17+ Summer Bracelets: Clay Bead Bracelet Ideas for Summer

When the heat hits, I’m always reaching for summer bracelets that feel like a tiny vacation on your wrist. These clay bead bracelet ideas are all about colorful heishi beads, beachy details, and easy stacks you’ll want to wear on repeat.

Classic Rainbow Heishi Clay Bead Stack

Sun-kissed rainbow heishi stack with simple gold spacers, perfect for easy summer layering
Sun-kissed rainbow heishi stack with simple gold spacers, perfect for easy summer layering

This vibrant stack combines playful polymer clay heishi beads with elegant gold accents for a summer accessory that feels both relaxed and refined. The mix of solid color strands and multi-colored patterns creates a layered, textural look perfect for beach days or brunch dates.

Step-by-Step

Materials

  • Polymer clay heishi beads (6mm) in: hot pink, cream/ivory, turquoise/teal, mustard yellow, and a mixed ‘rainbow’ assortment
  • Gold accent beads: small rounds, spacers, and textured charms (like an elephant or filigree centerpiece)
  • Strong elastic stretch cord (0.8mm recommended)
  • Hypo-cement or jewelry glue
  • Scissors or wire cutters
  • Bead stopper or tape
  • Beading needle (optional, for easier threading)

Step 1: Planning the Stack

  1. Measure your wrist:
    Before cutting any cord, measure your wrist and add about 1/2 inch for a comfortable fit. Since we are making a stack, slight variations in size are okay, but you want them to sit nicely together.
  2. Cut the elastic:
    Cut five separate pieces of elastic cord, each about 10-12 inches long. Having extra length makes tying the final knots much less frustrating.
  3. Secure the ends:
    Attach a bead stopper or a piece of tape to one end of each cord to prevent your hard work from sliding off while you bead.

Step 2: Bracelet 1: The Pink & Gold Statement

  1. Start the pink strand:
    Thread about 3 inches of solid hot pink heishi beads onto your first cord.
  2. Add gold spacers:
    Slide on a small gold spacer bead, followed by a larger gold accent bead, and another spacer to create a metallic focal section.
  3. Finish the color:
    Continue threading hot pink beads until you reach your desired length.

Knot Slipping?

If your elastic knots slip, try coating the knot with clear nail polish if you don’t have jewelry glue. Let it dry completely before hiding it in a bead.

Step 3: Bracelet 2: Cream & Charm

  1. Base layer:
    For the second bracelet, use the cream or ivory heishi beads. Thread enough to cover half the bracelet length.
  2. Insert the centerpiece:
    Add a gold decorative charm or connector. In the image, there is a textured gold piece that sits centrally.
  3. Complete the loop:
    Finish the strand with more cream beads to match the first half.

Level Up: Tassel Time

Add a mini cotton tassel in a contrasting color (like bright neon orange) to the gold charm bracelet for extra movement and boho flair.

Step 4: Bracelet 3: The Patterned Mix

  1. Create a pattern:
    This strand relies on variety. Alternate small sections of solid colors—like 5 yellow beads, then 5 teal beads, then 5 white beads.
  2. Incorporate mixed beads:
    Intersperse these solid blocks with random multi-colored beads or a ‘confetti’ mix to give it that carefree summer vibe.
  3. Checking length:
    Periodically hold this strand up against the solid pink one to ensure they will drape similarly on the wrist.

Step 5: Bracelet 4: The Teal & Elephant

  1. Thread the teal:
    Using your turquoise or teal beads, string about half the bracelet length.
  2. Add a whimsical charm:
    Slide on a gold hanging charm, such as the small elephant seen in the stack. I like to frame charms with tiny gold rounds to help them hang straight.
  3. Finish with teal:
    Complete the rest of the strand with the remaining teal beads.

Step 6: Bracelet 5: The Mixed Rainbow

  1. Go random:
    For the final bracelet that sits at the bottom of the stack, use a completely random assortment of all your colors: pink, cream, teal, yellow, and red.
  2. Gold touches:
    Every inch or so, slip in a thin gold heishi spacer to tie this colorful strand back to the elegance of the other bracelets.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

  1. Pre-stretch the cord:
    Before tying, give each bracelet a gentle tug to pre-stretch the elastic. This prevents it from loosening up later when you wear it.
  2. Tie the surgeon’s knot:
    Remove the tape/stopper. Tie a standard overhand knot, pull tight, then tie a surgeon’s knot (looping the end through twice) for extra security.
  3. Glue and hide:
    Apply a tiny dot of jewelry glue to the knot. Once slightly tacky, pull the knot inside a nearby bead (preferably a gold one or a bead with a larger hole) to hide it.
  4. Trim excess:
    Once the glue is fully dry, trim the excess cord ends carefully with scissors.

Slip on your new stack and enjoy the splash of handmade color on your wrist

Sunset Ombre Summer Bracelet Set

Sunset ombre heishi clay bead bracelet set in warm sand tones, minimalist summer style.
Sunset ombre heishi clay bead bracelet set in warm sand tones, minimalist summer style.

Capture the warmth of a summer evening with this trio of flat clay bead bracelets, featuring a gorgeous gradient from soft peach to vibrant orange. These lightweight heishi beads sit comfortably on the wrist, making them the perfect stackable accessory for sunny days.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Materials

  • 6mm polymer clay heishi beads (matte finish preferred) in soft peach, terracotta pink, and mustard yellow
  • 0.8mm clear elastic stretch cord
  • Jewelry glue or clear nail polish
  • Sharp scissors
  • Bead stopper or masking tape (optional)
  • Ruler

Step 1: Planning Your Gradient

  1. Measure your wrist:
    Wrap a flexible measuring tape around your wrist to find your size. Add about half an inch to this measurement to ensure the bracelets fit comfortably without digging into your skin.
  2. Cut the cord:
    Cut three lengths of elastic cord, each about 10-12 inches long. Having this extra length makes tying the final knots significantly easier than trying to work with short ends.
  3. Secure the ends:
    Attach a bead stopper or simply place a piece of masking tape folded over one end of each cord. This prevents your beads from sliding right off while you work.
  4. Organize colours:
    Lay out your three distinct colors. This set uses a monochromatic ombre approach: one bracelet is entirely soft peach, the middle is a terracotta pink, and the third is a warm mustard yellow. Keeping them solid creates a stronger visual impact when stacked.

Knot Slipping?

If the elastic keeps untying, try rubbing the knot area with a little beeswax or simple candle wax before tying. The texture helps the slick elastic grip itself better.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

  1. Start the first bracelet:
    Begin with the soft peach beads. Check the bead holes for any clay debris before stringing; sometimes the manufacturing process leaves small plugs inside.
  2. Thread consistently:
    String the beads onto the elastic one by one. With flat heishi beads, it’s crucial to ensure they are all facing flat against each other to create that smooth, tube-like texture.
  3. Check the length:
    Periodically wrap the cord around your wrist to check the fit. Clay beads can be surprisingly dense, so you want to make sure you have enough to encircle your wrist without gaps.
  4. Repeat for the second color:
    Once the peach bracelet is measured, move on to the terracotta pink cord. String these beads exactly the same way, aiming for the exact same length as your first strand.
  5. Complete the trio:
    Finish stringing by working on the mustard yellow simple strand. I find it helpful to hold all three up together at this stage to ensure the sizes match perfectly before tying anything off.

Add a Focal Point

Make one bracelet stand out by inserting a single gold spacer bead or a small cowrie shell charm in the center. It adds a luxe touch to the rustic clay.

Step 3: Securing the Knots

  1. Pre-stretch the cord:
    Before tying, gently pull on the ends of the elastic cord to ‘pre-stretch’ it. This vital step prevents the bracelet from stretching out and sagging the first time you wear it.
  2. Remove the stopper:
    Carefully remove your tape or bead stopper while pinching the end of the cord securely so no beads escape.
  3. Tie a surgeon’s knot:
    Cross the ends like a normal knot, loop it underneath, but then loop it underneath a second time before pulling tight. This extra loop creates friction that holds the elastic better.
  4. Tighten securely:
    Pull the knot tight. You should see the elastic stretching slightly and the knot becoming very small and translucent.
  5. Add adhesive:
    Apply a tiny dab of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Let this dry for a few minutes; don’t rush this part or the knot might slip.
  6. Hide the knot:
    Once the glue is tacky or dry, trim the excess tail ends close to the knot. Then, gently slide the adjacent beads over the knot to hide it inside one of the bead holes.

