagging after you wear them.
3. Organize your palette:
   Separate your bead colors into three piles: coral red for the top, teal/turquoise for the middle, and mustard yellow for the bottom. Lay out your ‘BEACH’ letter beads to ensure you have the correct spelling ready to go.

Step 2: The Coral Top Bracelet

1. String the base:
   Begin threading the coral red clay beads onto your first piece of elastic. String enough beads to cover almost the entire length required for your wrist size.
2. Add accent details:
   Instead of a continuous red line, break up the pattern subtly if you wish, or keep it solid and monochromatic like the top bracelet in the image. This simpler design acts as a frame for the more complex middle bracelet.
3. Tie the knot:
   Once the length is correct, tie a secure surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right). Pull it tight. I like to add a tiny dab of jewelry glue to the knot for extra security before trimming the excess cord.

Step 3: The ‘BEACH’ Focal Bracelet

1. Start the teal sections:
   On your second string, thread about 2 inches of teal clay beads. This will sit on the side of your wrist.
2. Insert gold spacers:
   Add a small gold spacer bead, followed by three white clay beads, and then another gold spacer. This creates a bright transition section before the letters.
3. Add the word:
   Thread your letter beads in order: B-E-A-C-H. Ensure they are all facing the correct way up.
4. Mirror the design:
   After the ‘H’, add a gold spacer bead, three white clay beads, and another gold spacer bead to mirror the other side.
5. Finish the loop:
   Fill the rest of the string with teal clay beads until you reach your desired wrist size.
6. Secure the strand:
   Tie off this bracelet with a strong surgeon’s knot, glue it, and trim the ends close to the knot. You can try to hide the knot inside one of the teal beads if the hole is large enough.

Step 4: The Yellow Accent Bracelet

1. Begin the yellow strand:
   Take your final piece of elastic and start threading the mustard yellow clay beads.
2. Intersperse gold beads:
   To match the bottom bracelet shown, string about 5-6 yellow beads, then add a single gold spacer bead.
3. Create the rhythm:
   Continue this pattern—5 yellow beads, 1 gold spacer—for the entire length of the bracelet. This adds a lovely shimmer that ties in with the gold accents on the middle bracelet.
4. Final check:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist one last time to double-check the fit against the other two completed bracelets.
5. Tie and finish:
   Secure with a final knot, apply a dot of glue, let it dry for a moment, and trim the excess cord.

Slide on your new stack and enjoy the immediate summer feeling wherever you go

Capture the essence of a warm summer afternoon with this cheerful beaded bracelet featuring a standout daisy charm. The soft pastel palette of pink, blue, yellow, and white clay beads creates a sweet, feminine look perfect for sunny days.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find the desired length, adding about half an inch for a comfortable fit.
2. Lay out the design:
   Before restringing, lay your beads out on a bead design board or a towel. This helps visualize the pattern, especially since this bracelet uses an asymmetrical, random-style arrangement rather than a strict repeating pattern.
3. Prepare the cord:
   Cut a length of elastic cord or beading wire about 10 inches long to give yourself plenty of room to work with.

Step 2: Starting the Strand

1. Secure the end:
   If using elastic, simply tie a loose knot at one end or use a bead stopper. If using wire, thread on a crimp bead and one half of your clasp, loop the wire back through the crimp bead, and flatten it with your pliers to secure the clasp.
2. Begin beading:
   Start with a section of simple round beads. Looking at the reference, begin with a pink bead, followed by a white bead, and then a shiny gold spacer bead.
3. Mix textures:
   Continue adding beads, alternating colors. Notice how the original design places a textured gold doughnut spacer between a blue and a yellow bead to break up the smooth clay texture.

Step 3: Adding the Feature Piece

1. Position the daisy:
   Once you have beaded about one-third of the bracelet length, it’s time to add the showstopper. Thread your cord through the side-drilled holes of the large daisy charm.
2. Secure the daisy:
   To ensure the daisy sits flat and doesn’t wiggle too much, sandwich it between two smaller, flat spacer beads or snug round beads immediately on either side.
3. Continue the pattern:
   Resume your beading on the other side of the daisy. I like to mirror the colors slightly but keep the randomness—add a speckled white bead, then a yellow one, separated by a thin white disc spacer.

