18+ Stylish Polymer Clay Bracelet Ideas You Can Make Today

Embrace a full spectrum of color with this vibrant bracelet made from flat, disc-shaped polymer clay beads. The smooth transition between hues creates a sophisticated rainbow gradient that adds a pop of joy to any wrist stack.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Clay

1. Condition the Clay:
   Begin by kneading each color of polymer clay until it is soft and pliable. You want a consistent texture across all colors to ensure the beads bake evenly.
2. Roll Out Sheets:
   Roll each color into a flat, even sheet. If using a pasta machine, I usually set it to a medium thickness (around setting 3 or 4). If rolling by hand, aim for about 2-3mm thickness.
3. Cut the Discs:
   Use your small circle cutter or a sturdy drinking straw to punch out numerous circles from each color sheet. You will need roughly 8-12 discs per color section for an adult-sized bracelet.
4. Create the Bead Holes:
   Use a needle tool or toothpick to carefully pierce the precise center of each clay disc. Wiggle the tool slightly to ensure the hole is large enough for your elastic cord.

Step 2: Baking the Beads

1. Arrangement for Baking:
   Place your raw clay discs onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread them out so they aren’t touching, often referred to as ‘flat baking’ to keep their shape perfect.
2. Bake Instructions:
   Bake the clay according to the manufacturer’s instructions on your specific brand of clay—usually around 275°F (135°C) for 15–20 minutes. It’s better to slightly over-bake than under-bake these durable discs.
3. Cool Down:
   Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the beads cool completely before handling. They will harden fully as they cool.

Step 3: Assembly

1. Plan the Gradient:
   Lay your cooled beads out on your work surface in rainbow order. To match the photo, follow this sequence: deep red, orange, yellow-orange, yellow, pink, dusty rose, purple, indigo, royal blue, sky blue, teal, green, lime green.
2. Cut the Cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra slack for tying the knot later.
3. Pre-stretch the Elastic:
   Give the elastic cord a few firm tugs before stringing. This ‘pre-stretching’ helps prevent the bracelet from sagging or stretching out permanently after the first wear.
4. String the Beads:
   Thread the beads onto the cord, grouping them by color. Use about 8-10 beads of the same color before switching to the next hue to create distinct blocks of color.
5. Check the Size:
   Wrap the strung beads around your wrist to check the fit. Add or remove beads as necessary, keeping the color pattern balanced.
6. Tie the Knot:
   Using a surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right twice), tie the ends of the elastic together tightly. Pull firmly to secure.
7. Secure the Knot:
   Place a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. I find letting this dry for a minute ensures it won’t slip undone unexpectedly.
8. Hide the Ends:
   Trim the excess elastic close to the knot, leaving about 2mm. Gently wiggle the beads so the knot slides inside the hole of the nearest bead, hiding it from view.

Enjoy wearing your custom-made rainbow wrist candy or stack a few together for a bold statement look

Brighten up your wrist stack with this cheerful color-blocked bracelet featuring trendy vinyl disc beads and metallic accents. The combination of punchy coral-pink, cool teal, and gleaming gold creates a classic preppy aesthetic that’s perfect for summer vibes.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Planning the Pattern

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find your comfortable size. For a standard fit, aim for about 7 inches of total length, but adjust based on your preference.
2. Analyze the pattern blocks:
   Look closely at the design. It relies on distinct blocks of color separated by gold accents. You will need longer sections of the pink beads and shorter, alternating sections of teal and pink.
3. Lay out your design:
   Before stringing, lay your beads on a bead board or a towel. Create a long section of just pink beads (about 1.5 to 2 inches). Then, create alternating smaller sections of teal and pink.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

1. Prepare the cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 12 inches long. Having this extra length makes tying the final knot much easier than struggling with short ends.
2. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   Give your elastic cord a few gentle tugs. I find this pre-stretching step crucial because it prevents the bracelet from loosening up and sagging after you wear it a few times.
3. Start with the main pink block:
   Thread on your long section of coral pink disc beads first. Based on the image, this looks like a solid run of about 20-25 beads.
4. Add the first gold accent:
   Slide on one gold spacer bead after your pink block. This metallic break defines the sections clearly.
5. Create a teal block:
   String on a shorter section of turquoise beads. Aim for about 8 to 10 beads here to create a nice contrast without overwhelming the pink.
6. Add another gold spacer:
   Place a second gold spacer bead to cap off the teal section.
7. String a short pink block:
   Add a small section of pink beads, roughly the same size as your teal block (8-10 beads).
8. Continue the pattern:
   Repeat this sequence—gold spacer, teal block, gold spacer, pink block—until you reach your desired length. Ensure every colored block is bookended by a gold bead.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Check the fit:
   Wrap the strung beads around your wrist to check the size. The ends should meet comfortably without pulling the elastic tight.
2. Tie the surgeon’s knot:
   Bring the two ends of the elastic together. Cross right over left, then left over right. Loop the top strand through the knot a second time before pulling tight.
3. Secure the knot:
   Pull the cords firmly to tighten the knot. Apply a tiny dot of super glue or jewelry adhesive directly onto the knot to freeze it in place.
4. Hide the knot:
   While the glue is still slightly tacky but not wet, gently pull on the cord so the knot slides inside the hole of the nearest bead.
5. Trim the ends:
   Once dry, use your scissors to snip the excess elastic cord close to the bead, being careful not to cut the main cord.

Now you have a vibrant, custom accessory ready to mix and match with your other summer favorites

Capture the soft, transitioning hues of dusk with this elegant polymer clay heishi bead bracelet. The design uses a smooth ombré fade from deep maroon to pale blush pink, punctuated by sophisticated gold accents.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Creating the Clay Heishi Beads

1. Condition the Clay:
   Begin by thoroughly conditioning your three colors of polymer clay—maroon, dusky pink, and blush—until they are soft and pliable. If the colors are too distinct, blend small amounts together to create intermediate transition shades for a smoother gradient.
2. Establish Thickness:
   Roll each color out into a sheet. For uniform thickness, use a pasta machine on a medium-thin setting (around 2mm) or use an acrylic roller with playing cards stacked on either side as guides.
3. Cut the Discs:
   Using a very small round cutter or the circle die of a clay extruder, cut out many small circles from each color sheet. You will need roughly 40-50 discs of the darkest shade and 60-70 of the lighter shades, depending on your wrist size.
4. Pierce the Holes:
   Gently pierce the center of each clay circle with a needle tool or bead pin. I find it easier to do this while the clay is still on the work surface to avoid distorting the circular shape.
5. Bake the Beads:
   String the raw clay beads onto bead pins or a designated baking rack to keep the holes open. Bake according to your polymer clay manufacturer’s instructions (usually 275°F/130°C for 15-30 minutes). Let them cool completely before handling.

