19+ Beachy Clay Bead Bracelet Ideas for Easy Summer DIYs

Capture the essence of a tranquil day at the shore with this textured bracelet stack featuring soothing turquoise, classic white, and sandy beige tones. The mix of heishi beads, round accent beads, and metallic spacers creates a relaxed yet polished look perfect for summer wear.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: White & Gold Accent Bracelet

1. Measure and cut:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. I always like to have extra room for tying knots comfortably.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Pull on the elastic cord firmly a few times to pre-stretch it. This prevents the bracelet from drooping or stretching out permanently after you wear it.
3. Begin the pattern:
   String approximately three to four white round beads onto the cord.
4. Add accent bead:
   Slide on one gold tone textured spacer bead.
5. Repeat pattern:
   Continue this pattern: 3-4 white beads followed by 1 gold spacer. Repeat until the bracelet reaches your desired wrist size, usually about 6.5 to 7 inches for an average wrist.
6. Close the loop:
   Tie a surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right) to secure the bracelet. Pull the knot tight.
7. Secure and trim:
   Add a tiny dab of jewelry glue to the knot. Let it dry, then trim the excess cord close to the knot. If possible, hide the knot inside one of the larger white beads.

Step 2: Wooden Textured Strand

1. Prepare the cord:
   Cut and pre-stretch another length of elastic cord.
2. String wooden beads:
   String the tan wooden rounds continuously. This bracelet acts as a textural neutral spacer in the stack.
3. Check consistency:
   Occasional small gold spacer beads can be added every inch or so if you want a hint of sparkle, though a solid wood strand works beautifully here too.
4. Finish the strand:
   Once it matches the length of your first bracelet, tie, glue, and trim the cord just as before.

Step 3: Turquoise Heishi Pop

1. Start the color strand:
   Prepare a new piece of elastic cord. This layer provides the main pop of color.
2. Adding the heishi:
   String the turquoise heishi beads. Since these are flat discs, you will need many more of them to achieve the same length.
3. Layering density:
   Ensure the beads are sitting flush against each other for that solid block of color look.
4. Verify length:
   Wrap it around your wrist to check the fit against the other two completed bracelets; adjust the bead count if necessary.
5. Tie and finish:
   Secure with a surgeon’s knot, glue, and trim.

Step 4: Mixed Texture Focal Bracelet

1. Design the mix:
   This final strand combines textures. Prepare your final piece of elastic cord.
2. Create sections:
   String a section of about 10-15 white heishi beads.
3. Transition beads:
   Add two flat gold spacers, then switch to the speckled stone or ceramic disc beads for a short section.
4. Varying the pattern:
   You can alternate between blocks of white heishi, speckled stone, and even small wooden accents separated by gold spacers. The asymmetry here adds organic charm.
5. Final assembly:
   Once the strand is full, perform the final tying and gluing process to complete your stack.

Enjoy wearing your new handcrafted stack, which brings a little bit of coastal calm to any outfit you choose

Capture the essence of a sun-soaked coastline with this elegant yet relaxed bracelet design. Featuring a classic cowrie shell centerpiece flanked by calming turquoise and warm brass accents, the creamy white heishi beads create a sophisticated surf-style accessory.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Measure your wrist:
   Before you begin stringing, wrap a piece of string or a flexible measuring tape around your wrist to determine the desired length. Add about half an inch to this measurement to ensure the bracelet fits comfortably without being too tight.
2. Cut the cord:
   Cut a length of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. Having this extra length makes it much easier to tie the finishing knot securely later on without struggling with short ends.
3. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   I always take a moment to firmly pull on the elastic cord a few times before adding beads. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelet from sagging or loosening up immediately after you finish making it.
4. Lay out the design:
   Arrange your beads on a bead board or a towel to visualize the pattern. Place the cowrie shell in the center. Put a turquoise bead on each side of the shell. Then, flank those with your metallic spacers before filling the rest of the length with the white heishi beads.

Step 2: Creating the Centerpiece

1. Prepare the shell:
   Ensure your cowrie shell is ready for stringing. If it doesn’t have holes, the elastic will simply pass through the natural slit in the center and wrap around the back.
2. Start the center sequence:
   Thread the elastic through your cowrie shell first. Center it on the cord.
3. Add flanking beads:
   On the left side of the shell, thread one turquoise round bead. Repeat this on the right side so the shell is hugged by the splash of blue color.
4. Insert metallic accents:
   On the left side, following the turquoise bead, add your antique brass or gold spacer beads. Looking closely at the design, you might use a stack of three flat disc spacers or a single textured metal bead.
5. Mirror the accents:
   Repeat the exact same metallic pattern on the right side. Symmetry is key here to keep the focus on that central shell.

Step 3: Completing the Strand

1. String the heishi beads:
   Begin threading the white heishi clay beads onto one side of the cord. Add enough to cover about half of the remaining length required for your wrist size.
2. Secure the loose end:
   To prevent beads from sliding off while you work, you can place a piece of tape or a bead stopper clip on the very end of the cord.
3. Fill the other side:
   Thread the remaining white heishi beads onto the other side of the cord until the bracelet reaches your predetermined length.
4. Double-check sizing:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist one last time to check the fit. Step back and ensure the centerpiece sits right in the middle of your wrist when the ends meet.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the knot:
   Bring the two ends of the elastic together. Tie a standard square knot (right over left, left over right). Pull the elastic tight to cinch the knot securely.
2. Apply adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry adhesive or clear super glue onto the knot. This ensures it won’t slip undone over time.
3. Hide the knot:
   While the glue is still slightly tacky but set, gently pull the cord so the knot slides inside the hole of one of the nearby heishi beads. This hides the mechanics for a seamless professional look.
4. Trim excess cord:
   Once the glue is fully dry, use sharp scissors to trim the remaining tail ends of the elastic as close to the beads as possible without snipping the main cord.

Slip your new bracelet on and enjoy the effortless coastal vibe it brings to your daily style

This breezy, neutral-toned bracelet captures the essence of a tranquil beach day with its mix of natural wood textures and smooth matte whites. The centerpiece is a striking cowrie shell charm, making it a perfect accessory for effortless summer style.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preparing Your Material

1. Measure the wrist:
   Before you begin, measure your wrist to determine the needed length. Add about 1-2 extra inches to your elastic cord before cutting to allow plenty of room for knotting later.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Cut your length of elastic cord. Give it several firm tugs along its length. Pre-stretching is crucial because it prevents the bracelet from sagging or loosening immediately after you wear it.
3. Secure the end:
   Place a bead stopper or a piece of masking tape on one end of the cord. This simple step saves you from the frustration of beads sliding right off while you work.

