This seed bead chain necklace is a super simple and low cost way to create a statement piece of jewellery! And all you need are some large seed beads and thread.
Seed beads are one of those craft items that people often own, but never know what to do with! But seed beads are cheap, come in many different sizes and colours and so are a brilliant way to create some bold jewellery. This design is a variation on a bracelet that I teach as a workshop, but I fancied a necklace version!
You will need:
-Size 3 or 5 seed beads
-S-lon thread
-Scissors
How to:
1.Cut at least 2 metres of s-lon or similar and thread on 19 size 5 seed beads in the middle of the cord so you have two long ends. NB This will make a necklace that is 60cm /24″ long. You might want to measure your head before beginning to check this is enough; each beaded ‘link’ is approx 3cm long, so to increase the overall length you will need 6cm more thread per link you wish to add.
2.Take one more seed bead and thread one of the ends through left to right and the other end right to left so they crossover in the bead.
3.Pull the thread tight and they to even them out so both are equally long. Thread 9 seed beads onto each of the threads
4.Add another single crossover bead
5.Repeat the pattern of adding 9 single size 5 beads on each thread, then a single ‘crossover’ bead. You can keep using the same colour of beads or you can change and create a pattern. After 7 links of the mint beads I changed to a heamatite colour for 3 links. These were actually a larger size 3 seed bead, so to keep the same size links (3 cm by 2cm) I only added 7 beads on each side.
6.Keep going until you have 22 links and that it fits over your head, Add more links if you needs them. Then on the last link, rather than add a new crossover bead, use the middle bead from the very first link you created instead. This joins the necklace together.
7.Pull the threads tight and knot each thread off. Take the excess thread through a few beads before cutting off the tail.
8.You shouldn’t be able to see the join and the necklace can slip on over your head!
If you have a go at making your own seed bead chain necklace, or have any questions feel free to comment below or message me on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook! Happy Making!
Love this, there are all kinds of possibilities for patterns. I’m going to get my seed beads out and see what I can come up with. Thank you so much for this, Emma.
So glad you like it! This design can be used with pretty much any seed beads, I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Emma
I am thinking I am going to make these smaller and link two or three side by side together and make a bracelet. Ideas are popping for the circles!
Thanks for the written instructions with pictures. Videos drive me crazy. I have them slowed down as much as possible with close caption on.
What size thread do you Use? I’ve only been able to string beads. This is the first project that I’ve seen that I think I can do. You took wonderful pictures on how to do this project!
Hi Karen! This is a really great project to move on to from basic stringing. I have used s-lon (sometimes called superlon tex 210) which is approx 0.5mm thick. Have fun! Emma.
I did the exact pattern that you suggested and it was to short to fit over my head. I think its best as a child’s necklace unless you have a really small head. I love the pattern though
Hi Cheri, I’m glad that you like the pattern! I have updated the instructions slightly, to make the finished length and instructions on how to lengthen it clearer- I know I have small head (seriously, I have to buy kids hats!) but thought I had made it long enough for most people, clearly not! Thanks for your feedback! Emma
Do you have a pattern that uses a clasp? With a claspects you can make a chocker.
Hi Romonia!What a great idea to make a choker necklace! To add a clasp, use 2 separate threads and knot them together, then take a look at my Statement Summer Necklace if you follow steps 11 and 12 it show you how to attach a necklace end (sometimes called a callotte) then skip step 1 and start this pattern from step 2. Once the choker is the length you need, finish with another necklace end and knot, then add your clasp with a jump ring. Emma
just wondering could this be done with glass pearls with a tiny seed bead in between?
also using a clasp at the end.
You can absolutely use other types of beads and glass pearls with tiny seed beads would look lovely!! To add a clasp, I would recommend adding necklace ends https://makeandfable.com/2019/07/how-to-use-necklace-ends-to-finish-jewellery/. Emma
thank you so much Emma, i will give it a try and if it turns out ok may send you pic
linda
You can absolutely use other types of beads and glass pearls with tiny seed beads would look lovely!! To add a clasp, I would recommend adding necklace ends https://makeandfable.com/2019/07/how-to-use-necklace-ends-to-finish-jewellery/. Emma