ECT TV Episode 38: Ombre Bead Dangle Necklace
In today's episode learn how to make this fun Ombre Bead Dangle Necklace!Video Episode:In the episode you'll learn how to make an ombre effect, open jump rings and make a bead dangle!Tutorial:
Tools and Materials:
- Beads*
- Headpins ** for each bead for the necklace. I used 2 inch headpins that I purchased.
- 7 mm jump rings *** 3 for each bead dangle (you'll use 1 for the bead dangle and 2 in between each bead dangle.
- Chain
- Clasp (any clasp you like. I used a lobster clasp with a few jump rings on the other side with an extra bead dangle)
- Round nose pliers
- Chain nose pliers
- Bent nose pliers (or another pair of pliers that are flat)
- Wire Cutters
* BeadsYou can use any beads you like in any amount you like. I used a variety of shapes and sizes and did an ombre technique. You can use all the same color beads or anything you like.I used 28 beads, you may want more or less.**HeadpinsI used pre-made headpins, but this would look great with headpins you make yourself, too. Here are some tutorials if you want to make your own:Spiral and Knotted HeadpinsInfinity Headpin*** Jump ringsMake sure that your jump rings will slide over your chain and have room to move around a little because that's the fun part of this necklace. We won't be opening the jump rings to attach to the chain, but instead they'll just slide over it.Step #1Arrange your beads on a beading tray if you like. If you're creating an ombre necklace, start in the middle with the darkest colors and work your way out each way keeping it symmetrical as far as color is concerned. I didn't use exactly the same shapes of beads on each side, but I did use the same colors.Step #2
Make each of the beads into bead dangles.I made sure to keep everything in order on my beading tray as I did this.For help on how to make a bead dangle, click here. (Or watch the video above.)Step #3
Add a jump ring to each bead dangle. If you need help opening jump rings, click here.Step #4Also make sure that the other jump rings you'll be using in this project are closed properly. When you purchase them they're not always closed nicely.Step #5Cut your chain to the length you'd like. I like to just measure around my neck and cut.Step #6
Add one end of a clasp to one end of the chain. Do not add the other side yet.Step #7
Slide a bead dangle onto the necklace by threading the chain through the jump ring. If you are creating a special design, make sure to start at one end.Step #8
Add two jump rings.Step #9
Continue adding a bead dangle then 2 jump rings until all the bead dangles are added.I used 28 bead dangles. You may want to use more or less for your necklace.Step #10
Add the other end of your clasp. If you're using a lobster clasp you may want to add a few jump rings and a bead dangle to the end.
Ideas to Customize this Necklace:
- Think of any bead pattern you would like. Try all exactly the same bead, try mixing every other bead or do a rainbow.
- Use different metals.
- Mix and match metals. Add in some copper or brass jump rings along with the silver.
- Use just a few beads or use many more beads.
- Add even more jump rings in between the bead dangles.
What else can you think of?I love this necklace and I've already gotten compliments on it!Join my newsletter and get these episodes in your inbox each time there's a new one! Plus you get a PDF of the project to download. Just fill in the form below (you'll also automatically get my FREE 14 day Intro to Jewelry Making eCourse!)