Step 4: Completing the Loop

1. Finish the strand:
   Continue threading beads until you reach your measured length. End the pattern with a sequence that complements the beginning, perhaps a pink bead and a gold spacer.
2. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished bracelet around your wrist to double-check the sizing. The beads take up space, so ensure it isn’t too tight against the skin.
3. Add closure hardware:
   If using wire, thread on a crimp bead and the jump ring (or the other half of the clasp). Loop the wire back through the crimp bead and pull tight.
4. Secure the crimp:
   Use your crimping pliers to flatten the crimp bead firmly. Make sure the wires are not crossed inside the crimp for the strongest hold.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Hide the tail:
   Thread the excess wire tail back through the first two or three beads on the strand to hide it.
2. Trim excess:
   Use your small scissors or wire cutters to snip off the remaining tail as close to the beads as possible without cutting the main cord.
3. Knotting option:
   If you used elastic instead of a clasp, tie a strong surgeon’s knot, pull it tight, add a dot of super glue to the knot, and slide the knot inside a neighboring bead hole to hide it.

Now you have a charming accessory ready to pair with your favorite sundress

Brighten up your wrist with this refreshing stack of citrus-inspired bracelets featuring lemon yellow, juicy orange, and crisp white textured beads. This cheery set captures the essence of summer lemonade with playful charms and a vibrant color palette.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Planning the Stack

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find your comfortable size, adding about half an inch for a comfortable fit.
2. Cut the elastic:
   Cut three pieces of elastic cord, making them about 10-12 inches long. Having extra length makes tying the knots significantly easier later on.
3. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Give each piece of elastic a gentle tug a few times. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelets from stretching out and becoming loose after you wear them for the first time.

Step 2: The Orange Layer

1. String the orange beads:
   Thread the smooth orange matte beads onto your first piece of elastic until you reach your desired wrist length.
2. Check the fit:
   Wrap the strand around your wrist to ensure it isn’t too tight, especially since these chunky beads take up more inner circumference.
3. Tie the knot:
   Secure the bracelet with a sturdy surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right) and pull tight.
4. Secure the knot:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue on the knot, let it dry for a minute, then trim the excess cord and tuck the knot inside a bead hole if possible.

Step 3: The Yellow Ombre & White

1. Mix yellow and white:
   For the second bracelet, create a varied pattern using bright yellow beads mixed with smooth white beads or paler yellow ones to create a slight ombre or mixed citrus effect.
2. Insert silver accents:
   Optionally, slip in a few small silver or gold spacers between sections of color to break up the solidity and add a bit of shine.
3. Finish the strand:
   Confirm length matches the orange bracelet, tie firmly with a surgeon’s knot, glue, and trim.

Step 4: The White Texture Layer

1. Start the white strand:
   Begin threading the white lava rock or textured stone beads. The porous texture of these beads contrasts beautifully with the smooth orange and yellow ones.
2. Add gold spacers:
   Halfway through stringing, add two gold spacer beads side-by-side. These will act as the anchor point for your charms later.
3. Complete the beading:
   Finish stringing the rest of the white beads until the length matches the previous two bracelets.
4. Seal the bracelet:
   Tie your final surgeon’s knot, apply glue, and trim the ends close to the knot.

Step 5: Adding the Charms

1. Prepare the jump rings:
   Using your pliers, gently twist open two gold jump rings. Remember to twist them sideways (like opening a door), not pull them apart, to maintain their circle shape.
2. Attach the lemon:
   Slide the lemon slice charm onto one jump ring and loop it onto the section of the white bracelet between the two gold spacers.
3. Attach the leaf:
   Place the leaf charm on the second jump ring and hook it onto the same area, so it hangs beside the lemon.
4. Close the rings:
   Use the pliers to twist the jump rings back into a closed position, ensuring the ends meet perfectly flush so the charms don’t slip off.