Enjoy mixing and matching your new sunset stack individually or wearing them all together for a full boho look

Ocean Blues Wave Pattern Bracelet

Ocean-blue wave clay bead bracelet in crisp white, minimal coastal style, clean and summery
Ocean-blue wave clay bead bracelet in crisp white, minimal coastal style, clean and summery

Capture the refreshing spirit of a summer beach day with this textured, ocean-inspired design. Mixing matte round beads with signature flat clay heishi discs creates a beautiful rhythm reminiscent of crashing waves and white foam.

Step-by-Step Guide

Materials

  • Elastic cord (0.7mm or 0.8mm clear stretch cord)
  • Round matte beads (8-10mm) in navy blue
  • Round matte beads (8-10mm) in light aqua/turquoise
  • Flat polymer clay heishi beads in teal/turquoise
  • Flat polymer clay heishi beads in white
  • Flat polymer clay heishi beads in navy blue
  • Small gold spacer beads (flat disc shaped)
  • Small gold ball spacer beads (approx. 3mm)
  • Scissors or jewelry cutters
  • Super glue or jewelry cement
  • Beading needle (optional but helpful)
  • Binder clip or tape (to hold the end of the string)

Step 1: Preparation

  1. Measure and Cut:
    Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This extra length is crucial for tying a secure knot later. I like to pre-stretch the elastic by pulling it gently a few times to prevent it from sagging after wear.
  2. Secure the End:
    Attach a binder clip or a piece of tape to one end of your cord. This acts as a ‘bead stopper’ so your beautiful pattern doesn’t slide right off while you work.

Pro Tip: Bead Sorting

Before stringing, lay your pattern out on a bead design board or a towel. The clay discs vary in thickness, so you can pair thin ones together to keep segment sizes uniform.

Step 2: Creating the Pattern Segments

  1. Start with a Navy Anchor:
    Begin your pattern by threading on one large, round matte navy blue bead. This acts as a visual anchor for the recurring segments.
  2. Gold Accents:
    Immediately following the navy bead, add one small gold ball spacer. This adds a tiny glint of sunlight to the deeper ocean tones.
  3. Teal Transition:
    Thread on two to three flat teal heishi beads. Depending on the thickness of your beads, you might need a third one to get a distinct band of color.
  4. White Contrast:
    Add a stark contrast by threading on two flat white heishi beads. This mimics the sea foam on a wave.
  5. Teal Balance:
    Mirror the previous teal section by adding another two to three flat teal heishi beads.
  6. Closing Gold Accent:
    Finish this specific segment with another small gold ball spacer.

Step 3: Alternating the Design

  1. The Second Segment Type:
    Instead of repeating the exact same sequence, create variety. Thread on a large round navy bead, but follow it with a flat gold disc spacer instead of a ball.
  2. Mixed Whites:
    Thread on two white heishi beads, followed by a flat navy heishi bead in the center, and two more white heishi beads. This creates a striped look.
  3. Gold Disc Finish:
    Cap this striped section with another flat gold disc spacer.
  4. Pattern Rhythm:
    Continue beading by alternating these two main ideas: a segment focused on teal/turquoise colors, and a segment focused on navy/white stripes. Use the large round beads as the dividers between these ‘waves’.
  5. Incorporating Aqua:
    For every third big bead, swap the navy round bead for a light aqua round bead. This keeps the bracelet from looking too dark and adds that tropical water feel.
  6. Check Length:
    Wrap the strand around your wrist occasionally. You want the beads to touch comfortably without gaps, but not be tight.

Troubleshooting: Uneven Pattern

If your pattern doesn’t close perfectly at the end, simply add or remove a few flat heishi spacers near the knot. They act as excellent ‘filler’ without disrupting the main design.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

  1. Prepare to Tie:
    Once you have reached your desired length (usually around 6.5 to 7 inches for an average wrist), ensure your pattern ends in a way that will look seamless when joined with the start.
  2. The Surgeon’s Knot:
    Remove the binder clip. Cross the two ends of the elastic. Loop one end under the other twice (instead of just once like a standard shoelace knot). Pull tight.
  3. Secure the Knot:
    Tie a second standard overhand knot on top of the first one. Pull firmly—you should feel the elastic stretch slightly as the knot creates a tight ball.
  4. Add Glue:
    Apply a tiny drop of jewelry cement or super glue directly onto the knot. Let it dry for a few minutes; don’t rush this part or the knot might slip.
  5. Hide the Evidence:
    Once dry, trim the excess elastic tails close to the knot. Ideally, gently tug the bracelet so the knot slides inside the hole of one of the large round navy beads to hide it completely.

Enjoy the cool, coastal vibes of your new custom accessory

Pastel Sorbet With Gold Spacers

Pastel sorbet heishi bracelet with gold spacers, sunlit on white towel for summer vibes
Pastel sorbet heishi bracelet with gold spacers, sunlit on white towel for summer vibes

Capture the essence of a sweet summer treat with this delightful clay bead bracelet featuring alternating sections of soft mint, lavender, and pink. Punctuated by rich gold nugget spacers, this design balances playful colors with a touch of elegance, perfect for stacking or wearing solo.

Detailed Instructions

Materials

  • Polymer clay Heishi disc beads in mint green
  • Polymer clay Heishi disc beads in pastel lavender
  • Polymer clay Heishi disc beads in baby pink
  • Gold nugget or organic spacer beads (approx. 4-5mm)
  • Stretch magic elastic cord (0.7mm or 0.8mm clear)
  • Super glue or jewelry cement
  • Scissors
  • Tape or a bead stopper clip

Step 1: Setting Up and Measuring

  1. Measure your wrist:
    Wrap a piece of string or a soft measuring tape around your wrist to find your size. Add about half an inch to this measurement to ensure the bracelet fits comfortably without being too tight.
  2. Prepare the elastic:
    Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This extra length will give you plenty of room to tie a secure knot later without struggling with tiny ends.
  3. Pre-stretch the cord:
    Hold the ends of the elastic and give it a few firm tugs. Pre-stretching helps prevent the bracelet from loosening up and sagging after you’ve worn it a few times.
  4. Secure the end:
    Attach a bead stopper or simply tape one end of the cord to your work surface. This little safety measure saves you from the tragedy of beads sliding right off the other end while you work.

Step 2: Creating the Pattern

  1. Start the first color block:
    Begin by threading 5 mint green clay disc beads onto the elastic. Group them closely so they sit flush against each other.
  2. Add a gold accent:
    Slide on one gold nugget spacer. These spacers act as the visual break between your color blocks, adding that flash of warmth.
  3. Introduce the second color:
    Thread on 5 pastel lavender clay beads. Make sure the count matches the first section to keep the symmetry consistent.
  4. Second gold spacer:
    Add another gold nugget spacer after the lavender section.
  5. Add the third color:
    Now string on 5 baby pink clay beads. This completes one full cycle of the ‘sorbet’ color palette: mint, lavender, pink.
  6. Complete the sequence:
    Place a gold spacer after the pink beads. Your core repeating pattern is now established: 5 color beads, 1 gold spacer.

Knot Too Big?

If your knot won’t fit inside the gold spacer bead, try ending your pattern next to a clay bead instead—the clay is slightly flexible and can sometimes accommodate a knot better than metal.

Step 3: Building the Bracelet

  1. Repeat the pattern:
    Continue adding sections in order: Mint (5 beads), Gold (1 bead), Lavender (5 beads), Gold (1 bead), Pink (5 beads), Gold (1 bead). Repeat this cycle until you reach your desired length.
  2. Check the symmetry:
    Periodically pause and check your pattern. It’s easy to get into a rhythm and accidentally add an extra bead or skip a color.
  3. Test the fit:
    Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist. The ends should meet comfortably with no gaps, sitting just how you like it.
  4. Final adjustments:
    If the length is slightly off, add or remove a few beads from the final section. Ideally, try to end the pattern right after a gold spacer so the join looks seamless when tied.

Level Up With Charms

Add a dangling gold seashell or star charm to one of the spacer sections. Just attach it with a small jump ring next to a gold nugget for extra beachy vibes.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

  1. Tie the first knot:
    Remove the tape or clip. carefully holding both ends of the elastic. Bring them together and tie a simple overhand knot, pulling it gently but firmly so the beads bunch together snugly.
  2. Secure with a surgeon’s knot:
    For the main securing knot, tie a surgeon’s knot. This is just like a standard square knot, but you loop the elastic through twice before pulling tight. This adds extra friction and security.
  3. Apply adhesive:
    Dab a tiny drop of super glue or jewelry cement directly onto the knot. I usually stretch the knot slightly open to let the glue seep into the fibers.
  4. Hide the knot:
    While the glue is still wet, quickly slide the nearest gold spacer bead over the knot. If the hole is large enough, the knot will disappear inside for a professional finish.
  5. Trim the excess:
    Once the glue is fully dry (wait at least a few minutes), use sharp scissors to trim the excess elastic tails close to the bead.

