Why We Love This Tutorial:
We couldn’t resist using one of the new Amethyst cluster (un-cut nugget) beads. Each one is just so unique and special. We’ve teamed it up with some beautiful irregular Fluorite beads, and a little dangle section near the bolt clasp.
Beads and Materials You’ll Need:
- 13x Irregular Gemstone Tube Beads (we’ve used these Fluorite tube beads)
- 1x Large Nugget Gemstone Bead (we’ve used these Amethyst un-cut nuggets)
- 10x Mixed Beads for dangles (we’ve used 3mm faceted Fluorite beads, Amethyst hearts, 4mm white jade beads. However, any small beads (3mm to 8mm) that match the colours will work just fine!).
- Size 11/0 Silver Seed Beads
- 1x 15mm Bolt Clasp
- 2x Clamshells
- 10x Headpins (we’ve used these 25mm headpins)
- 1x 6mm Jump Ring
- Tigertail
- 2x Crimps
Tools You’ll Need:
- Round Nose Pliers (for making loops)
- Flush Cutters (for cutting headpins to size)
- Scissors (for cutting tigertail)
- Flat nose pliers (for squashing crimps)
Method:
- Make all of your dangles first. We have made 10 dangles, and have used the wrapped loop method. This method is more secure than a simple loop. (For step-by-step instructions and photos on making wrapped loops, please check out this tutorial – Bronzite & Chrysocolla Chain Link Necklace [will open in a new window/tab]).
- This bracelet is simply strung on tigertail, and uses clamshells+ crimps to secure the ends. Take your tigertail, thread on the clamshell followed by the crimp. Squash the crimp with your flat nose pliers, then close the clamshell gently around the crimp. Use the loop on your clamshell to attach your clasp.
- Thread on your beads. We have used 13 Fluorite tube beads, and our bracelet is 22cm long (including the clasp). Between each Fluorite bead, we have used a size 11/0 silver bead.
- Once you have threaded on your tubes, finish with one Amethyst rough nugget bead. Then attach your second clamshell + crimp.
- Take a 6mm jump ring, and attach to the clamshell. Onto this 6mm jump ring you’ll also need to attach all of your dangles and attach the other side of the toggle clasp. It is a little fiddly getting all the dangles on. Close the jump ring with your flat nose pliers, and you’re finished!