Enjoy wearing this sunny set that brings a touch of summer energy to any outfit

Capture the essence of a refreshing summer treat with this delightful watermelon-inspired bracelet. Using a mix of solid clay beads and custom hand-painted accents, this accessory perfectly balances sweet pinks and cool greens for poolside flair.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Creating the Solid Beads

1. Condition the clay:
   Start by kneading your pink, mint green, and white polymer clay separately until each is soft and pliable. This conditioning step prevents cracks later on.
2. Portion the clay:
   Pinch off small, equal-sized pieces of each color. Aim for chunks that will roll into balls roughly 8mm to 10mm in diameter.
3. Roll spheres:
   Roll each piece between your palms to create smooth, round spheres. You will need approximately 8-10 pink beads, 6-8 green beads, and 4-6 white beads depending on your wrist size.
4. Poke holes:
   Using a needle tool or toothpick, carefully pierce a hole through the center of each bead. Rotate the bead gently as you push through to keep the shape round.

Step 2: Making the Patterned Accents

1. Form the base beads:
   Create a few extra white beads and perhaps one small cylindrical/barrel-shaped white bead to serve as the focal patterned pieces.
2. Bake the beads:
   Arrange all your pierced beads on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake according to your clay manufacturer’s instructions (usually 275°F/135°C for 15-30 minutes) and let them cool completely.
3. Paint the seeds:
   Once cool, use a fine detail brush or the tip of a toothpick dipped in black acrylic paint to add small dots on the dedicated white accent beads. These mimic watermelon seeds.
4. Seal the paint:
   Allow the paint to dry fully. For longevity, I recommend coating these specific painted beads with a thin layer of gloss varnish or glaze.

Step 3: Assembly

1. Cut the cord:
   Cut a length of stretch cord about 10-12 inches long. This extra length makes tying the knot much easier later.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Give the elastic a few firm tugs before stringing. This ‘pre-stretching’ helps prevent the bracelet from sagging after you wear it a few times.
3. Start the pattern:
   Begin threading your beads. A nice sequence is to alternate groupings: two pinks, a tiny black seed bead spacer, one green, then a white.
4. Integrate patterned beads:
   Place your painted ‘seed’ beads at irregular intervals or focused in the center to create visual interest. Notice specifically how the cylindrical painted bead acts as a unique separator.
5. Add spacers:
   Between varied color transitions, slide on those tiny black seed beads. They act like little seeds and add a professional finish to the spacing.
6. Check the fit:
   Wrap the strung beads around your wrist to check the size. Add or remove beads until it sits comfortably without gaps.

Step 4: Finishing

1. Tie the knot:
   Tie a surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right twice) and pull it tight. The elastic should stretch slightly as you secure it.
2. Secure with glue:
   Apply a tiny drop of jewelry glue directly onto the knot. Let it dry for a moment before trimming the excess cord.
3. Hide the knot:
   If precisely sized, gently tug the knot inside the hole of one of the neighboring clay beads to hide it from view.

Enjoy wearing your vibrant summer accessory at your next sunny gathering

Capture the warmth of a summer evening with this stunning polymer clay bead bracelet, featuring a seamless transition from deep berry pinks to soft tangerine and peach. The matte texture gives these beads a modern, sophisticated look that pairs perfectly with the vibrant sunset color palette.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Creating the Clay Beads

1. Color Preparation:
   Begin by conditioning your polymer clay. You need five distinct shades to create the ombre effect: a dark berry pink, a medium hot pink, a vibrant orange, a softer tangerine, and a pale peach. If you don’t have these exact colors, mix white into your base colors to create lighter gradients.
2. portioning:
   Roll each color into a consistent log or snake of the same thickness. Cut equal-sized segments from each log to ensure your beads end up the same size. You will need approximately 15-18 beads total, depending on wrist size.
3. Rolling:
   Take each segment and roll it into a ball between your palms. For a perfectly smooth, round finish, I like to use an acrylic block or bead roller in a circular motion on a flat surface.
4. Piercing:
   Carefully pierce the center of each bead with a toothpick or bead pin. twisting the tool gently as you push through prevents the bead from squishing out of shape.
5. Texturing (Optional):
   The beads in the image have a lovely matte, almost stone-like texture. To achieve this, lightly roll the raw clay balls on a piece of sandpaper or a textured sponge before baking, or simply leave them smooth for a classic look.
6. Baking:
   Arrange the beads on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake according to your clay manufacturer’s instructions (usually around 275°F/135°C for 15-30 minutes). Let them cool completely before handling.