Step 2: Designing the Pattern

1. Plan your sequence:
   Lay out your beads on a bead board or a soft towel. The pattern shown uses blocks of color rather than alternating every single bead. Notice the grouping: three darker wood beads, then two white beads, then two wood, then three white.
2. Create asymmetry:
   Don’t worry about perfect symmetry. The charm of this bracelet lies in its organic feel. Grouping 3-4 wood beads followed by 2-3 white beads creates a nice rhythmic flow.

Step 3: Stringing the Beads

1. Start the stringing:
   Begin threading your beads onto the elastic cord, following the loose pattern you laid out. Keep the tension light; don’t pull too hard yet.
2. Add the first spacer:
   Once you have strung about half of your round beads, slide on one of the small silver spacer beads. This will frame one side of the shell.
3. Thread the cowrie shell:
   Thread the elastic through your cowrie shell. If your shell has a flat back or is drilled lengthwise, ensure it sits facing outward correctly.
4. Add the second spacer:
   Immediately follow the shell with the second silver spacer bead. These metallic accents give the bracelet a polished, professional finish.
5. Finish the bead string:
   Continue threading the remaining wood and white beads until you reach your desired bracelet length. Wrap it around your wrist to check the fit—it should be snug but comfortable.

Step 4: Closing the Bracelet

1. Prepare the knot:
   Remove the bead stopper or tape. Bring both ends of the elastic together, ensuring there are no gaps between the beads.
2. Tie a surgeon’s knot:
   Tie a standard overhand knot, but do not pull it tight yet. Then, loop one end through the knot a second time. This is a surgeon’s knot and holds much better on slippery elastic.
3. Tighten securely:
   Pull the cords tight. You want the beads to touch snugly, compressing the hidden elastic slightly so it doesn’t show when worn.
4. Apply adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of super glue or jewelry cement directly onto the knot. I find using the tip of a toothpick helps apply the glue precisely without making a mess.
5. Hide the knot:
   While the glue is still tacky, gently tug one of the adjacent wood beads (wood usually has larger holes than clay) over the knot to hide it inside.
6. Final trim:
   Once the glue is fully dry (wait at least 15 minutes), trim the excess elastic tails close to the bead. Be careful not to nick the main cord.

Now you have a serene, beach-ready accessory to wear alone or stack with other favorites for a layered look

Capture the essence of a serene day at the coast with this stylish beaded bracelet. Combining vibrant turquoise and crisp white heishi beads with golden accents and a delicate charm, this piece brings a touch of seaside luxury to your everyday look.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a piece of string or a flexible measuring tape around your wrist to determine the desired length. Add about half an inch to this measurement to ensure the bracelet fits comfortably without pinching.
2. Cut the cord:
   Cut a length of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This extra length gives you plenty of room to hold the ends securely while you bead and tie off the knot later.
3. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   Gently pull on the elastic cord a few times to pre-stretch it. This crucial step prevents the bracelet from sagging or expanding unexpectedly after you’ve worn it a few times.
4. Secure one end:
   Attach a piece of tape or a bead stopper to one end of the cord. I prefer using a simple binder clip so beads don’t slide off while I’m working on the design.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

1. Start with turquoise:
   Begin stringing your turquoise heishi beads. Add approximately 15 to 20 beads, creating a solid block of color that will sit on the side of your wrist.
2. Add the first spacer:
   Slide on a smooth gold spacer bead. This acts as a visual break between your color sections and adds a hint of shine.
3. Continue the turquoise section:
   Add another small section of turquoise beads, about 5 to 8 beads long, followed by another smooth gold spacer.
4. Transition to white:
   String a short run of white heishi beads, roughly the same length as your last turquoise section. Following this, add one more smooth gold spacer bead.
5. Create the focal point base:
   Thread on a longer section of white beads. This area will serve as the background for your charm, so make sure it’s centered relative to the layout.
6. Insert decorative rings:
   Slide on two larger, textured gold ring spacers. These should be wider and more decorative than the smooth spacers used earlier.
7. Add the charm hanger:
   In between those two textured rings, place a jump ring that holds your gold coin or starfish charm. Ensure the charm faces outward.
8. Complete the white section:
   Finish the focal area by adding the second half of the white bead section, mirroring the length of the white section before the charm.
9. Mirror the pattern:
   Add a smooth gold spacer, then a short section of turquoise beads, another spacer, and finally finish with the remaining long section of turquoise beads until you reach your desired total length.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist to check the size. Remove or add a few beads near the ends if adjustment is needed.
2. Tie the first knot:
   Remove the tape or clip and bring the two ends of the elastic together. Tie a simple overhand knot, pulling it tight so the beads sit flush against each other.
3. Secure with a surgeon’s knot:
   Tie a second knot, but loop the elastic through twice before pulling tight (this is a surgeon’s knot). This extra loop adds significant security handling the tension of the elastic.
4. Apply adhesive:
   Add a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Allow it to dry for a minute to ensure the knot is permanently sealed.
5. Hide the knot:
   If distinct holes permit, gently tug firmly on the cord to slide the knot inside the nearest bead hole. This hides the mechanics and creates a professional finish.
6. Trim excess cord:
   Using sharp scissors, trim the remaining tails of the elastic cord close to the bead, being careful not to snip the main knot.

Enjoy wearing your new coastal-inspired accessory on your next sunny adventure

Capture the essence of a serene shoreline with this beautiful beaded bracelet featuring soft seafoam hues and a charming focal point. The mix of speckled turquoise and white textured beads evokes the feeling of sandy beaches and gentle ocean waves.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preparation

1. Measure the cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic stretch cord to approximately 10-12 inches. I like to leave plenty of extra room on the ends to make tying the final knot much easier.
2. Secure the end:
   Attach a bead stopper or a simple binder clip to one end of the cord to prevent your beads from sliding off while you design.
3. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   Hold the cord firmly at both ends and give it several gentle tugs. This pre-stretching step is crucial because it prevents the bracelet from sagging or loosening shortly after you start wearing it.
4. Attach the charm:
   Using your two flat-nose pliers, locate the split in the jump ring. Twist the ring open laterally (like opening a door), slide on the sea turtle charm, and then twist it back closed securely so there is no gap.

