Beading may just be one of the most relaxing (and beautiful) pastimes there is. The simplicity of slipping beads onto thread, creating patterns, and transforming what was once nothing into something beautiful is kind of magical. Beads also have a way of adding instant glamour to anything and everything. From a choker that looks seriously heirloom-worthy to a quirky sun-catcher made with pony beads, we've rounded up a few of our favorite project ideas. Bead dreams are made of these.
Photo via Bead Diagrams
Things You'll Need
- 11/0 seed beads
- Beading thread
- Clasp
This opulent looking necklace may look extravagant, but creating it is actually very inexpensive and simple. This free pattern will show you how to weave this vintage-inspired necklace with ease. We love this showstopping piece that will make even the plainest ensemble striking. Psst. It would also make a seriously impressive (and most cherished) gift.
Photo via The Artful Parent
2. Multi-Colour Beaded Sun Catcher
Things You'll Need
- Plastic pony beads
- Muffin and/or cake pans
This is a very fun and easy craft to do at home with the kids. All one needs is an assortment of coloured pony beads (any plastic beads will do) and pans to melt them down in. Simply arrange the beads into whichever designs you like in the pans and bake in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. They are simple to make, oh-so-pretty and make excellent gifts.
Photo via Glam Radar
Things You'll Need
- Needle
- Thread
- Beads of your choice
- Plain cardigan
We've all had those days where we open up our closets and feel completely indifferent to the items we once loved. One easy way to breathe new life into an old garment is to embellish it with a cluster of beads. Sew a cluster of pearl beads in a variety of sizes onto a plain sweater or cardigan for an elegant look or mix it up with an assortment of mismatched beads for a more eclectic feel. Easy peasy.
Photo via Instructables
Things You'll Need
- Bicone Crystal Beads
- Plastic Thread
- Lining fabric
- Needle
- Thread
A glittering beaded clutch is a great way to add instant intrigue to a look. Instead of splurging on an expensive designer bag, recreate the same look for next to nothing with a little elbow grease, some lining fabric, and crystal beads. This simple DIY takes mere minutes to make and trust us, you'll want to make one in every colour.
Photo via Rise and Shine
Things You'll Need
- Beads of your choice (varying colours, textures, and sizes will give this style a charming eclectic vibe)
- Spacers (to stabilize this multi-stranded piece)
- Crimps (to reinforce the knot at the clasp/end of the bracelet)
- Needle nosed pliers
- Beading thread
Remember when you were a kid and would weave daisy chains during the spring and summertime? This DIY is kind of the grown-up version of that and is a fun and nostalgic project that results in a beautifully eclectic piece. It's also a great way to use up any leftover, miscellaneous beads that you may have lying around (the more random the beads that you use are, the cuter the final bracelet is) Keep the spirit of spring with you all year long with this floral stunner.
Which of these do you most want to try? Let us know in the comments!
