Easy Crystal Bracelet Tutorial

Left:  Blue crystals, rows of three 6 mm alternated colors.
Right:  rows of three 4 mm, with four rows of 4-6-4 mm crystals in the middle.

Skinny bracelet: Single crystal rows (8mm).

One of the first types of bracelets I learned to make is this simple crystal bracelet.  If you love sparkle and want something that works up quickly and easily, this is a great way to practice beading while giving yourself or a loved one a gorgeous gift.

You don't have to use crystals. In fact, any beads you like will do.  I just happen to love the sparkle of Swarovski crystals.



What you'll need:

• Wire Cutters
• Round Nose Pliers
• Crimper

• 11/0 seed beads (about 220 of them, or one small package)--I used size 11 cylinder beads instead.
• Crystals (about 60 6 mm or so for a wider bracelet or 20 8 mm for a smaller one)
• A clasp (I usually use a two-strand clasp)
• Beading wire
• 4 crimp beads

1.  Start by affixing your two strands of wire to the clasp with crimp beads.  Basically, you insert the wires into the clasp holes.  String on a crimp bead for each strand.  Fold the tail of the wires with a little excess (about a centimeter or so) and tuck them into their respective crimp beads.  Use your crimpers to squeeze the crimp bead closed.

2.  Next, string 6 seed beads onto each wire.

3.  Pick up your crystal(s) with one wire.  Then go through the crystal(s) in the opposite direction (criss-crossed) with the other wire.  Pull snug, but not too tight.




















4.  Repeat until you have the desired length (usually this will be 20 rows of crystals with the 6 seed bead columns on either end).  Avoid help from eager children and mischievous cats.

5.  When you have your desired length, add the crimp beads and insert the wires into the clasp.

6.  Trim the wires, slip them from the back of the clasp into the crimp bead and several of the seed beads.  Crimp and then you're done!

Tips:  
Be careful about the length you use when crimping around the clasp.  Too tight and it will be too stiff.  Too loose and it won't look right.

As you work, pause after each row to make sure your tension is adequate (not too tight, not too loose).

Always cut a longer strand of wire than you think you need.  It's better to have extra than to run out!