DIY Jewelry Set – Seed Beads, Letter Beads, Elastic & Tools

An elastic bracelet is one of the easiest pieces of jewelry to make – but it's the knot that determines whether it holds. With these steps, it will stay in place, even when the bracelet is pulled over your hand again and again.

How to do it

1. Stretch the elastic a few times before threading the beads on – that way it won't give afterwards.
2. Put a bead stopper on the end so the beads don't slide off while you work.
3. Tie a surgeon's knot: one pass with two loops, and then an ordinary pass on top. Pull it good and tight, and feel free to tie one more knot.
4. Trim the ends a couple of millimeters from the knot, and hide the knot inside a bead with a large hole or under a crimp cover.

Tip: If you want an extra strong knot, add a small dab of jewelry glue to the knot and let it dry completely before trimming the ends.

Choose the right elastic

For heavier beads such as gemstones and glass beads, a stronger elastic from 0.8 mm is a good choice. For small beads such as seed beads, you should use a thin elastic so it can pass through the small holes.

If you want extra strength, we have Super Strong Elastic Cord from as thin as 0.5 mm up to 1.5 mm – and the internationally known Opelon elastic cord, which is also known for its extra durability, from 0.4 mm.

In short: Stretch the elastic and tie a surgeon's knot – and your bracelet will hold. With a dab of glue on the knot, it stays completely secure.