Step 2: Assembly

1. Layout Design:
   Lay your cooled beads out on a flat surface. Arrange them to create the gradient effect seen in the photo: Dark Berry > Hot Pink > Orange > Tangerine > Peach > Tangerine > Orange > Hot Pink > Dark Berry. This symmetrical ombre creates a balanced look.
2. Stringing:
   Cut a length of nylon cord or beading wire, leaving plenty of excess on both sides. Thread the beads onto the cord in your arranged order.
3. Adding Spacers:
   Notice the tiny dark spacers in the image? If you wish, add a very small contrasting seed bead or knot between the larger clay beads to separate them slightly, though stringing them directly together works just fine for a denser look.
4. Securing the Ends:
   Thread one end of the cord through a crimp bead, then through a jump ring attached to your lobster clasp.
5. Looping Back:
   Loop the wire back through the crimp bead and pull tight, leaving a small loop. Use your flat nose pliers to smash the crimp bead flat, securing the wire.
6. Finishing the First Side:
   Trim the excess wire close to the crimp bead. You can hide the tail inside the first clay bead if there is space.
7. Second Side Connection:
   Repeat the crimping process on the other end, attaching a jump ring and an extension chain instead of a clasp. Ensure the beads are snug but not so tight the bracelet becomes stiff.
8. Making the Pull Ties (Alternative):
   The project image shows a sliding knot style. To do this instead of a clasp, cross your cord ends and tie a square knot or macrame sliding knot over both strands.
9. Decorative Ends:
   Finish the dangling cord ends by threading a smaller, matching bead (like the small pink one in the photo) onto each tail and knotting the cord securely underneath it.

Enjoy wearing your warm, sunset-inspired accessory all summer long

Capture the rhythm of the ocean with this bold bracelet featuring handmade polymer clay beads in crashing wave patterns. The combination of deep navy, cool teal, and sandy beige textures creates a sophisticated surfer-chic accessory perfect for beach days.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Creating the Wave Canes

1. Prepare the clay palette:
   Condition your navy blue, teal, and white polymer clay separately until soft and pliable. You want these colors to contrast sharply to mimic breaking waves.
2. Form the base sheets:
   Roll out a thick sheet of navy blue and a thinner sheet of white. Layer the white on top of the blue to start creating a stack.
3. Create the wave distortion:
   Cut your stacked sheet into strips. Stack these strips to create a block with horizontal stripes. Now, gently push the sides of the block to manipulate the lines into curves, or use a tool to press indentations into the stack to simulate the ‘swell’ shape seen in the beads.
4. Make the swirl cane:
   For the swirly white-and-teal beads, roll a snake of teal and a snake of white. Twist them together tightly like a candy cane, then roll the twisted log into a smooth cylinder to blend the edges slightly without losing the definition.
5. Slice and apply:
   Roll balls of scrap clay to act as the core for your beads. Carefully slice thin cross-sections of your wave and swell canes. Apply these slices onto the core balls, smoothing the seams gently with your fingertips so the pattern wraps continuously around the sphere.

Step 2: Shaping the Accent Beads

1. Form the solid solids:
   Roll several medium-sized balls of plain navy clay. Keep these uniform in size to anchor the back of the bracelet design.
2. Create the sand texture:
   Take your beige or granite-effect clay and roll two slightly larger focal beads. To enhance the texture, I like to roll them gently over a piece of coarse sandpaper or use a toothbrush to stipple the surface for a realistic sandy look.
3. Add the smaller connector beads:
   Roll a small amount of teal into a marble-sized bead and a tiny white bead for the drawstring end tie.