Slip on your new pastel creation and enjoy the fresh pop of color it brings to your wrist stack

Neon Color-Blocked Heishi Bracelet

Neon color-blocked heishi bracelet in pink, orange, and green on pool-blue backdrop.
Neon color-blocked heishi bracelet in pink, orange, and green on pool-blue backdrop.

Brighten up your summer wrist stack with this vibrant, color-blocked necklace-style bracelet. Using polymer clay disc beads in striking neon pink, green, and orange, this project mimics the look of high-end resort wear with its structured pattern and gold-tone clasp.

How-To Guide

Materials

  • 6mm Heishi polymer clay disc beads (Neon Pink)
  • 6mm Heishi polymer clay disc beads (Lime Green)
  • 6mm Heishi polymer clay disc beads (Bright Orange)
  • Elastic beading cord (0.8mm clear)
  • Gold-plated lobster clasp
  • Gold-plated extension chain
  • 2 Gold-plated crimp beads (or crimp covers)
  • 2 Gold jump rings (4mm or 5mm)
  • Jewelry pliers (flat nose and/or crimping pliers)
  • Scissors

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

  1. Measure your cord:
    Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This generous length makes it much easier to tie knots and attach hardware at the end without struggling.
  2. Secure the start:
    Thread one gold crimp bead onto the cord, followed by a gold jump ring. Loop the cord back through the crimp bead to create a small loop holding the jump ring.
  3. Crimping down:
    Use your flat nose pliers to squash the crimp bead firmly. Give the jump ring a little tug to ensure it’s secure; this will be the anchor for your clasp later.
  4. Analyze the pattern:
    This bracelet uses a specific blocking pattern. The sequence is: A large block of pink (approx 8 beads), one orange, a small block of green (approx 4 beads), one orange. I find it helpful to lay this out on a bead board first so I don’t lose track.

Tension Trick

Before crimping the final end, curl the bracelet into a circle shape. This ensures there’s just enough slack for the beads to span the curve without gaps appearing.

Step 2: Beading the Pattern

  1. Start with pink:
    Thread on approximately 7-8 neon pink discs. This creates the main ‘body’ color of the segment.
  2. Add the first spacer:
    Slide on a single bright orange bead. This acts as a divider between your larger color blocks.
  3. The green block:
    Thread on about 3-4 lime green beads. This smaller block provides a sharp, acidic contrast to the pink.
  4. Close the segment:
    Finish this pattern unit with one more single orange bead. You have now completed one full repeating segment.
  5. Repeat the sequence:
    Start again with 7-8 pink beads, followed by one orange, 3-4 green, and one orange. Continue this pattern until the beaded section measures about 6 to 6.5 inches, or fits your wrist comfortably.
  6. Check consistency:
    Periodically hold the bracelet up to check your tension. The beads should sit flush against each other but not be so tight that the bracelet kinks or buckles.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

  1. Prepare the end:
    Once you’ve reached your desired length, thread on your second crimp bead.
  2. Attach the hardware loop:
    Thread the end of the cord through the loop of the extension chain (or a closed jump ring attached to it), then pass the cord back down through the crimp bead.
  3. Tighten the slack:
    Pull the cord so the beads are snug and the crimp bead is close to the last orange bead. Be careful not to pull it so tight the bracelet becomes stiff.
  4. Secure the end:
    Flatten the crimp bead securely with your pliers.
  5. Final trim:
    Cut off any excess elastic cord close to the crimp bead. If you like extra security, you can add a tiny drop of jewelry glue to the crimp bead before trimming.
  6. Attach the clasp:
    Open the jump ring you attached at the very beginning (using two pairs of pliers to twist, not pull apart) and slide on the lobster clasp. Close the jump ring securely.

Make it Gold

Replace the single orange divider beads with small gold heishi spacers or 3mm gold filled balls for a more luxurious, metallic look that shines in the sun.

Your pool-ready accessory is complete and ready to be stacked with other favorites

“Summer” Letter Bead Centerpiece

Sunset-toned clay bead bracelet with SUMMER letter centerpiece, styled minimalist on linen
Sunset-toned clay bead bracelet with SUMMER letter centerpiece, styled minimalist on linen

Capture the warmth and vibrancy of the season with this cheerful clay bead bracelet. Featuring a sunny palette of Heishi beads and bold letter blocks, this accessory is the perfect way to wear a little piece of summer on your wrist.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Materials

  • Polymer clay Heishi beads (yellow/mustard, orange, coral/red, pink, pale green, white)
  • White square letter beads (S, U, M, M, E, R)
  • Gold lobster clasp
  • Gold jump rings (open)
  • Gold crimp beads (2mm)
  • Gold crimp bead covers (3mm, optional)
  • Elastic beading cord (0.8mm for stretch) or beading wire (for non-stretch)
  • Jewelry pliers (chain nose and flat nose)
  • Scissors or wire cutters
  • Bead design board or masking tape
  • Ruler or measuring tape

Step 1: Planning the Palette

  1. Measure your wrist:
    Before cutting any string, measure your wrist and add about half an inch for a comfortable fit. For a standard fit, aim for a total length of 6.5 to 7 inches.
  2. Prepare the cord:
    Cut a piece of beading wire or elastic cord about 10 inches long. Having extra length makes it much easier to tie knots or attach clasps later without fumbling.
  3. Secure the end:
    If you are using beading wire, thread a crimp bead and one half of the clasp onto the end. Loop the wire back through the crimp bead and use your flat nose pliers to squash it flat.
  4. Layout the centerpiece:
    Find your ‘S-U-M-M-E-R’ letter beads. Lay them out on a bead design board or a flat surface to ensure they are clean and legible before stringing.
  5. Design the color block:
    Visualize the color gradients. This design uses distinct blocks of color. I like to arrange small piles of beads—mustard yellow, orange, coral red, and mixed pastels—to make grabbing them easier.

Use a Tape Trick

Tape one end of your string to the table before starting. This stops beads from sliding off the back end while you work on your pattern.

Step 2: Stringing the Design

  1. Start with the left side:
    Begin stringing from the clasp side. Start with a mix of pastel colors (pinks and greens) for about an inch to create a playful, confetti-like beginning.
  2. Creating the yellow block:
    Switch to a solid block of mustard yellow beads. Thread on approximately 10-12 beads, depending on how bold you want this section to be.
  3. Add the first letter:
    Slide on the letter ‘S’. Ensure it is facing the correct direction relative to how you want to read it on your wrist.
  4. Complete the word:
    Continue adding the letters U, M, M, E, and R. Double-check the spelling; it’s easy to accidentally swap an ‘M’ or ‘W’!
  5. Red/Coral accent:
    Immediately after the letter ‘R’, switch to a deep coral or red color. Thread on about 6-8 beads to create a strong contrast against the white letter block.
  6. Orange transition:
    Transition into a bright orange section. Add roughly 10 beads here to warm up the palette.
  7. Pink segment:
    Follow the orange with a soft pink section. Use about 8-10 beads to begin cooling down the color temperature slightly.
  8. Finish with mixed pastels:
    Fill the remaining length of the bracelet with a random mix of the previous colors plus pale green and white, mirroring the style near the clasp.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

  1. Check the fit:
    Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist. If it feels too tight, add a few more mixed beads to the ends; if too loose, remove a couple.
  2. Add the closing hardware:
    Thread a crimp bead onto the wire, followed by a jump ring (attached to the other side of your clasp or just a ring for the lobster claw to grab).
  3. Create the loop:
    Pass the wire back through the crimp bead and pull it tight, but leave a tiny bit of slack so the bracelet acts like fabric rather than a stiff hoop.
  4. Secure the crimp:
    Use your pliers to flatten the crimp bead firmly. Give the wire a gentle tug to ensure it won’t slip out.
  5. Hide the crimp (optional):
    If you have crimp covers, gently close one over the flattened crimp bead using your pliers for a polished, professional gold ball look.
  6. Trim excess wire:
    Snip off the excess tail of the wire as close to the bead as possible, or tuck the tail back into the first few clay beads before trimming.

Add Golden glamour

Insert a gold spacer disc between every color change or between each letter bead to add a hint of metallic shine to the design.

Enjoy the sunny vibes of your new handmade jewelry every time you glance at your wrist

Cowrie Shell Charm With Turquoise Heishi

Turquoise and white clay heishi bracelet with a cowrie charm, perfect for summer layering.
Turquoise and white clay heishi bracelet with a cowrie charm, perfect for summer layering.

Transport yourself to a sandy beach with this breezy summer accessory that combines the organic texture of a cowrie shell with the vibrant punch of turquoise. This design alternates creamy whites and ocean blues with golden accents for a sophisticated surf-inspired look.