Step 2: Designing the Pattern

1. Start the sequence:
   Thread the jump ring with the attached turtle charm onto the elastic cord immediately. The charm will act as the center anchor of your design.
2. Build the first side:
   On the right side of the charm, slide on one speckled mint bead, one white textured bead, and one speckled mint bead.
3. Extend the pattern:
   Continue this pattern on the right side: add a white bead, a darker turquoise bead, and another white bead. Follow this with a block of seafoam green and white beads.
4. Mirror the design:
   Move to the left side of the charm (you can simply slide the charm down and work from the other end of the cord if easier). Repeat the exact bead sequence you created on the right side so the turtle sits perfectly in the middle.
5. Fill the back:
   Once you have your symmetrical front section, fill the rest of the bracelet length with a random or alternating mix of white and seafoam beads until you reach the desired wrist size.
6. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist to check the length. It should fit comfortably without squeezing tight, accounting for the knot you are about to tie.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Prepare the knot:
   Remove the bead stopper while carefully holding both ends of the cord. Bring the two ends together to close the circle.
2. Tie a surgeon’s knot:
   Cross the left end over the right and loop it under. Then, cross the right end over the left and loop it under twice. This extra loop provides the friction needed to hold the elastic.
3. Tighten securely:
   Pull all four strands (the two tail ends and the two bracelet loops) slowly and firmly. You should feel the knot cinch down tightly.
4. Add adhesive:
   Apply a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Allow this to dry for at least a few minutes to ensure it won’t slip.
5. Trim the excess:
   Using sharp scissors, trim the tail ends of the elastic cord, leaving about 2-3mm of tail. Do not cut flush against the knot, or it may unravel.
6. Hide the knot:
   Ideally, the knot is small enough to be pulled inside the hole of the nearest white bead. Gently tug the bracelet to slide the knot inside for a professional, seamless finish.

Now you have a refreshing accessory ready for your next seaside adventure or summer day out

Capture the essence of the shoreline with this sophisticated bracelet featuring deep navy, teal, and sandy white beads. The matte finish and silver wave charm create a casual yet polished look perfect for beach days or everyday wear.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Preparation

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find your comfortable size, then cut your stretch cord about 3-4 inches longer than this measurement to allow room for tying the knot.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Give your length of elastic cord a few firm tugs before you begin stringing. This helps prevent the bracelet from stretching out and becoming loose immediately after you wear it.
3. Prepare the charm:
   Using pliers or your fingers, carefully open the silver jump ring by twisting the ends away from each other (not pulling apart).
4. Attach the charm:
   Slide the wave charm onto the open jump ring, then close the ring securely by twisting the ends back together until they are flush.

Step 2: Designing the Pattern

1. Plan your color blocks:
   Lay your beads out on a bead board or a towel to visualize the design. The pattern relies on asymmetrical blocks of color rather than a repeating sequence.
2. Create the teal section:
   Start by arranging a long section of the teal/turquoise beads. Based on the image, you’ll need about 6-7 of these.
3. Transition to navy:
   Place a single white bead as a spacer, followed by a long run of the dark navy blue beads (approx. 5-6 beads).
4. Add the focal section:
   Create the focal point opposite the main color blocks. Arrange the beads in this order: Navy, White, Navy, White, Charm.
5. Balance the design:
   Finish the layout by filling in the remaining space with teal beads or another small repeating pattern like teal-white-teal depending on your wrist size.

Step 3: Assembly

1. Secure the end:
   Place a piece of tape on one end of your stretch cord or attach a bead stopper so the beads don’t slide off while you work.
2. String the main body:
   Thread the beads onto the cord following the layout you created, starting with the main teal section.
3. String the focal area:
   Continue threading until you reach the spot for the charm. I prefer to slide the jump ring directly onto the cord between two contrasting beads for better visibility.
4. Check the fit:
   Once all beads are added, carefully wrap the strand around your wrist. The beads should touch comfortably without gaps, but shouldn’t feel tight.
5. Remove excess beads:
   If the bracelet is too large, remove one or two beads from the solid color sections to maintain the pattern’s symmetry.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the first knot:
   Remove the tape or bead stopper. Bring the two ends of the cord together and tie a simple overhand knot, pulling it tight to bring the beads together.
2. Secure with a surgeon’s knot:
   Tie a surgeon’s knot for extra security. Loop the cord end through the loop twice instead of once, then pull tight.
3. Apply adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue directly onto the knot. Be careful not to get glue on the beads themselves, as it can ruin the matte finish.
4. Hide the knot:
   While the glue is still tacky, gently pull the cord so the knot slides inside the hole of the nearest bead. This hides the mechanics for a professional finish.
5. Let it cure:
   Allow the glue to dry completely—usually at least 15 minutes, but check your glue’s instructions—before trimming the excess cord tails close to the bead.

Enjoy the calming vibes of your new ocean-inspired accessory

Channel the calming energy of the ocean with this stylish beaded bracelet featuring a striking evil eye charm. The combination of crisp white clay discs, vibrant turquoise accents, and gold spacers creates a luxurious yet laid-back accessory perfect for your next getaway.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Planning & Centerpiece

1. Measure and cut:
   Begin by determining your wrist size and cutting a length of beading cord about 10 inches long to give yourself plenty of room to work. I usually add a piece of tape to one end to stop beads from sliding off while I string.
2. Start the center:
   Thread your focal evil eye bead onto the cord. This flat turquoise bead will sit right in the middle of your design.
3. Add gold accents:
   Immediately flank the evil eye bead on the right side with one round gold metallic bead.
4. Layer the pattern:
   Next on the right side, add a patterned black-and-white bead, followed by a white heishi disc, and then another black-and-white patterned bead.
5. Introduce color:
   Slide on two small round turquoise beads to bring in that pop of sea-blue color.
6. Add texture:
   Finish this specific focal section with a textured gold spacer bead followed by a single white heishi bead.
7. Mirror the design:
   Repeat the exact same sequence on the left side of the evil eye: gold round bead, black/white bead, white heishi, black/white bead, two turquoise beads, gold spacer, and one white heishi.

Step 2: Building the Band

1. String the white base:
   Now, fill out the rest of the bracelet length using the white heishi clay beads. Thread them symmetrically on both sides of your focal section until you have about an inch of cord left on each side.
2. Check the symmetry:
   Pause to hold the two ends of the cord together, letting the evil eye hang down, to ensure your white sections are even.
3. Create the endings:
   Just before you reach the clasp area on both ends, add a small sequence to mirror the center: one gold spacer bead followed by one turquoise round bead.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Prepare the first crimp:
   Slide a crimp bead onto one end of the wire, followed by a wire guardian or just the loop of your bead tip/clamshell connector if using one.
2. Secure the wire:
   Loop the wire back through the crimp bead. Use your needle nose pliers to flatten the crimp bead firmly, securing the wire in place.
3. Attach the clasp:
   Attach a jump ring and your lobster clasp to the loop you just created. If using a bead tip, close the cup over the crimp bead now.
4. Finish the second end:
   Repeat the crimping process on the other end. Make sure to pull the wire taut so there are no gaps between beads, but not so tight that the bracelet becomes stiff.
5. Add the extension chain:
   On the receiving end, attach a jump ring and a short length of extension chain to allow for adjustable sizing.
6. Trim excess wire:
   Use your cutters to snip off any remaining tail of string/wire close to the crimp bead for a clean finish.

