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Fancy friendship bracelets combine classic woven knots with jewels or chain for a personalized accessory to wear or share. These two designs use embroidery floss or thin cord and can be adapted with different colors and embellishments. Gather your materials before starting, and arrange the small jewelry components on a flat surface so they are easy to reach.
Woven Fancy Friendship Bracelets with Jewels
In this design, four strands create the woven body, while a strand of jewels is incorporated as you work. A clipboard can help keep the cords steady, but it is optional; tape can also hold the center strands in place on a suitable work surface.
Supplies
- Embroidery floss or thin cord
- Jewels on a strand
- Jewelry chain, if desired for finishing
- Clipboard and washi tape or masking tape (optional)
- Jump rings
- Clasps
How to make the woven bracelet
- Tie a knot near the top of four pieces of string. Secure the knot under a clipboard, then tape the two middle strings down so they stay positioned as you weave.
- Bring the left outer string over the two middle strings. Pass the right outer string underneath the middle strings.
- Pull the tail of the upper string through to the right, then pull the tail of the lower string through to the left. Tighten the strands to form a knot.
- For the next knot, reverse the starting pattern: take the left string under the middle strings and the right string over them. Continue alternating these two knotting patterns to create an even braid.
- When you reach the jewel strand, wrap the outer strings around the jewels as you continue weaving. Keep the embellishments aligned and avoid pulling so tightly that the bracelet twists.
- After the jewels are incorporated, resume the alternating knots until the woven section reaches the desired length. Finish with knots, slip knots, or clasps.
Check the bracelet’s fit before securing the ends. If using a clasp, jump rings can connect it to the finished cords or chain.
Chain and Jewel Friendship Bracelet
A chain-link base offers a different look and provides openings for threading cord and jewels. Work along the chain in a consistent direction, and check the spacing as you go to keep the design balanced.
Supplies
- Chain link
- Embroidery floss or thin cord
- Strand of jewels
- Pliers and wire cutters (optional)
- Jump rings and a clasp
How to make the chain bracelet
- Tape the end of the cord to make threading easier. Pass it through the chain links until the gold is covered.
- Thread the cord through the links a second time, spacing the passes more sparsely and adding the jewel strand as you work.
- Tie off the cord when the design is complete. Apply fray check or clear glue to the end if needed, following the product instructions.
- Attach jump rings and a clasp to the ends. Use pliers carefully when opening or closing the rings, and take care around cut wire if wire cutters are used.
Both styles can be customized by changing the cord colors, jewel placement, or finishing method. Store unused beads and small findings safely, especially when crafting around children. Have fun trading! — Katie