Step-by-Step

Materials

  • Turquoise heishi or round spacer beads (approx. 4-6mm)
  • White or cream heishi clay beads
  • Gold spherical spacer beads (3mm or 4mm)
  • Small gold cowrie shell charm (or natural shell with bail)
  • Gold-plated jump rings (4mm and 6mm)
  • Beading wire (flexible, 7-strand or 19-strand)
  • Gold crimp beads
  • Gold crimp bead covers (optional)
  • Lobster clasp
  • Extension chain piece (approx. 1-2 inches)
  • Wire cutters
  • Crimping pliers
  • Flat nose pliers

Step 1: Planning the Pattern

  1. Measure your wrist:
    Before cutting any wire, measure your wrist (or ankle) and add about half an inch for a comfortable fit. The extension chain will provide extra adjustability later.
  2. Cut the wire:
    Cut a length of beading wire that is about 4 inches longer than your final desired length to give yourself plenty of room to work with the clasps.
  3. Lay out the charm:
    Place your cowrie shell charm in the center of your bead board or work surface. This will be the focal point from which the symmetrical pattern extends outward.
  4. Design the center section:
    To frame the charm, plan to use a gold spacer bead immediately on either side of the shell, followed by a series of turquoise beads.

Pro Tip: Wire Guard

Use gold wire guards at the ends where the wire loops onto the clasp. It prevents abrasion and gives it a professional, finished jewelry look.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

  1. Secure the first end:
    Thread a crimp bead onto one end of the wire, followed by a soldered jump ring or the loop of your extension chain.
  2. Crimp the loop:
    Loop the wire back through the crimp bead and use your crimping pliers to flatten it securely. I like to double-check this connection with a gentle tug.
  3. Start with the white section:
    Begin stringing with your white heishi beads. Thread on approximately 1.5 to 2 inches of pure white beads to create the back section of the bracelet.
  4. Transition to turquoise:
    After the white section, add one gold spacer bead, one turnover bead (white), and then start your turquoise pattern.
  5. Create the alternating pattern:
    String an alternating pattern of turquoise and white beads. For example: two turquoise, one white, two turquoise, one white. Do this for about an inch.
  6. Build the focal color block:
    Switch to solid turquoise beads as you approach the center. String about 5-6 turquoise beads.
  7. Add gold accents:
    Slide on a gold spherical spacer bead, then three more turquoise beads, then another gold spacer.
  8. Attach the charm:
    String on your cowrie shell charm. Ensure the bail slides freely on the wire.
  9. Mirror the pattern:
    Now, reverse the steps you just took. Add a gold spacer, three turquoise beads, a gold spacer, and then your block of 5-6 turquoise beads.
  10. Continue the symmetry:
    Return to the alternating pattern: one white, two turquoise, repeat until this section matches the first side.
  11. Finish with white:
    End the beading with a matching 1.5 to 2-inch section of pure white heishi beads.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

  1. Check the fit:
    Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist to verify the length is correct before sealing the second end.
  2. Prepare the clasp:
    Thread a crimp bead onto the remaining wire end, followed by the lobster clasp.
  3. Secure the end:
    Pass the wire back through the crimp bead and pull it taut (but not stiff—leave a tiny bit of slack for flexibility).
  4. Final crimp:
    Use your crimping pliers to secure the crimp bead firmly.
  5. Hide the tail:
    Feed the excess wire tail back through the first few white beads next to the clasp, then trim the wire flush with your cutters.
  6. Cover crimps (optional):
    If you are using crimp bead covers, gently close them over your crimp beads using flat nose pliers for a seamless gold finish.

Level Up: Layered Look

Make a second strand using only the white heishi beads and incorporate scattered gold letters to spell a word like ‘SUMMER’ or ‘ALOHA’.

Enjoy wearing your handcrafted piece of coastal elegance all season long

Starfish Charm and Sandy Neutrals

Sandy-neutral heishi bracelet with a simple starfish charm, bright sun and soft boho minimalism.
Sandy-neutral heishi bracelet with a simple starfish charm, bright sun and soft boho minimalism.

Capture the calm of the beach with this elegant bracelet featuring sandy neutrals and soft peachy clay discs. A delicate gold starfish charm adds the perfect nautical finish to this sophisticated summer accessory.

Step-by-Step Guide

Materials

  • Polymer clay heishi disc beads (colors: white, cream/beige, peach/terracotta)
  • Small gold starfish charm
  • Gold jump ring (4mm or 5mm)
  • Gold spacer beads (spherical, approx. 3-4mm)
  • Elastic stretch cord (0.5mm clear)
  • Jewelry glue or clear nail polish
  • Scissors or jewelry nippers
  • Crimping beads (optional, for extra security)
  • Bead stopper or tape

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

  1. Measure your wrist:
    Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room for tying knots later without struggling with short ends.
  2. Secure the end:
    Attach a bead stopper or simply tape one end of the cord to your work surface. This prevents your beads from sliding off while you design.
  3. Sort your palette:
    Organize your clay discs into three piles: clean white, a sandy beige or cream, and a warm peach or terracotta. Having them separated makes the pattern work much faster.

Knot Security Pro-Tip

For maximum security, try to hide your knot inside the larger hole of the gold spacer bead. Add a drop of glue inside that bead to permanently lock the knot in place.

Step 2: Creating the Pattern

  1. Start the sequence:
    Begin by threading a gold spherical spacer bead onto the cord. This will act as a nice bookend near the clasp area.
  2. Build the first color block:
    Add about 6-8 beads of the white clay discs. The exact number isn’t strict, but try to keep the blocks somewhat uniform.
  3. Transition to cool neutrals:
    Follow the white section with a block of the sandy beige beads. Use approximately the same number of beads (6-8) to maintain visual balance.
  4. Add warmth:
    String on a section of the peach/terracotta beads. I personally love how this color warms up the neutral palette.
  5. Repeat the pattern:
    Continue repeating this white-beige-peach sequence. Aim for an organic feel; precision isn’t critical, so don’t worry if one section has one extra bead.
  6. Check the length:
    Periodically wrap the strand around your wrist. Stop adding color blocks when you are about 3/4 of the way around your wrist size.

Level Up: Texture Mix

Swap smooth gold spacers for brushed gold or textured beads. It adds a high-end, artisanal feel that contrasts beautifully with the matte clay.

Step 3: Adding the Focal Charm

  1. Position the charm:
    Identify where you want your starfish to hang. In this design, it sits asymmetrically between color blocks rather than strictly in the center.
  2. Attach the jump ring:
    While stringing, pause between a beige and peach section. Open your jump ring with pliers, slide the starfish charm onto it, and close it securely.
  3. Thread the charm:
    Slide the jump ring directly onto the elastic cord just like a bead. Ensure the starfish faces outward.
  4. Complete the circle:
    Finish stringing your pattern until the bracelet comfortably encircles your wrist without stretching the elastic.
  5. Add the final gold bead:
    End the strand with a second gold spherical spacer bead to match the beginning.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

  1. Pre-stretch the cord:
    Gently pull tightly on both ends of the elastic cord a few times. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelet from sagging the first time you wear it.
  2. Tie the knot:
    Remove the tape or stopper. Tie a standard square knot first (left over right, right over left). Pull tight.
  3. Secure with surgeon’s knot:
    Follow up with a surgeon’s knot—this is like a regular overhand knot but you loop the end through twice before pulling tight.
  4. Glue the knot:
    Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish squarely onto the knot. Let it dry completely before touching it.
  5. Trim the ends:
    Once the glue is dry, trim the excess elastic as close to the knot as possible without nicking the knot itself.
  6. Hide the knot:
    Ideally, gently tug the bracelet so the knot slides inside one of the adjacent gold spacer beads to conceal it.

Slip on your new bracelet and enjoy the breezy, coastal vibe it brings to your outfit

Pearl Accents for Beachy Glow

Beachy heishi clay bead stack with pearl accents, glowing softly in warm summer light
Beachy heishi clay bead stack with pearl accents, glowing softly in warm summer light

Capture the essence of a sun-soaked afternoon with this trio of textured bracelets featuring soft clay discs, natural wood accents, and creamy pearl-like beads. This stack combines matte finishes with touches of gold for a relaxed yet elegant accessory perfect for beach days.