Now you have a protective and trendy charm bracelet ready for sunny days

Capture the warmth of a perfect beach day with this vibrant, easy-to-make string bracelet. Featuring a cheerful “SUN” message flanked by ocean-inspired turquoise and coral accents, it’s the ultimate summer accessory for sandy wrists.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Planning and Layout

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find your size, then add about an inch for comfort. Cut a piece of elastic cord about 3-4 inches longer than this measurement to give yourself plenty of room for tying knots.
2. Secure the end:
   Place a piece of tape or a bead stopper on one end of your elastic cord so your beads don’t slide off while you work. I usually just tape it to my table surface for stability.
3. Lay out the centerpiece:
   Find your ‘S’, ‘U’, and ‘N’ cube beads. Lay them out in the center of your workspace to orient the design.
4. Plan the symmetry:
   Arrange your colored beads on either side of the word. Based on the photo, use a pattern of peach, red, white, and turquoise to create a balanced look.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

1. Start the left side:
   Begin stringing from the left of the ‘S’. Thread on a turquoise bead, followed by a peach bead, then a red bead.
2. Establish the pattern:
   Continuing outward from the previous step, add a white bead, then three to four turquoise beads. This creates the main color block of the bracelet.
3. Repeat the accent:
   After the block of turquoise, add a white bead, a red bead, a peach bead, and end with another turquoise bead. This completes the left side of the strand.
4. Thread the message:
   Slide on your letter beads in order: S, then U, then N. Make sure they are all facing the same direction so the word is legible.
5. Mirror the right side:
   Immediately after the ‘N’, thread a turquoise bead, a peach bead, and a red bead.
6. Continue the pattern:
   Just like the first side, add a white bead followed by a block of three to four turquoise beads.
7. Finish the strand:
   Complete the beading pattern with a white bead, a red bead, a peach bead, and finally a turquoise bead. Check clear sizing against your wrist now.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Gently pull on both ends of the elastic cord to pre-stretch it. This prevents the bracelet from loosening up the first time you wear it.
2. Tie the knot:
   Remove the tape or stopper. Bring the two ends together and tie a surgeon’s knot (loop the right end over the left twice, then pull tight).
3. Secure with glue:
   Place a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Let this dry completely before moving it.
4. Hide the knot:
   Once dry, clip the excess string close to the knot. Gently tug the beads so the knot slides inside the hole of the nearest bead, hiding it from view.
5. Optional clasp:
   If you are using a clasp instead of elastic, crimp a loop on each end of the wire and attach your jump rings and lobster clasp using pliers.

Slip on your new bracelet and enjoy carrying a little piece of sunshine with you everywhere you go

Capture the magic of a fading sun with this stunning gradient heishi bead bracelet. Using a carefully curated palette of clay discs, you’ll create a seamless sunset effect that looks effortlessly chic against sun-kissed skin.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Planning the Gradient

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap your measuring tape around your wrist to determine the desired length. Add about half an inch to this measurement to ensure the bracelet fits comfortably without pinching.
2. Sort your palette:
   Lay out your clay bead strands. You want to organize them by color depth: start with the lightest cream, move to the soft peach, then the deep terracotta, and set aside the mustard yellow for accents.
3. Visualizing the pattern:
   Notice how the reference bracelet creates an asymmetrical balance. The gradient doesn’t just go light-to-dark once; it flows. Decide if you want a single long gradient or a mirrored effect meeting in the middle.

Step 2: Stringing the Design

1. Prepare the cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room for knotting later. Secure one end with a bead stopper or a piece of tape so beads don’t slide off.
2. Start with neutral tones:
   Begin threading the cream or off-white beads. Thread about 1.5 to 2 inches of this lightest color to form the ‘sky’ portion of your sunset design.
3. Transition to peach:
   Switch to your pale peach beads. Add a section slightly shorter than the cream section, perhaps 1 inch. The subtle shift in tone mimics the soft light before dusk.
4. Introduce the warmth:
   Now, thread on the terracotta or rust-colored beads. This deep, rich color anchors the design. Add about 1 inch of these beads.
5. Create the yellow accent:
   Insert a small pop of mustard yellow beads—about 5 to 8 discs is perfect. This mimics the slipping sun.
6. Continue the pattern:
   After the yellow pop, return to the terracotta color for another inch. I find this framing makes the yellow stand out more vibrantly.
7. Complete the gradient:
   Work backwards through your colors now if you want a mirrored look, or simply continue alternating the peach and rust sections until you reach your measured length.

Step 3: Adding Hardware & Finishing

1. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist. The ends should meet comfortably. Add or remove a few cream beads at the very end to adjust the final size without disturbing the central pattern.
2. Attach the first crimp (if using wire):
   If using beading wire instead of elastic, thread a crimp bead onto the wire, followed by a wire guardian and one half of your clasp. Loop back through the crimp bead and flatten it with pliers.
3. Knotting elastic (if using elastic):
   If using elastic, remove the tape/stopper. Tie a standard square knot. Pull it tight, then tie a surgeon’s knot (looping twice) for extra security.
4. Adding the gold accent chain:
   The image shows a delicate gold extension chain. Open a gold jump ring using two pairs of pliers (twist, don’t pull). Slide it onto the loop of your clasp or the elastic knot, add the chain, and close the ring.
5. Secure the knot:
   Add a tiny drop of super glue or jewelry cement to the knot to prevent it from slipping over time. Let this dry completely before trimming excess string.
6. Hide the mechanics:
   If possible, slide the closest clay bead over the knot to hide it. If the bead hole is too small, simply trim the elastic tails close to the knot once the glue is dry.

Wear your new bracelet stacked with others or solo for a perfect touch of beach-day warmth

Capture the essence of a tranquil shoreline with this beautiful bracelet combining translucent sea-glass inspired beads and textured, speckled clay. The mix of cool aquas, organic whites, and hints of gold creates a sophisticated yet relaxed accessory perfect for beach days.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Crafting the Clay Beads

1. Prepare the clay:
   Start by conditioning your white polymer clay until it is soft and pliable. Once warm, flatten it out slightly.
2. Add texture:
   Sprinkle a generous pinch of coarse black pepper or dried coffee grounds onto the flattened clay. Fold the clay over itself to trap the particles inside.
3. Mix thoroughly:
   Knead the clay repeatedly to distribute the specks evenly throughout the white base. You want a natural, organic stone look, so ensure the specks aren’t clumped in just one spot.
4. Portion the beads:
   Roll the clay into a long snake or log. Use a craft knife to slice equal-sized segments, aiming for pieces that will roll into beads roughly 10mm in diameter.
5. Shape the spheres:
   Roll each segment between your palms to create a smooth sphere. I prefer to use an acrylic bead roller here to get perfectly round shapes without fingerprints.
6. Pierce the holes:
   Gently twist a darning needle or toothpick through the center of each bead to create the stringing hole. Rotate the bead as you push through to prevent it from squashing.
7. Bake:
   Arrange your beads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake according to your brand of clay’s instructions (usually around 275°F/135°C for 15-30 minutes) and let them cool completely.

