How to Create Stretchy Beaded Bracelets with Elastic Cord?

Crafting stretchy beaded bracelets is an enjoyable and popular activity. These bracelets are quick and simple to make, making them an ideal project for both kids and adults.

In this tutorial, you will find a step-by-step guide to making a stretchy seed bead bracelet, ensuring you’ll have a long-lasting piece of jewelry. If you’re interested in learning more about DIY bracelets, keep reading.

Making Stretch Bracelets

Creating beaded bracelets is a straightforward project, but having the right supplies and tools can make it even easier. Here are the materials you’ll need for a successful project:

Stretch Bracelet Supplies

Elastic beading cord
Beads (I’m using seed beads, but plastic pony beads work too)
Beading tray
Bead stopper (or a binder clip/small piece of tape)
Large eye beading needle (or a small length of beading wire folded in half)
Jewelry glue (such as G-S Hypo Cement)
Crimp bead covers (optional, explained below)

Best Stretch Cord for Bracelets

Stretchy bracelets are made by stringing beads onto an elastic cord, which stretches like a rubber band. Here are some types of elastic bead cord:

Stretch cord: A single-strand cord with a round cross-section, available in various sizes and colors (clear and black are popular). Stretch Magic is a well-known brand.
Stretch floss/fiber: A strong, fibrous flat cord that is less likely to stretch out over time and easier to knot, but can fray as it’s made from multiple strands.
Fabric-covered elastic cord: Comes in many colors and sizes, usually thicker, requiring large-hole beads.

I recommend Stretch Magic Cord for its strength, durability, and availability in craft stores.

Choosing the Right Size Stretch Cord

Elastic cord comes in different thicknesses. Thicker cords (like 1mm) are suitable for larger beads, while thinner cords (like 0.5mm) work for smaller beads.

How to Make Stretch Bead Bracelets

Follow these steps to create your beaded bracelets:

1. 1. Prepare Your Materials: Gather beads, elastic cord, scissors, and glue.
  2. Measure Your Wrist: Measure your wrist for the bracelet size. A small adult wrist is 7″, medium is 8″, and large is 9″. Remember, larger beads make the bracelet feel tighter.
  3. Cut the Elastic to Length: Use a double strand of elastic for extra strength. Cut a length of cord that’s twice your wrist measurement plus 12 inches.
  4. Pre-Stretch the Elastic Cord: Stretch out sections of the cord to prevent future stretching.
  5. Secure the Cord End: Fold the cord in half for a doubled length. Use a bead stopper or binder clip on the ends to prevent beads from slipping off.
  6. Lay Out Your Beads: Arrange beads in order before stringing. A beading tray helps keep beads organized.
  7. String the Beads onto the Cord: String beads by hand or use a needle for smaller holes. Start with the bead with the largest hole.
  8. Tie a Knot to Secure the Cord: Remove the stopper and tie a surgeon’s knot with the cord ends. A surgeon’s knot involves looping the ends over twice for added durability.
  9. Secure the Knot with Glue: Apply a small dab of flexible, fast-drying glue like G-S Hypo Cement to the knot.
  10. Hide the Knot: Slide the knot into a bead with a large hole or use a crimp cover. Trim excess cord once the glue dries.

Tips for Durable Stretch Bracelets

Use high-quality stretch cord like Stretch Magic or Opelon Stretch Fiber.
Double the elastic if bead holes allow.
Tie a surgeon’s knot and secure with glue.
Wait 24 hours for the glue to cure before wearing the bracelet.
Roll bracelets onto your wrist to avoid overstretching.

By following these steps and tips, you can create beautiful, durable stretchy beaded bracelets. Enjoy the crafting process and the wonderful jewelry you’ll make!