Step 2: Assembly and Finishing

1. Prepare the Wire:
   Cut a length of beading wire approximately 10 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room to work with the clasp mechanism.
2. Secure the First End:
   Thread a crimp bead onto one end of the wire, followed by a jump ring attached to your lobster clasp. Loop the wire back through the crimp bead.
3. Crimp and Trim:
   Use your flat nose pliers to squash the crimp bead firmly, securing the wire. Trim the short excess tail of the wire, leaving just a tiny bit to be hidden inside the first few beads.
4. Begin the Dark Section:
   Start threading your beads. Begin with the darkest maroon clay discs. Thread a stack of about 20-25 dark beads to create the bold anchor section of the bracelet.
5. Add the First Gold Accent:
   After the dark block, slide on one gold connector bead. This metallic break signals the start of the color transition.
6. Transition to Mid-Tones:
   Now switch to your mid-tone dusky pink beads. Thread a section slightly longer than the first, perhaps 30-35 beads, creating the main body of color.
7. Second Gold Accent:
   Place your second gold connector bead. Notice how the gold warms up the pink tones beautifully.
8. Add the Lightest Section:
   Finish the clay beading with the pale blush discs. Thread roughly 25-30 of these beads until the bracelet reaches nearly your desired length.
9. Final Gold Detail:
   Add one final gold spacer bead or a small clay bead in a contrasting tone (like cream) at the very end for a polished look.
10. Close the Loop:
    Thread a crimp bead onto the end of the wire, followed by the jump ring attached to your extender chain.
11. Thread Back:
    Pass the wire back through the crimp bead and into the last few heishi beads. Pull everything taut so there are no gaps in the clay stack, but not so tight that the bracelet becomes stiff.
12. Final Crimp:
    Flatten the crimp bead securely with your pliers and trim the remaining wire tail flush against the beads.

Now you have a sophisticated accessory that pairs perfectly with both casual daywear and evening outfits

Embrace the effortless vibe of surfer-style jewelry with this crisp white polymer clay bracelet featuring bold cobalt accents. The flat, disc-shaped heishi beads create a smooth, satisfying texture that sits perfectly on the wrist for everyday wear.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Prepping The Clay

1. Condition the white clay:
   Begin by warming the white polymer clay in your hands to soften it. Knead and roll it repeatedly until it is pliable and free of any air bubbles.
2. Roll out a sheet:
   Using your acrylic roller or pasta machine, roll the conditioned white clay into a flat, even sheet. Aim for a thickness of roughly 3mm to 4mm—this thickness determines how chunky the discs will look from the side.
3. Condition the blue clay:
   Repeat the conditioning process with the cobalt blue clay. Ensure your hands and tools are clean before switching colors to avoid staining.
4. Match the thickness:
   Roll the blue clay into a sheet of the exact same thickness as the white sheet to ensure the bracelet has a uniform profile.

Step 2: Cutting The Beads

1. Protect the surface:
   Place a piece of plastic wrap lightly over the white clay sheet. This helps create slightly rounded edges when cutting, rather than harsh, sharp corners.
2. Cut the white discs:
   Press your small round cutter firmly through the plastic and clay. You will need roughly 40-50 white discs depending on your wrist size.
3. Cut the blue discs:
   Using the same method, cut out approximately 10 to 12 blue discs. These will form the pop of color sections.
4. Create center holes:
   Peel away the excess clay. Use a toothpick or needle tool to pierce the exact center of each disc. I prefer to rotate the tool gently to create a clean hole without distorting the round shape.
5. Smooth the edges:
   Gently pick up each bead and lightly tap the edges with your finger to smooth out any handling marks or irregularities.

Step 3: Baking and Finishing

1. Arrange on baking sheet:
   Lay the pierced clay discs flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t touching each other to prevent fusing.
2. Bake the beads:
   Bake according to your polymer clay manufacturer’s instructions—usually around 275°F (135°C) for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the white clay to ensure it doesn’t scorch or yellow.
3. Cool completely:
   Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the beads to cool fully before handling. They harden as they cool.
4. Optional sanding:
   For an ultra-professional finish, lightly wet-sand the edges of the beads with 400 and then 800 grit sandpaper to remove any fingerprints or ridges.

Step 4: Assembly

1. Measure the cord:
   Cut a length of elastic cord about 10 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room to tie the knot comfortably.
2. Pre-stretch the elastic:
   Give the elastic cord a few firm tugs. This pre-stretching step is crucial so the bracelet doesn’t become loose the first time you wear it.
3. Begin stringing white beads:
   Thread roughly half of your white beads onto the elastic cord.
4. Add first color pop:
   Thread on a group of 5 or 6 blue beads to create the first color block.
5. String remaining white beads:
   Add the rest of your white beads to the cord, creating the main body of the bracelet.
6. Add second color pop:
   Finish by threading the remaining 5 or 6 blue beads. This arrangement places the color pops opposite each other or spaced out, depending on how the bracelet rotates.
7. Tie the knot:
   Bring the ends together and tie a secure surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right, looping through twice). Pull it tight.
8. Secure and trim:
   Add a tiny dab of super glue to the knot. Once dry, trim the excess elastic tails close to the knot and gently slide a bead over it to hide the connection.

Slide your new custom-fit bracelet onto your wrist and enjoy the minimalist pop of color combined with that classic surf style

Elevate simple polymer clay disc beads into a statement stack by incorporating luxurious gold accents. This trio combines soft cream and terracotta tones with strategically placed gold spacers and focal beads for a high-end, boutique look.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparation & Planning

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a measuring tape loosely around your wrist to determine your size. Add about 0.5 to 1 inch to this measurement depending on how loose you want the fit.
2. Cut the elastic:
   Cut three lengths of elastic cord, each about 10-12 inches long. This generous length gives you plenty of room to tie secure knots later.
3. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Hold each piece of elastic between your hands and give it a few firm tugs. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelets from stretching out and becoming loose after just a few wears.
4. Secure the ends:
   Place a piece of tape or a bead stopper on one end of each elastic cord so your beads don’t slide right off while you work.

Step 2: Middle Peach Bracelet

1. Start the pattern:
   Begin threading the terracotta/peach polymer clay discs onto your first cord. Thread on about 2 inches of these base beads.
2. Add the focal section:
   Slide on a textured gold rondelle spacer, followed by a large smooth gold ball, and then another textured gold rondelle. This creates the shiny centerpiece of the bracelet.
3. Finish the strand:
   Continue adding peach polymer clay discs until you reach your desired total length.
4. Check the fit:
   Wrap the strand around your wrist to ensure the focal gold beads sit nicely on top and the ends meet comfortably without gaps.

Step 3: Cream Bracelet 1 (Gold Ball Accent)

1. Base beads first:
   On the second cord, thread cream polymer clay discs for approximately one-third of your total bracelet length.
2. Insert gold accent:
   Add one large smooth gold spherical bead. To frame it, I like to place a tiny gold spacer bead on either side, though the image shows it sitting boldly on its own amongst the clay.
3. Complete the circle:
   Fill the rest of the cord with cream discs until it matches the length of your first bracelet.