Step 2: Designing and Stringing

1. Plan your pattern:
   Lay out your beads on a bead board or soft cloth. For the look in the image, alternate between the sea-glass style beads and your handmade speckled clay beads.
2. Incorporate accents:
   Insert a small gold nugget spacer bead between select pairs of the larger beads. You don’t need one between every bead; placing them randomly or in small clusters adds an organic feel.
3. Cut the cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra length to tie the knot comfortably.
4. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   Give the elastic cord a few firm tugs before stringing. This prevents the bracelet from stretching out permanently the first time you wear it.
5. String the beads:
   Thread your patterned beads onto the elastic. Double-check the length around your wrist as you go to ensure a comfortable fit.
6. Secure the ends:
   Once all beads are strung, bring the two ends of the elastic together. Tie a surgeon’s knot (a square knot with an extra loop through) and pull it tight.
7. Glue the knot:
   Apply a tiny drop of super glue or jewelry adhesive directly onto the knot. Wait a moment for it to tack up.
8. Hide the knot:
   Trim the excess cord ends close to the knot, then gently pull the elastic so the knot slides inside the hole of one of the larger beads to hide it.

Now you have a stunning, handmade accessory that carries the calming spirit of the ocean wherever you go

Capture the essence of a vibrant reef with this stunning stack of clay bead bracelets, featuring distinct matte textures in coral, white, and speckled turquoise. The combination creates a fresh, beach-ready look that balances warm, sunny tones with cooling oceanic hues.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Planning Your Stack

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 chunky 10mm beads sit comfortably without pinching.
2. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Cut four lengths of elastic cord, each about 10-12 inches long. Give each piece a few firm tugs to pre-stretch it; this helps prevent your bracelets from loosening up later.
3. Visualize the set:
   Lay out your beads on a bead board or a soft towel. You are creating four distinct strands: solid coral, speckled turquoise, a white/teal mix, and a teal/orange mix.

Step 2: Strand 1: Solid Coral & Turquoise

1. Start the coral base:
   Thread approximately 15 matte coral beads onto your first cord. This will form the majority of the first bracelet.
2. Add the focal point:
   Add a single silver spacer bead, followed by three speckled turquoise beads, and another silver spacer to frame the color pop.
3. Finish the circle:
   Fill the rest of the strand with coral beads until you reach your target length.

Step 3: Strand 2: The White Accent

1. Begin with white:
   String about 5 matte white beads onto your second cord to start the pattern.
2. Create the center pattern:
   Transition into the turquoise section. Here, I like to create a block of color by stringing about 10-12 speckled turquoise beads together.
3. Complete the loop:
   Finish the strand by adding more white beads until it matches the circumference of your first bracelet.

Step 4: Strand 3: The Mixed Texture

1. Alternate textures:
   For the third bracelet, you want to create a half-and-half look. String speckled turquoise beads for exactly one half of the required length.
2. Add the warm tones:
   Switch to solid coral beads for the second half. Use a silver spacer bead at each transition point where the colors meet to give it a polished finish.

Step 5: Strand 4: The Deep Orange Pop

1. Introduce shiny beads:
   For the bottom bracelet shown in the stack, use the speckled turquoise beads for the majority of the strand.
2. Create the contrast section:
   String four silver spacers in a row to create a small metallic bar.
3. Add the final pop:
   Add 4-5 deep orange or red-orange beads to create a bold anchor section, contrasting heavily against the cool teal.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the knots:
   Bring the ends of your first bracelet together deeply, ensuring no gaps between beads. Tie a surgeon’s knot (looping the elastic through twice) for extra security.
2. Secure with adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Let it dry for a minute before proceeding.
3. Hide the knot:
   Trim the excess elastic close to the knot, then gently pull the cord so the knot slides inside the hole of the nearest bead.
4. Repeat for all strands:
   Repeat the tying and gluing process for the remaining three bracelets.

Slide on your new stack and enjoy the warm, tropical vibes all year round

Channel the crisp, clean lines of a classic sailor shirt with this easy-to-make heishi bead bracelet. The alternating navy and white pattern creates a timeless nautical look, accented by subtle hints of sandy beige to warm up the cool tones.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Preparation

1. Measure your wrist:
   Before cutting anything, wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find your comfortable size, then add about an inch for wiggle room.
2. Prepare the cord:
   Cut a length of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. Having extra length makes the final knotting process much less frustrating.
3. Secure the end:
   Attach a piece of tape or a bead stopper to one end of your elastic cord to prevent your hard work from sliding off as you string.
4. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   Give your elastic cord a few firm tugs before you start beading; this pre-stretching helps prevent the bracelet from sagging or loosening after you start wearing it.

Step 2: Creating the Pattern

1. Establish the rhythm:
   Begin your pattern with a simple repeating sequence. String two navy blue beads followed by two white beads.
2. Build the base:
   Continue this 2-navy, 2-white pattern for about a third of the bracelet’s length. Keep the tension consistent so the beads sit flush against each other.
3. Add first accent:
   Break up the pattern by adding a single beige or tan accent bead. This little earthy touch mimics the sand and softens the high contrast of the blue and white.
4. Resume stripes:
   Go back to your primary pattern of two navy beads and two white beads. Continue this for another section of the bracelet.
5. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist. You want to see how the pattern is laying and ensure you aren’t making it too large or tight.
6. Insert second accent:
   Add your second beige accent bead. I like to place this roughly opposite the first one, or asymmetrical if you prefer a more organic look.
7. Complete the strand:
   Finish stringing your navy and white pattern until you reach your desired total length.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Remove the stopper:
   Carefully remove the tape or bead stopper from the end, holding both ends of the elastic firmly.
2. The first knot:
   Cross the ends and tie a simple overhand knot, pulling it tight so there are no gaps between the beads.
3. The surgeon’s knot:
   For extra security, tie a surgeon’s knot next. Cross the threads, loop one end through the circle twice, and pull firmly.
4. Secure with glue:
   Apply a tiny drop of jewelry cement or super glue directly onto the knot. Let this dry completely before moving on.
5. Hide the knot:
   Once the glue is dry, trim the excess elastic ends close to the knot. Gently pull the elastic to slide the knot inside the hole of a neighboring bead to hide it.

Slip on your new nautical accessory and enjoy a touch of the ocean wherever you go

Capture the calm of a coastal morning with this textured, neutral-toned bracelet that blends the organic look of wood with soft pops of sea glass blue. Combining polymer heishi beads, natural wood accents, and distinctive spacer beads creates a sophisticated yet relaxed accessory perfect for everyday wear.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning and Prep

1. Measure the cord:
   Cut a piece of beading elastic roughly 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra slack for tying the final knot without struggling.
2. Secure the end:
   Place a bead stopper or a piece of tape on one end of your elastic cord to prevent your hard work from sliding off as you string.
3. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Give your elastic a few gentle tugs before you begin. ‘Pre-stretching’ is a little trick I use to keep the bracelet from loosening up after the first few wears.