Step-by-Step

Materials

  • Elastic stretch cord (0.7mm or 0.8mm)
  • 6mm Heishi clay disc beads in coral pink
  • 8mm round wood beads (light natural tone)
  • 8mm round creamy white beads (acrylic, stone, or shell pearl)
  • Small gold spacer beads (round)
  • Gold tube spacer bead with textured detail
  • Gold focal beads (large hole)
  • Jewelry glue (e.g., G-S Hypo Cement)
  • Scissors

Step 1: The Coral Clay Strand

  1. Prepare the cord:
    Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. Give it a gentle pre-stretch to prevent your bracelet from loosening later.
  2. Start beading:
    Begin threading the coral pink Heishi clay disc beads. String enough to cover about half of your desired bracelet length, usually around 3 inches for an average wrist.
  3. Add the centerpiece:
    Slide on a textured gold tube spacer bead. This will act as the focal point for this specific strand.
  4. Finish the pattern:
    Continue stringing the coral Heishi beads on the other side of the gold tube until you reach your total desired length (typically 6.5 to 7 inches).
  5. Secure the ends:
    Tie a surrealist knot or a square knot pulled tight. Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue on the knot, let it dry for a moment, and trim the excess cord carefully.

Knot Hiding Trick

Make your finish look seamless by sliding the final knot inside the hole of a large-bore bead (like the wood ones) before the glue fully hardens.

Step 2: The Pearl & Wood Mix

  1. Design the sequence:
    Cut another length of elastic cord. For this strand, you are creating a pattern that alternates textures.
  2. Create the focal section:
    Thread three creamy white beads onto the center of the cord. Between the first and second white bead, add a small gold round spacer. Between the second and third, add another gold spacer to separate them.
  3. Transition to wood:
    On either side of your white bead section, begin adding the light wood beads. I find that placing a single heishi bead or gold spacer before starting the wood adds a nice professional transition.
  4. Fill the length:
    Continue adding wood beads to both sides evenly until the bracelet wraps comfortably around your wrist.
  5. Knot and finish:
    Tie off this bracelet securely using a square knot, apply your adhesive to the knot, and trim the tails close.

Gaping Beads?

If you see cord showing between beads, your elastic is too loose. Remake the knot but compress the beads tightly together before tightening the final loop.

Step 3: The Mixed Accent Strand

  1. Lay out the pattern:
    This final bracelet combines all elements. Cut your third piece of elastic cord.
  2. Central feature:
    Thread a single, large round coral bead (matching the Heishi color) as the center. Flank it immediately with two medium-sized gold round beads.
  3. Add contrast:
    On one side of the gold accents, thread three to four creamy white beads. On the other side, thread a small section of wood beads.
  4. Incorporate texture:
    Thread a small section of the flat coral Heishi beads (about 1 inch) on the side with the wood beads.
  5. Balance the design:
    Fill the remainder of the strand with the creamy white beads or wood beads until the length matches the previous two bracelets.
  6. Final closure:
    Double-check the sizing against the other completed bracelets. Tie your secure knot, glue, and trim.

Slide on your new stack and enjoy the warm, breezy vibes they bring to any outfit

Watermelon Colorway With Tiny Breaks

Watermelon heishi clay bead bracelet with tiny breaks and seed beads for a fresh summer look.
Watermelon heishi clay bead bracelet with tiny breaks and seed beads for a fresh summer look.

Capture the sweetest part of summer with this playful bracelet that mimics the refreshing look of a watermelon slice. Using a mix of pink heishi beads, speckled green accents, and charming seed charms, this accessory adds a juicy pop of color to any wrist stack.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Materials

  • Elastic beading cord (0.5mm or 0.8mm)
  • Pink polymer clay heishi beads (disc beads)
  • White or cream polymer clay heishi beads
  • 4 Green round stone or dyed lava beads (approx 6-8mm)
  • Black and cream striped/spotted accent beads (clay or resin)
  • 2 small round white charms or flat beads for painting
  • Black acrylic paint and a fine-tip brush (or a black permanent marker)
  • 2 gold jump rings (4-6mm)
  • Gold tone crimp beads or knot covers
  • Jewelry clasp and extender chain set
  • Jewelry pliers (needle nose and flat nose)
  • Scissors

Step 1: Preparation & Charms

  1. Prepare the seed charms:
    If you don’t have pre-made spotted charms, take two plain white round flat beads or drop charms. Using a very fine brush and black acrylic paint, dab 3-5 small, irregular dots onto the lower half of the charm to mimic watermelon seeds.
  2. Seal the design:
    Allow the paint to dry completely. I like to add a quick coat of clear nail polish or glaze over the dots to keep them from scratching off during wear.
  3. Attach jump rings:
    Once dry, use your pliers to open two gold jump rings. Slide one charm onto each ring and gently twist the rings closed, ensuring the gap is tight so the charm doesn’t slip off.
  4. Measure the cord:
    Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This generous length gives you plenty of room to tie knots or attach clasps without struggling.
  5. Secure the end:
    Tape one end of the elastic to your table or attach a bead stopper clip to prevent your beads from sliding off while you design.

Knot Slipping?

If using a standard knot instead of crimps, dab a tiny drop of superglue or clear nail polish onto the knot before pulling it tight into a bead hole.

Step 2: Beading the Pattern

  1. Start the ‘rind’:
    Begin threading on the clasp side. Add a gold crimp bead (if using wire guards) or simply start with your first pattern section: 5-8 white heishi beads followed by a thin black spacer bead.
  2. Add the green layer:
    Thread on one larger white heishi bead, then a patterned accent bead (black/white), and then two of the green round beads. These represent the watermelon’s outer rind.
  3. Begin the pink flesh:
    Thread on approximately 10-12 pink heishi beads. This creates the main body of color for the bracelet.
  4. Insert an interrupted bead:
    Break up the pink section by adding one of the striped black accent beads. This keeps the design dynamic and adds a graphic touch.
  5. Continue the pink section:
    Add another long section of pink heishi beads, roughly matching the length of the first pink section.
  6. Place the charms:
    Slide the first charm (via its jump ring) onto the cord. Add 2-3 pink heishi beads as a spacer, then slide on the second charm. The uneven spacing looks more organic.
  7. Finish the pink run:
    Add a final long section of pink heishi beads, followed by one more black striped accent bead.
  8. Mirror the rind:
    Finish the beadwork by mirroring the start: add two green round beads and a small stack of white heishi beads.

Style Variation

Swap the round green stone beads for lime green polymer clay discs if you want the bracelet to lay completely flat on your wrist.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

  1. Check the fit:
    Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist. If it feels too tight, add a few more white heishi beads to the ends.
  2. Attach the hardware:
    Thread a crimp bead onto the end, loop the cord through the loop of your lobster clasp, and thread it back through the crimp bead.
  3. Secure the crimp:
    Use flat nose pliers to squash the crimp bead firmly. Repeat this process on the other end, attaching the extender chain instead of the clasp.
  4. Trim excess cord:
    Snip off the excess elastic tail close to the crimp bead. If you prefer a cleaner look, you can cover the crimps with gold crimp covers.

Now you have a vibrant, juicy accessory perfect for beach days or backyard barbecues.

Citrus Palette Heishi Bracelet Trio

Bright citrus heishi clay bracelet trio in lemon, lime, and orange for easy summer stacking
Bright citrus heishi clay bracelet trio in lemon, lime, and orange for easy summer stacking

Bring a fresh burst of color to your summer wardrobe with this delightful set of stretch bracelets. Featuring a sunny palette of lemon yellow, lime green, and vibrant tangerine, these stackable accessories rely on the satisfying texture of heishi clay beads and elegant gold accents.

How-To Guide

Materials

  • 6mm Heishi clay beads in lemon yellow
  • 6mm Heishi clay beads in lime green
  • 6mm Heishi clay beads in tangerine orange
  • 4mm round gold spacer beads (seamless or plated)
  • 0.8mm clear elastic stretch cord
  • Jewelry glue or clear nail polish
  • Scissors

Step 1: Measuring and Prep

  1. Measure your wrist:
    Using a flexible measuring tape, wrap it snugly around your wrist and note the measurement. Add about 0.5 inches to this number to determine your finished bracelet length, ensuring a comfortable fit that isn’t too tight.
  2. Cut the cord:
    Cut three pieces of elastic cord, each measuring about 10-12 inches. I always prefer to cut more than I need because having extra slack makes the final knotting process frustratingly simple rather than simply frustrating.
  3. Pre-stretch the elastic:
    Holding both ends of a cut cord, give it a few gentle tugs. This pre-stretches the material so your bracelet won’t sag or loosen immediately after your first wear.
  4. Secure the end:
    Place a piece of tape or a bead stopper on one end of each cord to prevent your beads from sliding off while you work.

Keep It Smooth

Check heishi beads for rough edges before stringing. Discard any uneven or jagged discs, as they can scratch the skin or fray the elastic over time.