Step 4: Cream Bracelet 2 (Pave Accent)

1. Thread base section:
   For the third bracelet, thread cream discs just like before, filling about one-third of the length.
2. Create the texture:
   Slide the textured gold rondelle bead onto the cord. If you want more sparkle, you can sandwich this between two small gold ball spacers.
3. Final beading:
   Finish threading cream discs until the strand is complete.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. The surgeon’s knot:
   Take the ends of your first bracelet. Cross right over left, then left over right, looping the end through twice before pulling tight. This double-loop makes the knot extra secure.
2. Secure with glue:
   Place a tiny dab of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Let it dry for a minute while holding the elastic taut.
3. Hide the knot:
   Thread one of the tail ends back through the nearest adjacent bead. Gently pull the elastic until the knot pops inside that bead, hiding it from view.
4. Trim excess:
   Carefully snip off the excess elastic cord close to the bead, being careful not to cut the main knot or the bracelet itself.
5. Repeat and stack:
   Repeat the tying and finishing process for the other two bracelets. Stack them together on your wrist so the gold accents are slightly staggered for that effortless, layered look.

Enjoy wearing your chic new bracelet stack, versatile enough for casual days or dressed-up evenings

Create a sophisticated personalized bracelet that combines the softness of matte polymer clay tones with the elegance of gold accents. This design features a balanced mix of terracotta, blush pink, and white beads framing a central name, perfect for a thoughtful gift or a custom accessory.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Creating the Clay Clay Beads

1. Condition the Custom Colors:
   Begin by conditioning your polymer clay. You’ll want three distinct shades: a deep terracotta, a soft blush pink, and a crisp white. Knead each color until soft and pliable.
2. Roll Small Spheres:
   Pinch off tiny amounts of clay and roll them between your palms to create small, uniform spheres. Aim for a diameter similar to a pea, around 6mm. Make about 10-12 terracotta, 4-6 pink, and 6-8 white beads.
3. Create Texture (Optional):
   For the white beads, try adding a ribbed texture similar to the ones near the clasp. You can do this by gently rolling a toothpick or needle tool vertically around the bead’s circumference.
4. Pierce the Holes:
   Using a bead reamer or a toothpick, carefully pierce a hole through the center of each clay sphere. Rotate the tool as you push through to avoid squishing the bead’s round shape.
5. Bake the Beads:
   Arrange your raw clay beads on a baking sheet lined with paper. Bake according to your brand of clay’s instructions—usually around 275°F (130°C) for 15-30 minutes. Let them cool completely before handling.

Step 2: Stringing the Design

1. Prepare the Wire:
   Cut a length of beading wire approximately 10 inches long. This gives you plenty of slack to work with on both ends.
2. Secure the First End:
   Thread a crimp bead onto one end of the wire, followed by a jump ring attached to one half of your clasp. Loop the wire back through the crimp bead and use your crimping pliers to flatten it securely.
3. Start the Left Side Pattern:
   Begin stringing from what will be the left side of the name. Slide on about 4-5 terracotta clay beads. Following this, add a small gold spacer, a white bead, another gold spacer, and another white bead.
4. Transition Sequence:
   Add a smooth pink clay bead, followed by a gold spacer bead. Then, add a white clay bead.
5. Center the Name:
   Thread your letter beads onto the wire to spell ‘EMMA’ (or your chosen name). Ensure the letters are facing the correct way so they are legible when worn.
6. Mirror the Right Side:
   Now, recreate the pattern in reverse order. Start with a white clay bead, a gold spacer, and a pink clay bead.
7. Add Decorative Accents:
   String on a textured white bead, followed by a gold spacer and a smooth pink bead to mirror the other side’s transition.
8. Incorporate Gold Features:
   Add visual interest here by sliding on a textured gold bead, a smooth gold bead, and another gold accent. This breaks up the clay pattern beautifully.
9. Finish the Bead Strand:
   Complete the strand with the remaining terracotta beads (around 4-5) to match the start of the bracelet.
10. Check the Fit:
    Before closing, wrap the bracelet around your wrist to check the length. Add or remove terracotta beads at the ends if adjustments are needed.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Crimp the End:
   Thread a crimp bead onto the remaining open wire end. Add the jump ring with the other part of the clasp.
2. Secure the Loop:
   Pass the wire back through the crimp bead and pull it tight, leaving just a tiny bit of slack so the bracelet remains flexible and isn’t stiff.
3. Trim Excess Wire:
   Flatten the crimp bead firmly with your pliers. Use wire cutters to snip off the excess tail of wire as close to the bead as possible.
4. Arrange the Beads:
   Gently massage the bead line so everything sits evenly. The polymer clay beads have a lovely matte finish that contrasts nicely with the shiny gold, so ensure they aren’t sticking together.

Now you have a beautifully personalized accessory that balances handmade warmth with professional polish

Bring a dose of dopamine to your wrist with this cheerful stack of Heishi bead bracelets. Featuring a sunny yellow smiley face focal and vibrant stripes of pink, purple, teal, and peach, this layered look is perfect for brightening any outfit.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning Your Stack

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find your size, then add about half an inch for a comfortable fit. Cut three pieces of elastic cord to this length plus an extra 3-4 inches for tying knots.
2. Secure the ends:
   Attach a piece of tape or a bead stopper to one end of each elastic cord to prevent beads from sliding off while you work.
3. Layout the designs:
   Before stringing, lay out your bead patterns on a bead board or a soft towel. You are aiming for three distinct strands: a smiley focal strand, a solid/striped strand, and a mixed stripe strand.

Step 2: Creating the Smiley Focal Bracelet

1. Start the center:
   Thread your yellow smiley face bead onto the first cord. This will be the centerpiece.
2. Add gold accents:
   Place one small gold spacer bead on immediate left and right sides of the smiley face.
3. Build the white section:
   String approximately 1-1.5 inches of white Heishi beads on either side of the gold spacers.
4. Introduce color blocks:
   Transition to color by adding a section of teal beads, followed by a section of purple beads on both sides. Keep these sections symmetrical or playful depending on your taste.
5. Finish the strand:
   Fill the rest of the cord length with alternating sections of color until you reach your desired wrist size.