Step 3: Piercing and Baking

1. Pierce the holes:
   Using a bead pin, carefully pierce a hole through the center of each bead. Rotate the pin as you push through to avoid squashing the round shape.
2. Double check alignment:
   Ensure the holes on your wave-patterned beads run perpendicular to the pattern direction so the waves flow horizontally when worn.
3. Bake the batch:
   Place all beads on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake according to your specific clay brand’s instructions (usually 275°F/135°C for 15-30 minutes).
4. Cooling:
   Allow the beads to cool completely before determining if you need to glaze them. The matte finish looks very natural, but a light gloss on just the ‘water’ beads can make them look wet.

Step 4: Assembly

1. Prepare the cord:
   Cut a length of natural hemp or cotton cord, about 12 inches long to allow plenty of room for knotting.
2. Stringing order:
   Start threading the beads. Arrange them symmetrically: place the solid navy beads at the back, transitioning into the patterned wave beads, and finish with the two large sand-colored beads meeting at the front center.
3. Create the focal closure:
   Instead of a clasp, knot the cord ends together between the two sand beads effectively, or create a sliding knot closure if you prefer adjustable sizing.
4. Add the dangler:
   Attached a small tail of cord hanging from the central knot area and thread the single small white bead onto it. Secure with a tight overhand knot and trim the excess fringe to finish the casual look.

Slip this bracelet on and enjoy the feeling of carrying a little piece of the ocean with you wherever you go

Capture the serene essence of a coastal morning with this beautifully textured bracelet featuring a soothing palette of matte teals and soft greens. The mix of frosted sea-glass textures and smooth matte stones creates a tactile piece that feels like a treasure washed up on the sand.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Planning Your Pattern

1. Lay out the palette:
   Begin by sorting your beads by color and texture on a bead board or a piece of felt. Notice the subtle variations: you have solid matte teals, textured ‘sugar’ beads, and smooth translucent frosted glass.
2. Establish the focal point:
   Identify your ‘centerpiece’ beads. In this design, the large fluted gold bead paired with a translucent white bead acts as the subtle closure point or focal area.
3. Create the repeating rhythm:
   Arrange the rest of your beads in a loose circle to visualize the final look. Aim for an organic pattern rather than a strict ABA sequence.
4. Balance the colors:
   Ensure you don’t have too many dark teal beads clumped together; alternate them with the lighter seafoam and translucent beads to keep the ‘misty’ effect alive.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

1. Prepare the cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room for tying knots later.
2. Secure the end:
   Place a bead stopper or simply a piece of masking tape on one end of the cord so your beads don’t slide off while you work.
3. Start with the focal section:
   Thread on the translucent white bead followed by the large fluted gold bead. Starting here helps hide the final knot inside the larger gold bead later.
4. Add the first teal sequence:
   String approximately 4-5 matte teal and seafoam beads. Mix the sizes slightly if you have 8mm and 10mm options for a more natural flow.
5. Insert gold spacers:
   After your first color block, string a matte teal bead, then a small gold twisted spacer, a translucent frosted bead, another gold spacer, and a textured turquoise bead. This creates the decorative segment shown in the foreground.
6. Continue the pattern:
   Add another block of mixed teal and seafoam beads. I like to visually check the length against my wrist at this point to see if I need more beads or if I should start closing the loop.
7. Finish the strand:
   Complete the circle by adding the remaining matte beads until you reach the desired wrist size (standard is usually about 7 inches).
8. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   Before tying, hold both ends of the cord and give the bracelet a gentle tug. This ‘pre-stretching’ prevents the bracelet from sagging the first time you wear it.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the knot:
   Remove the bead stopper and bring the two ends together. Tie a standard surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right, looping through twice).
2. Tighten securely:
   Pull the cords firmly from all four directions (the two tail ends and the two bracelet sides) to cinch the knot tight.
3. Secure with adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish onto the knot. Let it dry for a few minutes to ensure it won’t slip.
4. Hide the mechanism:
   Trim the excess cord ends to about 2mm. Gently tug the elastic so the knot slides inside the hole of the large fluted gold bead next to it.
5. Final inspection:
   Roll the bracelet in your hands to settle the beads into a perfect circle and check that no gaps are showing between stones.