Step 2: Stringing the Lemon & Lime Bracelets

  1. Start the yellow strand:
    Begin threading your lemon yellow heishi beads onto the first cord. It helps to pick up a few at a time if you can, speeding up the process.
  2. Add first gold accent:
    Once you have strung about one-third of your total length, slide on one 4mm gold spacer bead.
  3. Continue beading:
    Continue adding yellow beads until you have completed another third of the bracelet.
  4. Add second gold accent:
    Add a second gold spacer bead. This creates a balanced look where the gold flecks appear randomly as the bracelet rotates on your wrist.
  5. Finish the yellow length:
    Fill the remaining length with yellow beads until you reach your target size.
  6. Repeat for green:
    Follow the exact same pattern for the lime green bracelet: string one-third green beads, one gold spacer, one-third green beads, another gold spacer, and finish with green beads.

Step 3: Creating the Tangerine Feature Piece

  1. Begin the orange strand:
    For the orange bracelet, which features a distinct focal point, thread tangerine beads until the strand measures nearly the full length of your wrist minus one inch.
  2. Create the gold focal point:
    Instead of spacing them out, thread four 4mm gold spacer beads right next to each other. This cluster creates the shiny metallic bar shown in the foreground.
  3. Check sizing:
    Wrap the strand around your wrist to verify fit over the wrist bone. Add or remove a few orange clay beads if necessary to ensure it sits comfortably with the gold cluster centered.

Knot Slipping?

If your elastic knot keeps untying before you can glue it, try clamping the very first loop with a binder clip or hemostat while you tie the second part of the knot.

Step 4: Finishing and Tying

  1. Prepare the knot:
    Remove the tape or stop-bead from the first bracelet. Bring both ends of the elastic together carefully.
  2. Tie a surgeon’s knot:
    Cross the ends, wrap one end around the other twice (instead of just once like a standard overhand knot), and pull tight. This extra wrap provides much better security for slippery elastic.
  3. Secure with glue:
    While holding tension on the knot, apply a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Let it dry for a moment.
  4. Hide the knot:
    Trim the excess cord ends close to the knot (but not touching it). If the hole of a neighboring bead is large enough, gently tug the elastic to pull the knot inside a bead to hide it.
  5. Repeat for all strands:
    Perform the knotting, gluing, and trimming steps for the remaining two bracelets to complete your citrus trio.

Slide on your new stack of bracelets and enjoy the bright pop of summer color against your wrist

Tropical Flower Beads Mixed Into Heishi

Colorful heishi clay bead bracelet with tropical flower accents and soft leafy summer backdrop.
Colorful heishi clay bead bracelet with tropical flower accents and soft leafy summer backdrop.

Capture the essence of a serene beach day with this vibrant yet minimalist anklet. Featuring creamy white heishi beads interrupted by deliberate splashes of bold color, it perfectly balances relaxation and fun.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Materials

  • 4mm or 5mm white polymer clay heishi beads (about 1 strand)
  • 4mm or 5mm heishi beads in assorted colors: hot pink, turquoise, yellow, orange, red, and beige/tan
  • Elastic stretch cord (0.5mm or 0.8mm clear)
  • Gold finish crimp bead cover (optional)
  • Gold tone jump rings and lobster clasp (or just tie a knot for a simpler version)
  • Beading needle (optional but helpful)
  • Scissors
  • Super glue or jewelry cement
  • Bead stopper or tape

Step 1: Planning the Pattern

  1. Measure your wrist or ankle:
    Decide if you are making a loose bracelet or an anklet. Wrap a piece of string around your wrist or ankle to find the comfortable length, then add about 2 inches to this measurement for tying.
  2. Cut the cord:
    Cut your elastic cord according to your measurement. It is always better to have a little too much string than not enough.
  3. Secure the end:
    Attach a bead stopper to one end of the elastic cord, or simply tape it down to your table so your beads don’t slide off while you work.
  4. Establish the rhythm:
    The key to this design is irregularity within a structure. I like to layout my beads on a mat first. Aim for sections of 3-7 white beads separating colorful accent sections.

Smooth Operator

Pre-stretch your elastic cord before stringing. Give it a few firm tugs; this prevents the bracelet from drooping or stretching out permanently after wearing it.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

  1. Start with gold:
    Begin by threading a small gold spacer or a crimp bead if you plan to use hardware. If just knotting, start directly with the clay beads.
  2. Thread the first white section:
    String on about 5 to 8 white heishi beads. This creates a clean, neutral base.
  3. Add a color pop:
    Slide on a contrasting sequence, such as one turquoise bead followed by a beige/tan bead.
  4. Return to white:
    Add another block of white beads. Vary the number slightly—perhaps use 4 beads this time—to keep the organic feel.
  5. Create a bold stripe:
    String a more complex color pattern, like hot pink, tan, turquoise, and yellow, all touching each other.
  6. Continue the pattern:
    Work your way around the string, alternating between white sections and colorful accents. Don’t be afraid to throw in a random single red or orange bead in the middle of a white section.
  7. Check the length:
    Periodically wrap the strand around your wrist or ankle to check the sizing. The beads take up space, so it will fit tighter than the bare string did.
  8. Finish the strand:
    End with a section of white beads or a gold spacer to mirror the beginning of the strand.

Step 3: Securing the Bracelet

  1. Prepare the knot:
    Remove the tape or bead stopper carefully. Bring both ends of the elastic together, ensuring there is no slack between the beads.
  2. Tie the knot:
    Tie a standard square knot (right over left, left over right). Pull the elastic tight to secure it.
  3. Reinforce with glue:
    Dab a tiny drop of super glue or jewelry cement directly onto the knot. Let this dry for a minute.
  4. Hide the knot:
    If possible, gently tug the knot inside the hole of one of the adjacent heishi beads to hide it seamlessly.
  5. Trim the excess:
    Use your scissors to trim the excess elastic tail, being careful not to cut the main knot.

Sticky Situation

If the knot is too bulky to hide inside a bead, use a crimp bead cover over the knot. Gently squeeze it shut with pliers for a professional, finished look.

Slip this colorful piece on and enjoy the effortless summer vibe it adds to your outfit

Sea Glass-Inspired Soft Cool Tones

Sea-glass cool tones: a simple clay bead bracelet in aqua, teal, and cloudy white
Sea-glass cool tones: a simple clay bead bracelet in aqua, teal, and cloudy white

Capture the essence of a serene beach day with this cool-toned beaded bracelet. Featuring soft whites, refreshing mints, and textured stone greys, this design mimics the look of tumbled sea glass and foamy ocean waves.

How-To Guide

Materials

  • 12mm silicone or polymer clay round beads (White)
  • 12mm silicone or polymer clay round beads (Mint Green)
  • 12mm silicone or polymer clay round beads (Teal/Sea Blue)
  • 12mm textured stone or granite-effect round beads (Grey/Green)
  • 1mm white nylon cord or waxed cotton cord (approx. 20 inches)
  • 2 small wooden accent beads (6mm or 8mm)
  • Scissors
  • Lighter (for sealing nylon cord ends)

Step 1: Preparation & Bead Selection

  1. Measure the cord:
    Cut a length of your white nylon cord, roughly 18 to 20 inches long. This gives you plenty of slack for knotting later on.
  2. Plan your pattern:
    Lay out your beads on a bead board or soft cloth to visualize the sequence. Aim for an organic mix rather than a strict repeating pattern.
  3. Create a gradient effect:
    For the specific look in the photo, try alternating between solid colors and the textured stone beads. I like to place the darker teal beads opposite each other on the circle for balance.
  4. Prepare the ends:
    Lightly singe both ends of the cord with a lighter to prevent fraying and make threading easier. Be careful not to burn the cord, just melt the tip slightly.

Smoother Bead Threading

If your cord is struggling to go through the bead holes, put a tiny dab of clear nail polish on the cord tip and let it dry stiff to create a built-in needle.

Step 2: Stringing the Design

  1. Start threading:
    Begin stringing your chosen beads onto the cord. Keep the larger, main beads in the center section of the cord.
  2. Check the length:
    Once you have about 14-16 beads strung (or roughly 6-7 inches of beaded length), wrap it around your wrist to check the fit. Ideally, the ends of the bead row should almost touch on the underside of your wrist.
  3. Secure the beads:
    Group the beads tightly together in the middle of the cord so there are no gaps between them.

Step 3: Creating the Closure

  1. Form the circle:
    Bring the two loose ends of the cord together, crossing them over each other to form a circle.
  2. Start the sliding knot:
    You can either make a simple sliding knot or a square macrame knot. For a square knot, you will need a separate scrap piece of cord about 6 inches long.
  3. Tie the square knot:
    Hold the two main bracelet cords parallel. Lay the scrap cord under them. Tie a sequence of square knots (left over right, right over left) around the parallel cords for about half an inch.
  4. Trim the closure:
    Pull the knot tight. Trim the excess tails of the *knotting* cord (not the bracelet cords) and carefully singe them to seal the slider mechanism.
  5. Test the slide:
    Gently pull the main bracelet cords to ensure they slide smoothly back and forth through the knot you just created.