Step 3: Beading the Supporting Bracelets

1. String the pink & peach bracelet:
   For the second bracelet, focus on warm tones. String a long section of hot pink beads, covering about half the bracelet.
2. Add a gold focal:
   Slide on a small gold spacer bead as a subtle transition point.
3. Complete the warm loop:
   Finish this strand with the lighter peach/salmon colored beads to create a two-tone effect.
4. Begin the multi-color stripe bracelet:
   For the third strand, create a pattern of alternating stripes. Start with a block of yellow beads.
5. Insert a textured bead:
   Place a larger textured gold bead (often called stardust beads) after your yellow section for a touch of sparkle.
6. Create the stripe pattern:
   Continue stringing beads in blocks of color: peach, white, purple, and teal. Separate occasional sections with small gold spacers to tie the whole stack together.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Gently pull on the ends of your loaded elastic cords. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelets from sagging later on.
2. Tie the knots:
   Remove the tape/stoppers. Tie a surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right twice) on each bracelet, pulling tight to secure.
3. Secure with glue:
   Apply a tiny dot of jewelry glue directly onto each knot. I like to let this dry briefly for about a minute before moving on.
4. Hide the knot:
   If hole size permits, gently tug the elastic so the knot slides inside the hole of a neighboring bead, hiding it from view.
5. Trim excess:
   Snip the excess elastic cord close to the bead, being careful not to cut the knot itself.

Slide your colorful stack onto your wrist and enjoy the happy vibes you’ve created

Blend soft romance with playful pops of color in this delightful heishi bead bracelet. Featuring a mix of handmade polymer clay discs, gleaming gold accents, and organic freshwater pearls, this accessory is the perfect lighthearted addition to any jewelry stack.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Creating the Clay Heishi Beads

1. Condition the colors:
   Begin by conditioning your pink, mint, and yellow polymer clay separately. Knead each color until it is soft, pliable, and free of any air bubbles.
2. Roll out strands:
   For the most uniform beads, use a clay extruder with a small circle die to create long snakes of clay. If you don’t have an extruder, roll the clay by hand into even, thin logs about 4-5mm in diameter.
3. Slice the discs:
   Lay your clay logs on a smooth work surface. using your tissue blade, slice thin, even discs from the log. Aim for a thickness of about 1-2mm for that classic heishi look.
4. Pierce the holes:
   This is the delicate part. Use a needle tool to carefully pierce the center of each disc. I prefer to gently twist the needle as I push through to avoid distorting the circular shape.
5. Smooth the edges:
   Once pierced, you can gently tap the edges of the beads with your finger to round them off slightly if they were flattened during cutting.
6. Bake the beads:
   Arrange your raw clay beads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them according to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific brand of clay, usually at 275°F (130°C) for 15-30 minutes.
7. Cool down:
   Allow the beads to cool completely before handling them. They harden fully as they cool.

Step 2: Designing and Stringing

1. Prepare the wire:
   Cut a length of beading wire about 10 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room to work with the clasp mechanism.
2. Secure the first end:
   Thread a crimp bead onto one end of the wire, followed by the jump ring. Loop the wire back through the crimp bead and use your flat nose pliers to squash the crimp flat, securing the loop.
3. Start with color blocks:
   Begin stringing by creating small color blocks. Thread on 3-5 pink clay discs, followed by a gold spacer bead.
4. Create the pattern:
   Continue the pattern: add 3-5 mint green discs, another gold spacer, then 3-5 yellow discs. Feel free to vary the number of discs in each section for an organic feel.
5. Incorporate the pearls:
   Once you have about two inches of clay beads strung, introduce your first pearl. Flank the pearl with a gold spacer on either side to make it pop.
6. Build the center feature:
   For the focal point shown in the image, create a sequence of: Pearl, Gold Spacer, a stack of 5-6 white or cream clay discs (or shell heishi beads), Gold Spacer, Pearl.
7. Resume the pattern:
   Continue stringing the rest of the bracelet, mirroring the color blocking from the beginning until you reach your desired wrist length (usually around 6.5 to 7 inches).
8. Check the fit:
   Wrap the unfinished strand around your wrist to check the size. Remember the clasp will add about half an inch to the total length.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Add the clasp:
   Thread a crimp bead onto the open end of the wire, followed by the lobster clasp.
2. Secure the loop:
   Pass the wire back through the crimp bead and pull it tight, leaving just a tiny bit of slack so the beads can move flexibly.
3. Crimp and trim:
   Use your pliers to flatten the final crimp bead securely. Trim the excess wire tail flush with the crimp bead using your wire cutters.

Wear your new creation individually or stacked with gold bangles for a sophisticated summer vibe

Capture the calm of the coast with this beautifully textured bracelet blending smooth rounds, rustic wood, and delicate heishi spacers. The centerpiece is a stunning shell charm that brings the whole seaside look together.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Crafting the Clay Beads

1. Mix your colors:
   Start by conditioning your polymer clay. For the turquoise heishi beads, mix a mint green with a touch of blue to get that sea-glass hue. For the round beads, a simple off-white or cream works best to mimic pearls or smooth stones.
2. Form the round beads:
   Roll the cream clay into smooth, even balls, approximately 6-8mm in diameter. You’ll need about 12-16 of these depending on your wrist size.
3. Create the heishi discs:
   Roll out the turquoise clay into a thin, even sheet or snake. Slice small, consistent discs. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly identical; a little organic variation adds to the beachy feel.
4. Pierce the beads:
   Using a needle tool or toothpick, carefully poke a hole through the center of each clay bead. I find twisting the tool gently helps prevent the bead from squishing out of shape.
5. Bake and cool:
   Arrange your clay beads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake according to your clay manufacturer’s instructions (usually around 275°F/135°C for 15-30 minutes). Let them cool completely before handling.

Step 2: Preparing the Components

1. Sort your wood beads:
   Select wooden beads that complement your clay creations. Look for ones with a nice, visible grain pattern to contrast with the smooth cream beads.
2. Prep the shell charm:
   If your shell isn’t already attached to a bail, locate the small hole at the top. Open a gold jump ring using two pairs of pliers (twist, don’t pull apart) and thread it through the shell.
3. Cut the cord:
   Measure your wrist and add about 4 inches of extra length to your beading wire or elastic cord. This gives you plenty of room to finish the ends securely.

Step 3: Assembling the Bracelet

1. Start the pattern:
   Begin threading your beads. Start one side of the pattern: Thread a few cream clay beads, followed by a wooden bead.
2. Add the heishi accents:
   After a wooden bead, slide on a single turquoise heishi bead. This pop of color acts as a perfect separator.
3. Establish the rhythm:
   Continue the pattern: Wood bead, turquoise heishi, followed by a double round bead segment (one cream clay, one wood, or variations thereof). Refer to the image to copy the specific alternating rhythm shown.
4. Center the focal point:
   Once you have reached the halfway point of your desired length, slide on the shell charm via its jump ring. The shell should hang freely between two cream beads or a cream and a wood bead.
5. Complete the strand:
   Mirror the pattern on the other side of the shell until you reach the end of your wire. Check the fit around your wrist one last time before sealing it up.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Secure the first end:
   Thread a crimp bead onto the wire, followed by the loop of your lobster clasp. Loop the wire back through the crimp bead.
2. Crimp firmly:
   Use your crimping pliers to flatten or fold the crimp bead securely, locking the wire in place. Trim the excess short tail of wire.
3. Finish the second end:
   Repeat the crimping process on the other end, but this time attach the extension chain instead of a clasp. Make sure the beads are snug but not so tight the bracelet becomes stiff.
4. Final trim:
   Trim any remaining wire tails close to the crimp beads. You can tuck the tiny end into the adjacent bead hole for a cleaner finish.