Step 2: Creating the Focal Section

1. Start with the focal point:
   Begin stringing with the silver pavé rhinestone bead, which will act as a shimmering focal point.
2. Add side accents:
   On the left of the rhinestone bead, slide on three cream heishi beads followed by one dark wood disc.
3. Mirror the right side:
   On the right side of the rhinestone bead, add one thick white disc spacer, followed by a single aqua blue heishi bead.
4. Continue the right pattern:
   Next to the aqua bead, string about five or six cream heishi beads, followed by one dark wood disc to balance the darker tone from the other side.

Step 3: Building the Pattern

1. Establish the neutral base:
   Continue stringing the cream/beige heishi beads as your main filler. Group them in sets of 4 to 8 beads.
2. Insert texture breaks:
   Every inch or so, interrupt the cream beads with a ‘feature’ bead. Slide on a textured white lava bead or a bone rondelle to add that organic, washed-ashore feel.
3. Layering the blues:
   Introduce the aqua blue heishi beads sparingly. Place one aqua bead next to a white spacer or a wood bead rather than grouping them together; this keeps the look subtle.
4. Adding wood warmth:
   Interject a light wood disc or a dark wood rondelle occasionally. Try sandwiching a section of cream beads between two different wood tones for variety.
5. Create the striped section:
   Midway through the strand, create a distinct striped section: bead one white disc, one dark wood bead, one white disc, and one dark wood bead.
6. Finish the strand:
   Continue adding your cream filler beads, occasional blues, and wood accents until the beaded length measures about 6.5 to 7 inches (or your desired wrist size).

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Check the fit:
   Wrap the strand around your wrist to check the sizing. Remember that heishi beads can fit snugly, so ensure it isn’t too tight.
2. Prepare to knot:
   Remove the bead stopper or tape carefully, holding both ends of the elastic firmly.
3. The surgeon’s knot:
   Tie a surgeon’s knot (a square knot with an extra loop through) to secure the bracelet. Pull the elastic tight enough so there are no gaps between beads, but not so tight that it puckers.
4. Secure the knot:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish onto the knot. Let this dry completely before moving on.
5. Hide and trim:
   Once dry, trim the excess cord close to the knot. If the hole of a neighboring bead is large enough, gently tuck the knot inside for a seamless finish.

Enjoy wearing your new shoreline-inspired accessory stacked with other favorites or solo for a simple statement

This elegant bracelet captures the essence of a serene beach walk by combining smooth sand-toned beads with creamy pearl-like accents and touches of gold. It’s a versatile accessory that feels both earthy and polished, perfect for layering or wearing solo on sun-kissed skin.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

1. Cut and secure the cord:
   Cut a piece of stretch cord about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room for knotting later. Attach a bead stopper or simply place a piece of masking tape on one end to prevent your beads from sliding off while you work.
2. Sort your bead palette:
   Lay out your beads on a bead mat or folded towel. Group them by type: the tan wooden beads, the smooth white rounds, the textured ‘berry’ beads, and the gold spacers. This makes the patterning process much faster.

Step 2: Stringing the Pattern

1. Begin the sequence:
   Start by sliding on five of the tan sand-colored beads. These will form a solid earthy section of the bracelet.
2. Add a creamy transition:
   Slide on two smooth white round beads. Follow this with a single textured white ‘berry’ bead to introduce a tactile element.
3. Insert the gold accent:
   Place a gold disc spacer on the cord, followed by a smooth white round bead, another gold disc spacer, and finally one more textured white bead. This creates the central focal point of the design.
4. Mirror the pattern:
   Now, add two more distinct tan beads. Then, string on one textured white bead, flanked by a gold spacer on its right side.
5. Building the back section:
   Add a sequence of three smooth white round beads. Follow this with a single gold spacer.
6. Continue the neutral tones:
   Thread on two tan beads. Then, add a unique detail: one white sculpted shell or disc bead (if you have one) followed by a gold spacer.
7. Complete the circle:
   Finish the strand by adding the remaining tan beads until you reach your desired length. A standard wrist size usually requires about 6.5 to 7 inches of total beaded length.
8. Check the fit:
   Wrap the beaded strand carefully around your wrist to check the size. Ideally, the ends should meet comfortably without stretching the cord yet. Add or remove a few tan beads at the end if necessary.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Before tying, hold both ends of the cord and give it a few gentle tugs. This pre-stretching step is crucial as it prevents the bracelet from sagging or loosening up after you wear it a few times.
2. Tie the first knot:
   Remove the bead stopper. Bring the two ends of the cord together and tie a simpler overhand knot, pulling it tight so the beads sit snug against each other with no gaps.
3. Secure with a surgeon’s knot:
   For the main security, tie a surgeon’s knot. This is just like a standard square knot, but loop the cord through twice before pulling tight. I find this creates a much stronger hold for elastic jewelry.
4. Apply adhesive:
   Dab a tiny drop of jewelry glue directly onto the knot. Be careful not to engage the beads themselves, just the knot.
5. hide the knot:
   While the glue is still tacky, gently pull the cord so the knot slides inside the hole of the nearest large bead. This hides the mechanics for a professional finish.
6. Trim the excess:
   Once the glue has fully dried (usually 10-15 minutes), use your scissors to trim the excess cord ends as close to the bead hole as possible without nicking your knot.

Slip on your new creation and enjoy the subtle seaside vibes it brings to your outfit

Capture the essence of a tropical getaway with this chunky, textured bead necklace featuring alternating blocks of soft teal and warm oversized yellow beads. The sandy, matte finish gives these hand-rolled beads an organic, sea-tumbled look perfect for beach days.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Creating the Clay Mix

1. Condition the yellow base:
   Start by warming up your mango yellow polymer clay in your hands until it is soft and pliable.
2. Add texture to yellow:
   To achieve that organic, sandy look from the photo, mix a very small amount of granite or speckled beige clay into your yellow. Don’t mix it completely; leave faint streaks or speckles visible.
3. Condition the teal base:
   Repeat the process with your lagoon green clay, conditioning it until soft.
4. Add texture to teal:
   Mix a pinch of the speckled clay into the teal as well to ensure the finish matches the yellow beads.