Scent Infusion

Use porous wooden or lava stone beads for the accents. Add a drop of essential oil like eucalyptus or sea salt fragrance to turn your jewelry into a diffuser.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

  1. Add accent beads:
    On each of the hanging tail cords, thread one small wooden bead. These act as stoppers so the cord doesn’t slip through the knot.
  2. Tie end knots:
    Tie a simple overhand knot immediately after each wooden bead.
  3. Trim and seal:
    Cut off any excess cord past the final knots and give them a quick singe with the lighter to secure them permanently.

Enjoy wearing your new bracelet that perfectly channels the calming vibes of the coast

Confetti Sprinkle Pool Party Heishi

Confetti heishi bracelet on pool-blue backdrop, simple summer sparkle with handmade charm.
Confetti heishi bracelet on pool-blue backdrop, simple summer sparkle with handmade charm.

Capture the essence of a summer pool party with this mostly-white bracelet that features delightful pops of bright color. It mimics the look of confetti scattered on a white tablecloth, making it a perfect subtle accessory for sunny days.

Step-by-Step

Materials

  • White seed beads (size 6/0 or 8/0) – glass or ceramic
  • Assorted colorful seed beads (red, yellow, turquoise, royal blue, purple, pink, etc.)
  • Beading wire (e.g., 0.38mm or 0.45mm)
  • Small gold lobster clasp
  • Gold jump rings (open, approx 4-5mm)
  • Gold crimp beads (2)
  • Crimping pliers
  • Wire cutters
  • Bead stopper or tape

Step 1: Planning the Pattern

  1. Measure the wire:
    Cut a piece of beading wire roughly 9 to 10 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room to work with the clasp without struggling against a tight strand.
  2. Secure the end:
    Attach a bead stopper or a piece of masking tape to one end of the wire so your beads don’t slide right off while you work.
  3. Observe the randomness:
    Take a moment to look at your colorful beads. The charm of this design is that the colors aren’t in a perfect rainbow order; some are close together, others are separated by long stretches of white. Aim for ‘calculated randomness’.

Clean Crimp Tip

Feed the excess tail wire through the first 2-3 beads before trimming. This hides the sharp wire end inside the beads so it won’t scratch your wrist.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

  1. Start with white:
    Feed about 6 to 8 white seed beads onto the wire to begin. This creates a clean start near the clasp area.
  2. Add the first pop of color:
    Choose a bright color, like turquoise or pink, and thread one single colored bead onto the wire.
  3. Create a white section:
    Add a section of white beads. Vary the number—sometimes use 3 white beads, sometimes use 5.
  4. Add a contrasting color:
    Pick a contrasting color, perhaps a deep purple or red, to make the ‘sprinkle’ effect really stand out against the white.
  5. Build a cluster:
    Occasionally, try adding two colored beads separated by just one white bead to create a focused area of color, similar to the purple and yellow section in the photo.
  6. Continue stringing:
    Repeat this process—stringing 3-8 white beads followed by 1 colored bead—until the beaded section measures your desired wrist size used (usually around 6.5 to 7 inches).
  7. Check the fit:
    Wrap the strand around your wrist to verify the length. Remember that the clasp will add about half an inch to the final length, so stop beading slightly before the ends touch.
  8. Finish with white:
    End the pattern with a final run of 6 to 8 white beads to match the beginning of the strand.

Gold Spacer Glam

Elevate the look by adding tiny gold disk spacers on either side of every colored bead to make the colors really pop like jewelry.

Step 3: Attaching the Hardware

  1. Thread the first crimp:
    Remove your tape or stopper. On one end, slide on a gold crimp bead, followed by a gold jump ring.
  2. Loop back:
    Take the tail of the wire and thread it back through the crimp bead, creating a small loop that captures the jump ring.
  3. Secure the crimp:
    Slide the crimp bead close to the white beads (leaving just a little wiggle room so the bracelet isn’t stiff). Use your crimping pliers to flatten the crimp bead securely.
  4. Prepare the second end:
    Repeat the process on the other end: slide on a crimp bead, then the lobster clasp.
  5. Loop and tighten:
    Thread the wire back through the crimp bead and pull it snug. Ensure there are no large gaps between your beads.
  6. Final crimp:
    Flatten the second crimp bead firmly with your pliers.
  7. Trim excess wire:
    Use your wire cutters to trim the excess wire tails as close to the crimp beads as possible without cutting the main wire.

Slip on your new bracelet and enjoy that poolside aesthetic anywhere you go

High-Contrast Black, White, and Neon

Black, white, and neon heishi bracelet that pops in summer sun with crisp minimalist shadows.
Black, white, and neon heishi bracelet that pops in summer sun with crisp minimalist shadows.

This striking bracelet balances the classic simplicity of black and white with electrifying pops of neon pink, green, and blue. It’s a perfect high-contrast accessory that adds a modern edge to any summer outfit.

Detailed Instructions

Materials

  • Heishi clay disc beads (6mm or similar): Black
  • Heishi clay disc beads: White
  • Heishi clay disc beads: Neon Pink
  • Heishi clay disc beads: Neon Lime Green
  • Heishi clay disc beads: Bright Turquoise/Cyan
  • Elastic beading cord (0.8mm or 1mm transparent)
  • Scissors
  • Super glue or jewelry cement (optional)
  • Bead stopper or tape

Step 1: Preparation and Pattern Strategy

  1. Cutting the cord:
    Cut a piece of elastic beading cord to about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room for tying knots later without losing beads.
  2. Securing the end:
    Attach a bead stopper to one end of the cord, or tape it firmly to your table surface to prevent beads from sliding off while you work.
  3. Understanding the logic:
    The pattern alternates between blocks of black or white beads and single neon accent beads to create the high-contrast look.
  4. Pre-stretching:
    I always give the elastic cord a few gentle tugs before starting; this helps prevent the bracelet from stretching out immediately after you wear it.

Knot Hiding Trick

If the knot is too bulky to slide inside a heishi bead, widen the bead’s hole slightly using a hot needle or bead reamer.

Step 2: Stringing the Pattern

  1. Start with white:
    Begin by stringing approximately 8 to 10 white clay disc beads onto the cord.
  2. Add a pink pop:
    Slide on one single neon pink bead followed by another block of about 8 to 10 white beads.
  3. Transition to black:
    Add a single neon pink bead as a separator, then switch to the black beads. Thread on a block of about 10 black beads.
  4. Insert lime green:
    After the black section, add one neon lime green bead to break up the darkness.
  5. White section returns:
    Add a smaller section of white beads, perhaps 5 or 6 discs this time along with another neon lime green bead.
  6. Black section repetition:
    Thread on another substantial block of black beads, roughly 10 discs.
  7. Add the turquoise accent:
    Slide on one bright turquoise bead. This cool tone adds a nice surprise alongside the warmer pinks and greens.
  8. Short white segment:
    Follow the blue bead with a short run of white beads, about 8 discs.
  9. Second turquoise accent:
    Add one more turquoise bead, creating a visual rhythm with the previous one.
  10. Final black segment:
    Finish the beading pattern with a final block of black beads (about 8-10) until you reach your desired wrist size.
  11. Add final neon pop:
    End the string with a single neon lime green bead so colors connect when tied.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

  1. Check the fit:
    Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist to ensure it fits comfortably without being too tight or too loose.
  2. Prepare the knot:
    Remove the bead stopper or tape carefully, holding both ends of the elastic firmly.
  3. Tie the surgeon’s knot:
    Cross the ends, wrap one end around the other twice, and pull tight. This extra loop makes the knot much more secure than a standard square knot.
  4. Secure with glue:
    Dab a tiny drop of super glue or jewelry cement directly onto the knot. Let this dry completely for a minute or two.
  5. Hide the knot:
    Once the glue is dry, trim the excess cord ends close to the knot, then gently slide a bead over the knot to conceal it.

Curling Elastic?

If your elastic keeps curling up while you bead, run it firmly over the edge of a table or through your fingers to straighten it out.

Wear your new bracelet stacked with others or solo for a confident splash of summer color

Boho Tassel Tie With Heishi Center

Minimal clay bead tie bracelet with heishi center and a bright tassel on soft linen.
Minimal clay bead tie bracelet with heishi center and a bright tassel on soft linen.

This earthy yet vibrant bracelet combines the matte texture of clay heishi beads with the shimmer of pearl and gold accents. Finished with a playful coral tassel, it’s the perfect accessory to add a touch of handcrafted warmth to your summer style.