Now slip on your bracelet and enjoy the breezy coastal vibes you’ve created

Capture a relaxed, seaside vibe with this classic heishi bead bracelet featuring a timeless palette of cream, red, and navy blue. The slight irregularities in the bead thickness and pattern give it an authentic, handmade charm perfect for everyday wear.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepping the Clay

1. Condition the Clay:
   Begin by kneading each color of polymer clay—cream, red, and navy blue—until they are soft and pliable. This prevents cracks during the rolling process.
2. Create Sheets:
   Roll out each color into a flat sheet. For the signature heishi look, aim for a thickness of about 1.5mm to 2mm. Using a pasta machine on a medium setting ensures uniform thickness.
3. Prevent Sticking:
   Place your rolled sheets onto a piece of parchment paper or a ceramic tile so they are easier to lift later.

Step 2: Cutting the Discs

1. Punch Circles:
   Using your small circle cutter, punch out numerous discs from each color sheet. You will need significantly more cream beads than colored ones, as they act as spacers and main blocks.
2. Release the Clay:
   If the clay gets stuck inside the cutter, gently push it out using the blunt end of a paintbrush, being careful not to deform the circle.
3. Making Holes:
   Use a needle tool to pierce the exact center of each disc. I prefer to do this while the clay is still raw to avoid drilling later, which can create dust.
4. Smoothing Edges:
   Gently tap the edges of each disc with your finger to smooth down any rough textures left by the cutter.

Step 3: Baking and Assembly

1. Arrange for Baking:
   String the raw beads onto a piece of wire or a knitting needle to keep them straight, or lay them flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake:
   Bake the beads according to the manufacturer’s instructions on your clay package (usually around 275°F or 130°C for 15-30 minutes). Let them cool completely.
3. Plan the Pattern:
   Lay out your beads on a bead board or towel to test the sequence. The pattern in the image relies on blocks of red (3-4 beads) and single dark blue beads separated by varying lengths of cream beads.
4. Create Variety:
   Don’t be afraid to mix it up; notice how some sections use a single red bead sandwiched between cream, while others are solid blocks. This irregularity adds character.
5. String the First Section:
   Cut a length of elastic cord about 10 inches long. Start threading your planned pattern, checking the length against your wrist as you go.
6. Check the Fit:
   Once all beads are strung, wrap the strand around your wrist. It should be snug but not tight, as the elastic will stretch slightly over time.
7. Tie the Knot:
   Tie a surgeon’s knot (a square knot with an extra loop) to secure the bracelet. Pull the elastic tight to ensure the knot holds firmly.
8. Secure the Ends:
   Dab a tiny drop of super glue or jewelry cement onto the knot. Let it dry for a few minutes before trimming the excess elastic.
9. Hide the Knot:
   If distinct hole sizes allow, gently tug the knot inside one of the adjacent beads to hide it from view.

Enjoy wearing your custom-designed bracelet stacked with others or as a standalone statement piece

Embrace a playful, carefree aesthetic with this ‘scramble’ style bracelet that throws color rules out the window. Featuring a vibrant, random assortment of polymer clay heishi beads accented by gold touches, this piece is like a little party for your wrist.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning the Chaos

1. Measure:
   Before you start stringing, wrap a piece of string or your elastic loosely around your wrist to find your desired size. Add about an inch to this measurement to account for the closure and the bulk of the beads.
2. Gather colors:
   Pour out small piles of all your heishi bead colors. The key to the ‘scramble’ look is variety, so make sure you have a mix of brights (pinks, yellows), cools (blues, teals), and neutrals (browns, whites) ready to grab.
3. Color sorting:
   While it looks random, I often like to quickly survey my bead piles to ensure I don’t accidentally string ten pink ones in a row—unless that’s the vibe you want.

Step 2: Stringing the Beads

1. Secure the end:
   Cut a length of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. Place a bead stopper or a piece of tape on one end to prevent your beautiful scramble from sliding off as you work.
2. Start the pattern:
   Begin threading the beads onto the cord. Aim for short blocks of solid color—usually 2 to 5 beads of the same hue—followed immediately by a different color block.
3. Vary the lengths:
   To keep the ‘confetti’ feel authentic, don’t make every color block the same length. Do three blue beads, then maybe five pink ones, then just two yellow ones.
4. Insert gold spacers:
   Every inch or so, slide on a small gold spacer bead instead of a clay bead. This adds a little flash of metallic shine that elevates the piece from simple kid-craft to trendy accessory.
5. Create the focal point:
   Once you have reached the halfway point of your desired length, slide on a decorative gold bead or a jump ring carrier (a bead with a loop) where the charm will eventually hang.
6. Complete the strand:
   Continue the random color blocking pattern until the bracelet reaches your measured length. Check the fit by wrapping it around your wrist; it should sit comfortably without pinching.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Prepare the crimps:
   Slide a gold crimp bead onto the end of the cord, followed by one half of your clasp assembly (either the jump ring or the lobster clasp).
2. Thread back:
   Take the tail end of the cord and thread it back through the crimp bead, creating a small loop that holds the clasp component securely.
3. Secure the crimp:
   Use your flat nose pliers to squash the crimp bead flat. Give the cord a gentle tug to ensure it won’t slip out.
4. Repeat on the other side:
   Repeat the crimping process on the other end of the bracelet with the other half of the clasp. Make sure there is no slack in the bead line, but don’t pull it so tight that the bracelet becomes stiff.
5. Trim excess:
   Snip off the excess cord tails close to the crimp beads. Be careful not to cut your main knot or the holding loop.

Step 4: Adding the Charm

1. Open the jump ring:
   Using two pairs of pliers, grip a gold jump ring on either side of the split. Twist one hand away from you and one toward you to open the ring sideways (never pull it apart like a mouth).
2. Attach the disc:
   Slide your small gold disc pendant onto the open jump ring.
3. Connect to bracelet:
   Hook the jump ring onto the center gold spacer or carrier bead you prepared earlier in the middle of the bracelet.
4. Close the ring:
   Use your pliers to twist the jump ring back into a closed position, ensuring the two ends meet perfectly flush so the charm doesn’t slip off.

Fasten the clasp and enjoy wearing your vibrant splash of color on your wrist

Embrace the effortless surfer-chic aesthetic with this refined heishi bead choker. The pattern creates a sophisticated rhythm by punctuating long stretches of creamy white discs with vibrant bursts of coral and gold.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Creating the Clay Canes

1. Condition the white clay:
   Start by thoroughly kneading your white polymer clay until it is soft and pliable. This prevents cracks later on.
2. Load the extruder:
   Roll the conditioned white clay into a snake that fits inside your extruder barrel. Attach a small circle die (approx. 4-5mm depending on desired bead width).
3. Extrude the white base:
   Crank the extruder to produce a long, uniform snake of white clay. Repeat this process until you have a significant amount, as white is the dominant color.
4. Prepare the accent colors:
   Repeat the conditioning and extruding process with your coral/peach clay. You will need much less of this color.
5. Create gold accents:
   Extrude a small amount of gold clay. Alternatively, you can use store-bought metal spacer beads if you prefer a true metallic shine, but I love the specific matte look of handmade clay spacers.