Step 2: Forming the Beads

1. Portioning:
   Pinch off equal-sized chunks of your clay. You’ll want these quite large for that chunky statement look—aim for balls about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
2. Rolling:
   Roll each chunk between your palms. Don’t worry about making them perfectly spherical; a little organic irregularity adds to the beachy charm.
3. Texturing:
   Before piercing, gently roll the surface of your beads over rough sandpaper or tap them with a stiff toothbrush. This creates the matte, pitted texture visible in the image.
4. Piercing:
   Using a toothpick or bead pin, carefully pierce a hole through the center of each bead. I like to rotate the bead while pushing the tool through to prevent it from squishing.
5. Widening the holes:
   Wiggle the toothpick in a circular motion to widen the hole slightly, ensuring your thicker cord will fit through later.
6. Baking:
   Arrange your beads on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake according to your polymer clay package instructions (usually 275°F/135°C for 30 minutes).
7. Cooling:
   Let the beads cool completely before handling them, as they are fragile when hot.

Step 3: Assembly

1. Cut the cord:
   Cut a length of cream waxed cord or suede lace. Measure it against your neck to find your preferred hang length, adding extra for knots.
2. Start the pattern:
   Begin stringing your beads. The pattern in the photo uses color blocking: string two or three yellow beads, followed by one or two teal beads.
3. Add variety:
   In the center or transition areas, string one teal, one yellow, and repeat, creating a fun asymmetry.
4. Incorporate wood:
   Towards the ends of your beaded section, add the smaller natural wooden spacer beads. This transitions the chunky clay beads nicely into the bare cord.
5. Securing the slope:
   If your beads slide too much, you can tie a simple overhand knot in the cord before and after the bead section to keep them centered.
6. Finishing the ends:
   Tie the ends of your cord together with a strong double knot or add a clasp if you prefer a more polished closure.

Now you have a stunning, tactile accessory that brings a bit of summer sunshine to any outfit

Capture the essence of a seaside stroll with this charming beaded bracelet featuring a handmade clay sand dollar centerpiece. The mix of terracotta, turquoise, and creamy white beads creates a relaxed, bohemian vibe perfect for summer wear.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Sculpting the Sand Dollar

1. Condition the clay:
   Begin by taking a small ball of white clay and kneading it in your hands until it is soft, pliable, and free of cracks.
2. Flatten the disc:
   Press the ball flat onto a non-stick surface until it is about 1/4 inch thick. Use your small round cutter or a bottle cap to cut a perfect circle.
3. Smooth the edges:
   Dip your finger in a tiny bit of water and gently run it around the circumference of the clay circle to soften the sharp cut edge, giving it a weathered, natural look.
4. Mark the center:
   Using a needle tool, lightly press a tiny dot into the exact center of the disc to guide your design.
5. Create the star pattern:
   Press the side of your needle tool or a small sculpting tool gently into the clay, radiating outward from the center dot to create five distinct petal shapes like a flower.
6. Add detail holes:
   Poke five small holes near the tips of your star pattern, ensuring they go all the way through if you want a realistic look, or just indentations for texture.
7. Drill the hanging hole:
   Carefully pierce a hole near the top edge of the sand dollar for the jump ring. I like to wiggle the tool slightly to ensure the hole is large enough for the hardware.
8. Dry or bake:
   Allow the clay to dry (for air-dry) or bake it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once hard, lightly sand any rough spots.

Step 2: Beading and Assembly

1. Attach the hardware:
   Open a jump ring with pliers, slide it through the hole in your clay sand dollar, and gently close it securely.
2. Prepare the cord:
   Cut a length of elastic cord or beading wire about 10 inches long to give yourself plenty of room to work.
3. Center the focal piece:
   Thread the sand dollar onto the cord and slide it to the middle point.
4. Start the bead pattern:
   On both sides of the pendant, thread three or four cream-colored wooden spacer beads to frame the centerpiece.
5. Add gold accents:
   Slide a small gold spacer bead next to the cream beads on a few selected intervals to add a touch of shine.
6. Integrate color:
   Begin alternating your colored beads. Use a pattern like: one terracotta, two cream spacers, one turquoise, and one dark blue bead.
7. Check the fit:
   Continue the pattern until the strand wraps comfortably around your wrist. Wrap it around your arm occasionally to check the sizing.
8. Secure the ends:
   If using elastic, tie a strong surgeon’s knot and dab with glue. If using wire, thread on a crimp bead and one half of your clasp, then loop back through the crimp bead and flattening it with pliers.
9. Hide the knot:
   If you used elastic, gently pull the knot inside one of the larger wooden beads to conceal it for a professional finish.

Now you have a breezy accessory that carries a little piece of the beach with you wherever you go

This earthy, textured bracelet combines the warmth of polymer clay heishi beads with the organic beauty of sea shells. The centerpiece is a delicate white scallop shell, flanked by speckles of terrazzo-style accents for a look that feels like a walk on the dunes.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Setting the Foundation

1. Prepare the Cord:
   Cut a piece of stretch cord about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room for tying knots later without struggling.
2. Pre-stretch the Elastic:
   Hold the cord at both ends and give it a few gentle but firm tugs. This pre-stretching helps prevent the bracelet from sagging or loosening up immediately after you wear it.
3. Secure the End:
   Place a piece of tape over one end of the cord or attach a bead stopper. This creates a safety net so your beads don’t slide off while you’re working.

Step 2: Creating the Pattern

1. Start the Base:
   Begin threading your tan heishi beads onto the cord. Start with a segment of about 1.5 to 2 inches of just the tan discs to form the back section of the bracelet.
2. Add the First Accent:
   Slide on one of the white terrazzo or shell-chip tube beads. These lighter beads break up the tan color and add that ‘crushed shell’ aesthetic.
3. Continue the Tan Pattern:
   Add another segment of tan heishi beads. Aim for about 1 inch here, though you can adjust this length based on your wrist size.
4. Second Accent:
   Add your second terrazzo tube bead. I like to check the symmetry here by holding the ends together to ensure the accents are sitting where I want them.
5. Approach the Center:
   Thread on a shorter segment of tan heishi beads, about 0.5 to 0.75 inches long, leading up to the focal point.
6. Add Texture:
   Place one beige wooden or matte spacer bead onto the cord. This acts as a buffer before the main focal cluster.

Step 3: The Focal Point

1. Attach the Charm:
   Using pliers (or your fingers if the ring is soft enough), open the gold jump ring and loop it through the hole in your white scallop shell.
2. Thread the Center Bead:
   Take your main speckled focal bead or large tube bead. Slide the jump ring (with the shell attached) onto the cord, positioning it so it sits directly next to or slightly over this central bead depending on the hole size.
3. Secure the Charm Position:
   Alternatively, thread the cord through the speckled focal bead first, and hang the jump ring directly onto the cord between the focal bead and the next spacer. This lets the shell dangle freely.
4. Complete the Center:
   Add a second beige wooden/matte spacer bead on the other side of the charm cluster to mirror the first one.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Mirror the Pattern:
   Now, work backwards to complete the symmetry. Thread a short segment of tan heishi beads.
2. Add Remaining Accents:
   Add your final terrazzo tube bead followed by another 1-inch section of tan heishi beads.
3. Check the Size:
   Wrap the unfinished bracelet around your wrist to check the fit. If gaps remain, add more tan heishi beads to the ends until it fits comfortably comfortably without squeezing.
4. Tie the Knot:
   Remove the tape/stopper. Bring the two ends together and tie a surgeon’s knot (loop the cord through twice before pulling tight).
5. Secure and Trim:
   Apply a tiny drop of jewelry glue to the knot. Let it dry for a few minutes, then trim the excess cord close to the knot, tucking the knot inside a nearby bead if the hole allows.