How-To Guide

Materials

  • Cream or beige polymer clay heishi beads (approx. 4mm-6mm)
  • Small white round beads (3mm-4mm, glass, pearl, or stone)
  • Small gold round spacer beads (2mm-3mm)
  • Faceted gold spacer disc beads
  • Textured or bone-style white spacer beads (larger hole)
  • Large coral-colored round connector bead (ceramic or wood)
  • Coral red embroidery floss or thin cotton cord for the tassel
  • Coral red nylon beading cord (thin enough for bead holes)
  • Beading needle (optional)
  • Scissors
  • Clear jewelry glue or clear nail polish
  • Ruler

Step 1: Planning the Design

  1. Cut the Cord:
    Cut a piece of your coral red nylon cord to approximately 18 inches. This extra length allows plenty of room for knotting and the adjustable tie closure.
  2. Map Your Pattern:
    Before threading, lay out your beads on a soft cloth or bead board. The design shown is asymmetrical: one side features a long run of heishi beads, while the other side mixes pearls, heishi, and gold accents. This helps visualize the final balance.

Tame the Tassel

If your tassel threads look crimped or messy, dampen them slightly with water and comb through with a fine-tooth comb. Let dry flat for a super sleek finish.

Step 2: Creating the Tassel Focal Point

  1. Start the Tassel:
    Wrap your coral embroidery floss around three fingers (or a 2-inch wide piece of cardboard) approximately 20-30 times depending on how thick you want the tassel.
  2. Make the Tie-Off:
    Cut a separate 6-inch piece of floss. Thread it underneath the looped bundle at one end and tie a tight double knot to secure the top.
  3. Create the Neck:
    Cut another piece of floss. Wrapping it horizontally around the bundle about 1/4 inch down from the top, secure it tightly to create the ‘neck’ of the tassel.
  4. Trim the Loops:
    Using sharp scissors, cut through the bottom loops of the bundle. Trim the ends straight so the tassel looks neat and uniform.
  5. Attach the Focal Bead:
    Take your main beading cord and thread it through the loop at the very top of your finished tassel. Center the tassel on the cord.
  6. Add the Anchor Bead:
    Thread both ends of the beading cord up through the large coral round bead. This bead sits directly on top of the tassel, hiding the connection point.

Step 3: Beading the Strands

  1. Separate the Strands:
    You now have two cords exiting the top of the large coral bead. You will bead one strand to the left and one to the right.
  2. Start Left: The Textured Side:
    On the left cord, string a textured white bone bead, followed by a faceted gold spacer, another bone bead, and a gold spacer.
  3. Continue the Left Pattern:
    Add about 1-2 inches of the cream heishi beads. I like to check the length against my wrist here to ensure it’s not getting too long.
  4. Transition to Pearls:
    Add a single small red/coral accent bead, then switch to your small white round beads (pearls). String about 1.5 inches of these pearl beads.
  5. Finish Left Side:
    End this side with a gold round spacer bead and make a simple overhand knot with the cord to hold the beads in place temporarily.
  6. Start Right: The Uniform Side:
    On the right cord coming from the tassel, string a textured white bead, followed by a gold faceted spacer.
  7. Create the Heishi Stretch:
    Thread a long section of just the cream heishi beads—approximately 3 inches. This creates that lovely asymmetrical modern look.
  8. Finish Right Side:
    End the right section with a tiny pop of color using a red accent bead, followed by a gold round spacer.

Mix Your Materials

Swap the white pearls for jagged turquoise chips or small wooden rounds to completely change the vibe from ‘beach chic’ to ‘rustic earthy’ instantly.

Step 4: Finishing the Closure

  1. Secure the Ends:
    Tie a secure overhand knot flush against the last gold bead on both the left and right strands to keep the beadwork tight.
  2. Create Adjustable Ties:
    Leave about 3-4 inches of bare cord on each side. Tie a knot at the very end of each cord to prevent fraying.
  3. Add the Sliding Knot (Optional):
    You can now overlap the two cord ends and tie a square knot or macramé sliding knot over both strands using a scrap piece of cord, or simply tie the bracelet directly onto your wrist for a permanent fit.
  4. Final Trim:
    Trim any excess cord past your final knots and apply a tiny dab of jewelry glue to the knots for extra security.

Now you have a breezy, custom-made accessory ready for casual summer days

Vacation Charm Story Bracelet Stack

Vacation charm clay bead bracelet stack with bright heishi beads and tiny seaside-inspired charms
Vacation charm clay bead bracelet stack with bright heishi beads and tiny seaside-inspired charms

Capture the essence of a beach holiday with this vibrant four-strand bracelet stack featuring a mix of textures and colors. This set combines matte disc beads, glossy rounds, and playful gold charms like a starfish to create a cohesive, layered vacation look.

Detailed Instructions

Materials

  • Elastic beading cord (0.5mm clear silicone)
  • White heishi clay beads (approx. 4mm)
  • Red-orange seed beads (size 6/0 or similar)
  • Turquoise seed beads (size 6/0 or similar)
  • Yellow disc beads (vinyl or clay)
  • Mixed accent beads: large white pearl/shell nuggets, large red cylinder beads
  • Gold spacer beads: ribbed rondelles, small rounds, and tube spacers
  • Gold starfish charm
  • Gold disc pendant charm
  • Jump rings (4mm or 5mm gold)
  • Jewelry glue or clear nail polish
  • Scissors

Step 1: Strand 1: The White Surfer Layer

  1. Prepare the cord:
    Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This generous length makes tying the knot securely much easier at the end. Pre-stretch the elastic slightly by tugging gently on both ends to prevent the bracelet from stretching out later.
  2. Base pattern:
    String the majority of this bracelet using the white heishi clay beads. These form the sleek, modern backbone of the stack.
  3. Add color blocks:
    To break up the white, add small sections of contrasting color. Thread on a pattern of yellow, turquoise, and gold spacer beads. Looking at the reference, I like to place a small gold spacer between color transitions for a polished finish.
  4. Tie it off:
    Once the strand fits your wrist comfortably, tie a strong surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right). Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue on the knot, let it dry, and trim the excess cord.

Knot Security

Hide the knot inside a large bead! If your bead hole is big enough, gently tug the knot inside after gluing to make the finish invisible.

Step 2: Strand 2: The Red & Pearl Accent

  1. Start the red strand:
    Cut another length of elastic. Begin stringing primarily red-orange seed beads. This vibrant color adds the warmth needed to balance the cool turquoise and white.
  2. Feature the pearl:
    Roughly halfway through the strand, or wherever you want the focal point, thread the large organic white pearl or shell nugget bead. Flank it with a small gold spacer on either side to highlight its irregular shape.
  3. Incorporate the mix:
    On the opposite side of the bracelet, create a ‘bead soup’ section. Randomly mix a few yellow discs, large red cylinder beads, and white rounds. This asymmetry gives the stack a collected, bohemian feel.
  4. Finish the strand:
    Check the fit against the first bracelet to ensure they are the same size. Knot securely, glue, and trim.

Texture Play

Swap the turquoise seed beads for real turquoise stone chips or faceted glass beads to add a luxurious sparkle and natural texture to the stack.

Step 3: Strand 3: The Charm Layer

  1. Setup for charms:
    This turquoise strand is the main focal point because of the charms. String turquoise seed beads for about one-third of the length.
  2. Attach the disc charm:
    Slide on a gold ribbed tube spacer or a series of gold rondelles. Using pliers, open a jump ring, attach the gold disc pendant to the spacer section, and close the ring securely.
  3. Continue beading:
    Add another section of turquoise beads. Then, switch to a small section of yellow disc beads to tie in with the other bracelets.
  4. Attach the starfish:
    Slide on another gold ribbed spacer bead. Use a jump ring to attach the gold starfish charm to this spacer so it hangs freely.
  5. Complete the loop:
    Finish stringing turquoise beads until the length matches the others. Secure with a knot and glue.

Step 4: Strand 4: The Mixed Texture Spacer

  1. Create the final mix:
    This last strand acts as the unifier. Use white heishi beads for the base again, but interrupt the pattern frequently.
  2. Add gold hardware:
    Insert gold beads every inch or so. I recommend using different shapes here—some tiny rounds and some flatter discs—to catch the light differently.
  3. Final color pop:
    Include a small segment of red and yellow beads near the closure point to echo the other bracelets in the stack.
  4. Final assembly:
    Tie off this final bracelet. Once the glue is dry on all strands, stack them together on your wrist, checking that the charms hang correctly and the colors are distributed evenly.

Now you have a stunning, beach-ready stack that tells a color story perfect for warm sunny days