Step 2: Slicing the Heishi Beads

1. Chill the clay:
   Place your extruded clay snakes in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This firms up the clay and prevents it from squishing into ovals when you slice it.
2. Slice the white beads:
   Using a very sharp tissue blade, slice the white snake into thin, uniform discs. Aim for about 1-2mm thickness per bead.
3. Slice accent beads:
   Slice the coral and gold snakes. Try to keep these consistent with the white beads, though varying the thickness slightly can add organic charm.
4. Pierce holes:
   Use a needle tool or toothpick to gently poke a hole through the center of each disc. Doing this before baking keeps the edges cleaner.
5. Bake the batch:
   Arrange your beads on a baking sheet or tile. Bake according to your brand’s instructions (usually 275°F/135°C for 15-30 minutes).
6. Cool down:
   Allow the beads to cool completely before handling them. They are fragile while warm.

Step 3: Assembly

1. Design the pattern:
   Lay out your beads on a bead board. The pattern shown uses a long segment of roughly 20 white beads, followed by a color run: Gold – Coral – Coral – Coral – Gold.
2. Prepare the wire:
   Cut a length of beading wire about 4 inches longer than your desired finished length.
3. Start the strand:
   Thread a crimp bead and a wire guardian onto one end. Loop the wire back through the crimp bead and crush it flat with pliers to secure the end.
4. String the beads:
   Thread your beads following your laid-out pattern. Keep the tension consistent—not too tight, or the piece will be stiff.
5. Check the length:
   Periodically wrap the strand around your wrist or neck to verify fit, remembering to account for the clasp length.
6. Finish the second end:
   Once finished, thread on a crimp bead and the second wire guardian. Loop the wire back through the crimp and a few adjacent beads.
7. Secure the crimp:
   Pull the wire taut (but leave a tiny bit of wiggle room for flexibility) and flatten the final crimp bead. Trim excess wire.
8. Attach hardware:
   Use jump rings to attach your clasp to the wire guardian loops. Add an extender chain on one side if you want adjustable sizing.

Now you have a versatile piece of jewelry that adds a pop of color to any casual outfit

This sophisticated bracelet combines warm terracotta tones with a creamy center focal point for a design that balances boho vibes with polished style. The symmetrical layout of heishi discs creates a satisfying rhythm that looks beautifully high-end.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Planning the Pattern

1. Lay out the center:
   Begin by placing your large white focal bead exactly in the middle of your workspace or bead board channel.
2. Frame the focal bead:
   On either side of the center bead, place a large gold textured spacer bead to act as a frame, adding immediate elegance.
3. Begin the heishi sequence:
   Start the mirror pattern by placing two cream-colored heishi beads next to each gold spacer.
4. Build the first color block:
   Add a sequence of three to four terracotta heishi beads next. Keep checking that the left side mirrors the right side exactly.
5. Transition the colors:
   Follow the terracotta section with three camel or beige beads to soften the transition.
6. Add metallic accents:
   Insert a smaller gold textured spacer bead after your beige section. This breaks up the clay texture and adds sparkle.
7. Continue the mirror design:
   Repeat a pattern of cream, blush pink, and terracotta beads, separating distinct color groups with the smaller gold spacers periodically.

Step 2: Stringing

1. Prepare the wire:
   Cut a piece of beading wire about 10-12 inches long. This gives you plenty of extra room to work with the clasp.
2. Secure one end:
   To prevent beads from sliding off while you work, place a bead stopper or a piece of tape on one end of the wire.
3. Start stringing:
   I prefer to start stringing from one end of the design all the way to the other, rather than starting from the middle. Transfer your laid-out beads onto the wire carefully.
4. Add the focal point:
   When you reach the center, slide on the first large gold spacer, the large white bead, and the second gold spacer.
5. Finish the sequence:
   Continue adding the remaining beads until the full pattern is transferred. Double-check your length against your wrist before finishing.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Attach the first crimp:
   Slide a crimp bead onto one end of the wire, followed by a jump ring or the loop of your extension chain.
2. Loop and secure:
   Thread the wire back through the crimp bead to create a small loop. Use your crimping pliers to flatten or fold the crimp bead securely.
3. Trim excess wire:
   Cut the tail of the wire close to the crimp bead. If possible, tuck a tiny bit of the tail into the first few heishi beads for a cleaner look.
4. Repeat on the other side:
   Slide a crimp bead onto the open end of the wire, followed by the lobster clasp.
5. Tighten correctly:
   Thread the wire back through the crimp. Pull everything taut so there are no gaps between beads, but leave just a tiny bit of wiggle room so the bracelet stays flexible.
6. Final crimp:
   Secure the second crimp bead with your pliers and trim the remaining wire tail.

Now you have a stunning, symmetrical accessory ready to wear or gift to a friend

Achieve that breezy, beach-ready aesthetic with this set of coordinated polymer clay bracelets. This tutorial walks you through creating a harmonious stack featuring a chunky solid color strand, a mixed bead strand with gold accents, and a classic neutral pattern.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Planning and Measuring

1. Measure your wrist:
   Before cutting any cord, wrap a measuring tape loosely around your wrist. Add about half an inch to your measurement for a comfortable fit, or a full inch if you prefer a looser drape.
2. Cut the elastic:
   Cut three lengths of elastic cord. Give yourself plenty of extra slack—at least 4-5 inches more than your wrist measurement—to make tying the knots easier later on.
3. Pre-stretch the cord:
   Gently pull on each strand of elastic a few times. This pre-stretching prevents the bracelets from stretching out and becoming permanently loose after the first few wears.

Step 2: Bracelet 1: The Chunky Solid

1. Start the solid strand:
   Secure one end of your first cord with a piece of tape or a bead stopper. Begin threading your salmon-pink polymer clay heishi discs.
2. Check for consistency:
   As you string them, check that the beads are sitting flush against each other without gaps. This solid block of color anchors the stack.
3. Measure length:
   Stop adding beads when the strand wraps comfortably around your wrist with the ends touching. Test the fit on your arm before preparing to tie.

Step 3: Bracelet 2: The Textured Mixed Strand

1. Create the focal point:
   For the middle bracelet, we’ll start with the centerpiece. Thread three or four flat gold spacer rings right in the middle.
2. Add flanking beads:
   On either side of the gold rings, add a textured white stone bead followed by a natural wooden round bead to create symmetry.
3. Fill the rest:
   Complete the rest of the strand using smaller, neutral-toned heishi beads (like cream or light tan) and sporadic wooden spacers until you reach the desired length.

