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Supplies

• Beads (including letter beads, spacer beads, and clay beads)

• Elastic string (I love 0.5mm Stretch Magic String)

• Bead holder or binder clip

• Small sewing scissors (regular household scissors work, too)

• Ruler

• Optional: Jewelry glue (I love Hypo Cement)

• Optional: Dark material, such as black cardstock, for beading surface

Steps

Organizing Your Beads

If you're using alphabet beads, it's best to purchase them pre-organized in compartments. This will save you the hassle of searching for specific letters in a jumbled assortment. Additionally, it's helpful to plan out your pattern or design before starting to ensure you’re thrilled with the final result. Peruse this Pinterest board for inspiration!

Measuring and Preparing the String

To begin, place a dark material on your work surface so it’s easier to see the clear elastic string. Unspool your elastic string and grab a ruler. Refer to a handy chart to determine the number of inches you'll need for the bracelet size you want. For example, an adult size small typically requires approximately seven inches of string.

Important: Give yourself enough slack to work with! Leave about two inches on either side of your string when you cut it. This extra slack allows for easier tying at the end.

Pre-Stretching the Elastic

Before beading, it's crucial to pre-stretch your elastic string. This step ensures that your bracelet won't become saggy over time. To do this, evenly stretch the string inch by inch, pulling it tight. 

Securing the String

Next, grab a bead holder or binder clip and open it. Take one end of the string and place it into one of the rungs or clasps of whichever holder option you’re using. This will keep the beads in place as you string them.

Stringing the Beads

Now it's time to start stringing the beads onto the bracelet. I like to begin with colorful clay beads, which I thread onto the elastic string until I’ve reached about a quarter of the way down the string.

Tip: If you're having trouble picking up the tiny clay beads, you can moisten the pad of your finger tip and press directly over top of the bead.

Adding Spacer Beads and Letter Beads

To add some variety and design to your bracelet, incorporate spacer beads and letter beads. Choose a spacer bead, and string it onto the bracelet next to your clay beads. Then, string the letter beads to spell out your desired word or phrase.

Important: Start with the final letter and work your way backwards to ensure the correct orientation when the bracelet is worn.

Creating Symmetry

For a balanced design, add another spacer bead on the other side of the completed word or phrase. Then, thread more colorful clay beads onto the elastic string until you have about a thumb’s length of unbeaded string left.

Tying the Bracelet

Now it's time to tie the bracelet and secure it. Many beaders use what’s known as the surgeon’s knot—personally, however, I find it tricky! Here’s my preferred, easier method: 

1. Start by crossing the left end of the string over the right end.

2. Loop the left end underneath the right end.

3. Create a “normal knot” and tighten.

4. With the excess string, loop both ends around your fingers, and tie as if you’re tying a balloon.

5. Tighten the knot as much as possible and hold it tightly.

Trimming Excess String

Once the knot is secure, trim the excess string, up to the knot, using scissors. Tuck the knot beneath the beads to create a clean finish.

Optional: Adding Glue for Extra Security

If you want to ensure extra security for your bracelet, you can use jewelry glue with a fine point nozzle. Apply a small amount of glue directly to the knot and let it rest for about an hour.

And there you have it! Your elastic stretch cord friendship bracelet is complete!

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide has inspired you to start making your own elastic stretch cord friendship bracelets. It's a simple yet fulfilling project that anyone can enjoy. So gather your materials, set up your crafting space, and let your creativity flow. Happy beading!

DIY Beaded Bracelet Tips for Beginners

• Plan Your Design: Always plan your bead pattern and colors before you start. This helps in achieving a cohesive look.

• Pre-stretch the Elastic: Don't skip this step! It prevents your bracelet from becoming loose and saggy after a few wears.

• Secure Knotting: Practice the knotting technique I shared to ensure your bracelets are secure and durable.