Slip on your new creation and enjoy the calming coastal vibes it brings to your outfit

Capture the crashing waves and foamy sea spray with this stunning marbled clay bracelet. The organic swirls of indigo, sky blue, and bright white create a mesmerizing pattern that ensures no two beads are ever exactly alike, making your piece truly one-of-a-kind.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Clay

1. Condition the clay:
   Start by kneading each block of clay individually until it is soft and pliable. You want the white, dark blue, and sky blue to be warm enough that they won’t crack when you start mixing.
2. Create snakes:
   Roll each color into a long snake shape, about the thickness of a pencil. Make two snakes of white, one of dark blue, and one of sky blue to keep the overall tone bright and airy.
3. Twist together:
   Gather your four snakes and twist them together into one large rope. Fold this rope in half and twist it again. Repeat this twist-and-fold process about 4-5 times.
4. Roll smooth:
   Once you have a nicely twisted rope, roll it on your work surface to smooth it out into a single, uniform log again.

Step 2: Marbling and Shaping

1. Check the swirl:
   Slice the log in half to check the cross-section. If the marbling isn’t intricate enough for your taste, you can twist and fold a few more times, but be careful not to over-mix into a solid muddy color.
2. Portion the beads:
   Using your blade, slice the log into equal-sized segments. For the chunky look in the photo, aim for segments about 3/4 inch thick.
3. Form the spheres:
   Take a segment and roll it swiftly between your palms to form a ball. I like to vigorously roll it initially to merge seams, then lighten my touch to perfect the sphere shape.
4. Expose the pattern:
   Examine each bead. If the swirliest parts are hidden, you can gently pinch and twist the surface clay to rearrange the pattern before the final smoothing roll.

Step 3: Piercing and Baking

1. Pierce holes:
   Ideally while the bead is still pliable, gently twist a bead pin or toothpick through the center. Rotate the bead as you push to avoid squashing it.
2. Smooth the exit:
   When the pin pokes through the other side, smooth down any clay that puckered out around the hole exit with your finger to ensure a clean bead finish.
3. Baking setup:
   Arrange the beads on a piece of parchment paper or a ceramic tile. You can leave them on the pins suspended over a foil tray to prevent flat spots, or gently rest them on a bed of cornstarch.
4. Bake:
   Bake according to your polymer clay manufacturer’s instructions (usually around 275°F for 15-30 minutes). Let them cool completely before handling.

Step 4: Finishing and Assembly

1. Sand for smoothness:
   Use wet/dry sandpaper under running water to gently sand away any fingerprints or rough spots. This gives the beads that smooth, sea-glass feel.
2. Gloss coat:
   For the shiny, wet look seen in the photo, apply a thin coat of gloss glaze or UV resin to each bead and let it cure fully.
3. Stringing:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10 inches long. Pre-stretch the cord by pulling on it gently a few times to prevent it from sagging later.
4. Add beads:
   Thread your marbled beads onto the elastic until the bracelet is the correct size for your wrist. The bracelet in the image uses about 15-18 large beads.
5. Tie the knot:
   Tie a secure surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right, loop twice). Pull it tight gently.
6. Secure and hide:
   Place a tiny drop of jewelry glue on the knot. Once dry, trim the excess cord and tuck the knot inside the hole of a neighboring bead.

Enjoy wearing your new ocean-inspired accessory that brings a bit of the beach to your everyday style

Capture the magic of twilight on the shore with this three-strand bracelet stack featuring deep ocean hues and a striking glow-in-the-dark accent bead. The combination of matte sandstone textures, porous lava rock, and smooth turquoise creates a tactile experience that feels just like a day at the beach.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Planning the Deep Sea Strand

1. Measure your wrist:
   Start by measuring your wrist with a flexible tape measure. Add about 0.5 inches to this measurement to determine the ideal finished length for a comfortable fit.
2. Cut the cord:
   Cut a piece of clear elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. This extra length makes tying the final knot much easier than fighting with short ends.
3. Secure the end:
   Place a bead stopper or a piece of masking tape on one end of the cord to prevent your beads from sliding off while you work.
4. String the matte black beads:
   Begin stringing the 8mm matte black agate beads. These form the ‘midnight ocean’ layer of the stack. Continue adding them until you reach your target length.
5. Check the fit:
   Wrap the strand around your wrist to check the size. It should sit comfortably without pinching or sliding too much.
6. Tie it off:
   Tie a surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right, looping through twice) to secure the strand. Pull tight, dab the knot with a tiny drop of glue, let it dry, and trim the excess cord.

Step 2: Creating the Texture Layer

1. Prepare the second cord:
   Cut another 12-inch length of elastic cord and secure the end just as you did for the first strand.
2. Select porous beads:
   For this middle layer, select the 8mm blue lava stone beads. The pitted texture mimics volcanic rock found on rugged coastlines.
3. String the texture strand:
   Thread the blue lava beads onto the cord. I sometimes like to rotate the beads to ensure the most interesting textures face outward.
4. Verify sizing:
   Compare this strand against the first black strand; they should be exactly the same length so they stack neatly without tangling.
5. Finish the strand:
   Tie your surgeon’s knot, apply a dot of glue for security, and trim closely once the glue is fully set.

Step 3: Building the Glow Focal Strand

1. Start the final cord:
   Prepare your third and final piece of elastic cord, securing the end with your stopper.
2. String the base turquoise:
   Begin adding about half of the 8mm matte turquoise beads. These lighter beads represent the shallow water.
3. Add the white accent:
   Incorporate a single white lava or pumice bead into the sequence if you want that extra bit of organic grit shown on the right side of the photo.
4. Position the focal point:
   Once you have strung enough turquoise beads to reach the center of the bracelet, slide on one silver spacer disk.
5. Add the glow bead:
   Thread on the 10mm glow-in-the-dark focal bead. Follow it immediately with the second silver spacer disk to frame the ‘bioluminescence’.
6. Complete the loop:
   Finish stringing the rest of the turquoise beads until the strand matches the length of the previous two bracelets.
7. Final secure knot:
   Tie your final surgeon’s knot carefully. Try to hide the knot inside the hole of one of the beads adjacent to the focal point if the bead hole is large enough.
8. Seal and trim:
   Apply your adhesive to the knot, allow it to cure completely, and trim the excess cord for a clean, professional finish.

Wear your new stack to the beach at dusk to see that center bead truly shine against the fading light