Step 4: Bracelet 3: The Striped Pattern

1. Establish a pattern:
   For the third strand, create a repeating pattern. Try alternating groups of 3-5 dark tan beads with single white beads or small gold accents.
2. Maintain rhythm:
   Consistency is key here. Keep counting your beads as you string them to ensure the striping remains uniform all the way around the wrist.
3. Verify sizing:
   Compare this strand against the first two chunky bracelets to ensure they are all roughly the same circumference.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Tie the square knot:
   Take the ends of your first bracelet. Cross right over left, then left over right to form a secure square knot.
2. Tighten securely:
   Pull all four strands (the two tails and the bracelet loop sides) firmly to tighten the knot without snapping the elastic.
3. Secure with glue:
   I like to add a tiny drop of jewelry glue or clear nail polish directly onto the knot. Let it dry completely before trimming.
4. Hide the knot:
   Once the glue is dry, trim the excess cord close to the knot. Gently tug the bracelet so the knot slides inside the hole of a neighboring bead to hide it.
5. Repeat for all strands:
   Follow the same knotting and gluing process for the remaining two bracelets to complete your set.

Slide on your new stack individually or all at once for an instant texture upgrade to your outfit

Create a cheerful, candy-colored accessory that combines the casual fun of Heishi beads with elegant gold and pearl accents. This stretch bracelet features a unique focal point where a cluster of charms dangles playfully from a central station.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Measure your wrist:
   Wrap a piece of string around your wrist to find a comfortable fit, then add about an inch to account for tying the knot later. Cut your stretch cord to this length plus a few extra inches for ease of handling.
2. Secure the end:
   Place a piece of tape or a bead stopper on one end of your stretch cord. This simple step prevents your vibrant beads from sliding right off while you work on your design.
3. Sort your palette:
   Lay out your Heishi beads. Group them by color so you can easily grab the next shade. Notice the pattern in the photo uses blocks of solid color mixed with multicolored striped sections.

Step 2: Stringing the Design

1. Start the sequence:
   Begin threading your beads onto the cord. Start with a small gold round spacer, followed by a gold jump ring. This jump ring will later hold the heart charm, acting as the ‘back’ or clasp area of the bracelet.
2. Create color blocks:
   String on about 10-12 beads of a single color, like the deep purple shown. Follow this with a small contrasting section, perhaps alternating teal and pink beads for a striped effect.
3. Vary the pattern:
   Continue adding sections of Heishi beads. I like to keep it random but balanced—mix larger solid blocks (like the pinks and oranges) with shorter, playful multi-colored segments. Aim to fill almost half of the bracelet length.
4. Check length:
   Wrap the beaded strand around your wrist again. You want to stop beading when you are exactly halfway around your wrist to prepare for the central focal point.

Step 3: Creating the Charm Cluster

1. Add first pearl:
   Thread on one of your large 8-10mm faux pearls. This marks the beginning of the focal section.
2. Add spacer beads:
   Slide on a textured gold ring spacer (rondelle). Follow this with a gold jump ring (which will hold the star), another textured spacer, and a second jump ring (for the pearl drop).
3. Finish the focal point:
   Add a third textured gold spacer, and finally, thread on the second large faux pearl to bracket the gold center.
4. Complete the beading:
   Go back to your Heishi beads. Continue stringing pattern blocks of color—pinks, yellows, and greens—until the bracelet reaches your desired full length.
5. Add final gold accent:
   Finish the strand with one last small round gold bead to mirror the beginning.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Attach the charms:
   Using pliers or your fingers, gently twist open the jump rings that are already on the bracelet. Attach the gold star to the first central jump ring and the pearl drop to the second.
2. Add the heart:
   Locate the jump ring you placed at the very start of the bracelet. Attach your textured gold heart charm here.
3. Tie the knot:
   Remove the tape/stopper. Bring the two ends of the cord together and tie a surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right, looping through twice on the first pass). Pull it tight.
4. Secure and trim:
   Add a tiny dab of jewelry glue to the knot to ensure it holds. Once dry, trim the excess elastic cord close to the knot. If possible, gently tug the knot inside one of the adjacent gold beads to hide it.

Slip on your colorful new bracelet for an instant pop of joy on your wrist

Brighten up your accessories collection with this cheerful polymer clay bracelet featuring a stunning array of pastel and vibrant Heishi beads. The mix of soft matte finishes with subtle glow-effect accents creates a playful yet elegant piece perfect for layering.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Creating the Heishi Beads

1. Condition the clay:
   Begin by softening each block of colored polymer clay in your hands until it is pliable. Don’t forget to condition a small amount of glow-in-the-dark clay to mix in later.
2. Roll out sheets:
   Using your rolling pin or pasta machine on a low setting, roll each color into a thin, even sheet. Aim for a thickness of about 1mm to 1.5mm per sheet for classic thin discs.
3. Create the glow mixture:
   Take small portions of your pastel colors and mix them 50/50 with the glow-in-the-dark clay. Knead them until fully blended to create subtle custom glow shades that match your palette.
4. Cut the discs:
   Place your clay sheets on a ceramic tile. Use your small circular cutter to punch out many small discs from each color. I like to cut a few extra of each shade just in case some break during the drilling process.
5. Pierce the beads:
   While the discs are still raw and flat on the tile, use your needle tool to carefully poke a hole directly in the center of each circle. Gently twist the tool as you push through to keep the shape round.
6. Bake the clay:
   Bake the beads while they are still on the ceramic tile according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 275°F/135°C for 15-30 minutes). Let them cool completely before handling.

Step 2: Assembly and Finishing

1. Prepare the wire:
   Cut a length of beading wire approximately 9-10 inches long. This gives you plenty of excess room to work with the clasps comfortably.
2. Start the clasp:
   Thread a crimp bead onto one end of the wire, followed by a wire guardian. Loop the wire through the guardian and back down into the crimp bead.
3. Secure the start:
   Attach the lobster clasp to the guardian loop. Use your flat nose pliers to smash the crimp bead flat, ensuring the wire is secure. Cover the smashed crimp with a gold crimp cover for a professional finish.
4. Plan your pattern:
   Lay out your beads on a design board or piece of felt. Arrange them in a loose color-blocking pattern, mixing the solid pastels with your custom ‘glow’ beads randomly for surprise pops of light.
5. String the beads:
   Begin threading the Heishi beads onto the wire. Pay attention to the thickness; grouping 2-3 beads of the same color together creates distinct bands of color.
6. Check the length:
   Periodically wrap the strand around your wrist to check the fit. Remember to leave about 0.5 inches of space for the final clasp assembly.
7. Finish the strand:
   Once you reach the desired length, thread on a crimp bead, a wire guardian, and then loop the wire back through the crimp bead.
8. Attach the jump ring:
   Hook the wire guardian onto a gold jump ring before pulling the wire tight. This jump ring will receive the lobster clasp.
9. Secure and trim:
   Pull the wire taut so there are no gaps between beads, but not so tight that the bracelet becomes stiff. Flatten the final crimp bead with pliers and trim the excess wire close to the bead.
10. Final touch:
    Place the final gold crimp cover over the exposed crimp bead and gently close it with pliers.