Now you have a refreshing accessory that brings a cool ocean breeze to any summer outfit

Channel the energy of a summer music festival with this vibrant bracelet stack that combines eye-catching matte solids with shimmering metallic accents. The mix of textures and bead sizes creates a playful, layered look that feels collected over time rather than just bought.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Planning the Stack

1. Measure your wrist:
   Before cutting any cord, wrap a string loosely around your wrist to find your ideal circumference, then add about an inch to allow for the bulk of the larger beads.
2. Prep the cord:
   Cut five separate strands of elastic cord, each about 10-12 inches long. This generous length makes tying the final knots much easier.
3. Secure the ends:
   Place a bead stopper or a piece of masking tape on one end of each cord to prevent your beads from sliding off while you work.

Step 2: Creating the Solid Layers

1. String the mint green strand:
   Begin with the 8-10mm matte mint green beads. Thread enough beads to completely encircle your wrist without gaps. I like to double-check the fit on my wrist before tying.
2. Tie off the first bracelet:
   Remove the stopper and tie a secure surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right). Pull tight to secure.
3. Create the lime green layer:
   Repeat the process with the lime green matte beads. Since these are the same size as the mint ones, you can simply match the length of the first bracelet.
4. Create the hot pink layer:
   Using the matte hot pink beads, create your third solid-color bracelet. These solids form the anchor for your stack’s color palette.
5. Add the heishi texture:
   For the fourth strand, use the turquoise heishi clay discs. These are thinner, so you will need significantly more of them to reach the same length as the round bead strands.

Step 3: Building the Metallic Feature Strand

1. Start the pattern:
   This final strand is the most complex. Start stringing from the side, aiming to center the large gold barrel bead. Begin with 6-8 round silver metallic beads.
2. Add texture variation:
   Add a faceted silver bead, followed by a few more round silver spacers. This irregularity gives it a boho feel.
3. Construct the focal point:
   Thread on a small turquoise heishi bead, then a black spacer, and then your large gold textured barrel bead.
4. Mirror the accent:
   Immediately follow the gold barrel with another black spacer and a turquoise heishi bead to frame the centerpiece.
5. Complete the metallic loop:
   Finish the rest of the strand with a mix of silver round beads and faceted silver beads until it matches the length of your other bracelets.

Step 4: Final Assembly

1. Knot the remaining strands:
   Tie surgeon’s knots for the pink, teal, and metallic bracelets just as you did for the first two.
2. Secure with glue:
   Apply a tiny dot of super glue or jewelry cement to each knot. Pull the knot tight and let it dry for a minute or two.
3. Hide the knots:
   Once the glue is dry, trim the excess cord close to the knot. If the beads have large enough holes, gently tug the knot inside an adjacent bead to hide it.
4. Arrange the stack:
   Place the bracelets on your wrist. For the messiest festival look, mix the solids between the textured heishi and metallic strands.

Slip on your colorful stack and enjoy the effortless, summer-ready vibe they add to any outfit

Capture the electric vibe of a summer evening with this high-contrast design. Matte black clay beads provide a sleek background that makes the pops of neon pink, lime green, and gold spacers truly shine.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Measure and cut cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room for knotting later without struggling with short ends.
2. Secure the end:
   Place a piece of tape over one end of the cord or attach a bead stopper clip so your beads don’t slide right off while you work.
3. Plan your pattern:
   Visualize the bracelet’s repeating sections. The main feature is long stretches of black beads interrupted by vibrant neon and gold focal points. I find laying out a few inches of the pattern on a bead board helps visualize the spacing before stringing.