Enjoy wearing your vibrant, custom-fitted creation that looks just as good in the daylight as it does in the dark

This project captures the warmth of natural stone and pottery using custom-mixed polymer clay. By creating your own heishi-style disc beads, you achieve a sophisticated, organic look with varying tones of cream, beige, and terracotta that you won’t find in pre-packaged sets.

How-To Guide

Step 1: Creating the Color Palette

1. Condition the clay:
   Start by warming up your white, beige, and burnt sienna clay separately in your hands. Knead them until they are soft, pliable, and free of any cracks.
2. Mix solid tones:
   Create a gradient of solid colors. Keep some pure white, pure beige, and pure sienna. Mix a light cream by combining white with a tiny pinch of beige. Mix a soft peach by adding a speck of sienna to white.
3. Create the marble effect:
   To make the marbled beads shown in the focal point, take snakes of all three colors and twist them together. Fold the twisted log in half and twist again. Stop when you see beautiful swirls; don’t overmix or it will turn muddy.
4. Roll out sheets:
   Roll your various clay colors into sheets. Aim for a thickness of about 3mm—enough to have substance but thin enough to look like a disc. I find a pasta machine on a medium-thick setting works best for consistency.

Step 2: Cutting and Piercing

1. Cut the discs:
   Using your small round cutter, punch out circles from each color sheet. Place a piece of plastic wrap over the clay before cutting if you want domed edges, but for this crisp heishi look, cut directly into the clay.
2. Smooth the edges:
   Gently gently run your finger around the circumference of each disc to smooth down any drag marks left by the cutter.
3. Pierce the holes:
   Use your needle tool to poke a hole directly in the center of each disc. A twisting motion helps prevent the bead from distorting. Make sure the hole is wide enough for your elastic cord.
4. Arrange for baking:
   Place your raw beads on a ceramic tile or baking sheet. ensure they aren’t touching so they bake as individual components.
5. Bake:
   Bake the beads according to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific brand of clay (usually 275°F/135°C for 30 minutes). Let them cool completely before handling.

Step 3: Assembly and Finishing

1. Sand the beads:
   Once cool, wet sand the edges of the beads lightly with 400 grit sandpaper to remove any sharp spots, then follow with 800 grit for a smooth limestone-like finish.
2. Design your pattern:
   Lay your beads out on a mat. Create a random yet balanced pattern by alternating the solid creams, beiges, and rust tones with your special marbled focal beads.
3. String the beads:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10 inches long. Pre-stretch the cord by pulling it firmly a few times; this prevents the bracelet from stretching out later.
4. Thread the pattern:
   String the beads onto the cord, following the layout you designed. Check the length against your wrist occasionally until you reach the desired fit.
5. Tie the knot:
   Tie a surgeon’s knot (right over left, left over right, looping through twice on the second pass). Pull it tight.
6. Secure the join:
   Apply a tiny dot of gel super glue to the knot. Let it dry for a few seconds before trimming off the excess cord ends.

Now you have a custom accessory that brings a warm, natural aesthetic to any outfit

Embrace the beauty of imperfection with this stunning heishi bead bracelet featuring an asymmetrical pattern of earthy tones. By combining clusters of warm terracotta, soft peach, and cream with striking gold accents, you create a sophisticated accessory that feels both modern and organic.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Creating the Clay Heishi Beads

1. Condition the Clay:
   Begin by thoroughly conditioning your polymer clay colors separately. Take the terracotta, peach, and white clay and knead them until they are soft and pliable, ensuring there are no air bubbles.
2. Roll the Sheets:
   Using a rolling pin or a pasta machine on a medium-thick setting (about 2-3mm), roll out sheets of each color. Aim for a consistent thickness across all colors so your finished beads align smoothly.
3. Cut the Discs:
   Use your small circle cutter to punch out numerous discs from each color sheet. For the bracelet shown, you’ll need roughly 15-20 discs of each color, but cutting extras is always a smart move.
4. Pierce the Holes:
   Carefully pierce the center of each clay disc with a needle tool or bead piercing pin. I find that twisting the tool slightly as you push through helps keep the hole clean without distorting the round shape.
5. String for Baking (Optional):
   If you wish to keep the holes perfectly round, you can thread the raw clay discs onto a bead baking rack or a piece of wire suspended over a foil tray.
6. Bake the Beads:
   Arrange your beads on a parchment-lined baking tray (if not using a rack). Bake according to your brand of polymer clay instructions—typically around 275°F (130°C) for 15-20 minutes. Let them cool completely before handling.

Step 2: Designing the Asymmetry

1. Sort Your Materials:
   Gather your cooled clay beads and your gold spacer beads. Lay them out on a bead board or a soft towel to prevent them from rolling away.
2. Plan Section One: The Terracotta Cluster:
   Start by stacking a group of about 6-8 terracotta beads together. This creates a solid block of deep color that anchors the design.
3. Add a Texture Break:
   Place a single gold spacer bead, followed by one or two wooden or textured beige beads if you have them, then another gold spacer. This breaks up the clay blocks.
4. Create the Peach Gradient:
   Arrange a small stack of the peach/blush clay beads. Instead of a solid block, intersperse them with single white discs to create a softer, blended transition.
5. Build the White Section:
   Group a larger segment of the white or cream beads together. This lighter section creates ‘negative space’ that makes the darker colors pop.
6. Repeat with Variation:
   Repeat the previous patterns but change the counts slightly—maybe use only 3 terracotta beads this time, followed by a gold bead, then a mix of peach and white. The goal is intended irregularity.
7. Check the Length:
   Wrap your laid-out design around your wrist to check the fit. Add or remove small filler sections of white or gold beads until the length is comfortable.

Step 3: Assembly and Finishing

1. Prepare the Cord:
   Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10-12 inches long. Pre-stretch the cord significantly by pulling it firmly several times; this prevents the bracelet from stretching out later.
2. String the Beads:
   Thread your designed pattern onto the elastic cord. Using a bold gold bead as your starting and ending point can often make hiding the knot easier.
3. The Surgeon’s Knot:
   Tie the ends of the elastic together using a surgeon’s knot (loop the thread through twice on the first pass of the knot) and pull it very tight.
4. Secure with Glue:
   Place a tiny dot of super glue or jewelry cement directly onto the knot. Let it dry for a distinct moment before trimming any excess cord.
5. Hide the Knot:
   Gently tuck the knotted section inside the hole of the nearest large bead (preferably one of the gold ones) to conceal it for a professional finish.

Slip on your new bracelet and enjoy the customized, artisanal look you’ve created by hand