Step 2: Stringing the Pattern

1. Start with black base:
   Begin by threading on approximately 6-8 matte black heishi beads to create the first dark segment.
2. Add the neon highlight:
   Slide on one neon lime green bead, followed immediately by one neon pink bead.
3. Insert gold accent:
   Thread a gold rondelle spacer bead next. This adds a flash of metallic shine that elevates the plastic clay look.
4. Create the center section:
   String on 3 matte black beads. This small cluster separates your two gold accents.
5. Mirror the gold:
   Add a second gold rondelle spacer bead to frame the mini black section.
6. Mirror the neon:
   Finish this focal block by adding one neon pink bead followed by one neon lime green bead.
7. Repeat the sequence:
   Return to your main background color by stringing 6-8 matte black beads again. Repeat the entire pattern (Neon-Gold-Blacks-Gold-Neon) until the bracelet reaches your desired length.
8. Check the fit:
   Wrap the strand around your wrist. For a comfortable fit, it should sit strictly against the skin without digging in, usually around 6.5 to 7 inches for an average wrist.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Give the ends of the elastic a gentle tug. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelet from becoming loose and saggy after the first few wears.
2. Tie the knot:
   Remove the tape or stopper. Tie a surgeon’s knot (loop the cord through twice on the first pass) and pull it tight. Follow with a standard overhand knot to secure it.
3. Secure with glue:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Let it dry for a few minutes to ensure it won’t unravel.
4. Hide the knot:
   Once dry, trim the excess cord ends close to the knot. Gently tug the bracelet so the knot slides inside the hole of one of the adjacent beads, hiding it from view.
5. Alternative clasp finish:
   If you prefer a clasp (as seen in the inspiration image), crimp the ends onto jump rings using crimp beads instead of tying a knot, and attach a lobster clasp.

Now you have a striking accessory perfect for stacking or wearing solo on summer nights

Capture the essence of a warm beach day with this beautiful beaded bracelet featuring earthy terracotta tones and creamy whites. The mixture of textures, from porous lava-style beads to smooth rounds, is perfectly anchored by a delicate golden starfish charm.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Measure your cord:
   Cut a piece of stretch cord about 10-12 inches long. This generous length makes it much easier to tie the knots at the end without struggling.
2. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   Hold the cord at both ends and give it a few gentle tugs. This is a crucial step often missed; it prevents the bracelet from stretching out permanently after the first wear.
3. Secure the end:
   Place a piece of tape or a bead stopper on one end of the cord so your beads don’t slide off while you are stringing them.

Step 2: Creating the Pattern

1. Start with the focal section:
   Begin stringing your beads in the center focal pattern. Start with one gold ribbed spacer, then a cream round bead, followed by a gold jump ring (we will attach the charm here later).
2. Finish the focal center:
   Continue the pattern mirrored from the jump ring: add another cream round bead, followed by a gold ribbed spacer.
3. Build the first side:
   Moving outward from the focal point, add a cream round bead, then a simple small gold spacer bead to add a touch of shine.
4. Transition to terracotta:
   Now, thread on three of the terracotta-colored porous beads. The texture here contrasts beautifully with the smooth cream beads.
5. Add a creamy interlude:
   After the three terracotta beads, add one cream round bead, followed by a gold ribbed spacer.
6. Continue the side pattern:
   Add one more cream bead, then switch back to the main body color by adding a long string of terracotta beads. I usually count about 10-12 beads here, depending on your wrist size.

Step 3: Completing the Circle

1. Mirror the design:
   Go back to the other side of your initial focal point. You want the design to look balanced, so repeat the sequence: cream bead, gold spacer, three terracotta beads.
2. Finish the transition:
   Add the cream bead, ribbed spacer, cream bead sequence, and then fill in with terracotta beads until the bracelet reaches your desired length (usually about 7 inches for an average wrist).
3. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist. It should sit comfortably without digging in, but not be too loose.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the knot:
   Remove the tape or stopper. Bring the ends together and tie a surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right, looping the second pass twice).
2. Secure with glue:
   Apply a tiny dab of jewelry glue directly onto the knot. Let it dry for a moment before trimming the excess cord close to the knot.
3. Prepare the charms:
   Open a gold jump ring using two pliers (twist front to back, don’t pull apart). Slide on your gold starfish charm and the small white disc charm.
4. Attach the charms:
   Hook the open jump ring onto the dedicated jump ring you strung into the bracelet earlier (between the two central cream beads). Close the jump ring securely.
5. Hide the knot:
   Gently pull the elastic so the knotted section slides inside one of the larger beads, hiding it from view for a seamless finish.

Wear your new bracelet alone or stacked with others to carry a little piece of the shore with you everywhere