Sundance-Inspired Kisses and Hugs Necklace Tutorial

If you remember back to my Kisses and Hugs-inspired earring tutorial way back in July, I promised that I would share a tutorial for a matching necklace.  Well...I've finally gotten round to putting the promised tutorial together!  So, without further ado, let me show you how to make your very own Sundance-inspired Kisses and Hugs necklace to match those earrings you made.

Supplies:

- one potato-shaped freshwater pearl, approx 8mm

- 4 x dark red Czech glass rondelles, 4mm

- 6 x medium red Czech glass rondelles, 4mm

- white nylon beading thread (Nymo's nylon thread or Beadsmith's beadstring are both good)

- 40cm delicate gold chain (I used a figaro chain from my stash, but use whatever you have or like)

- gold-plated necklace extender

- lobster claw clasp

- 5mm gold-plated jump ring

- beading needle

- liquid superglue or fabric glue

Method:

 

1. Line up your beads on a beading tray in the following order: 3 x medium red rondelles, 2 x dark red rondelles, freshwater pearl, 2 x dark red rondelles, 3 x medium red rondelles.

2. Thread a beading needle with the beading nylon.  Thread your beads onto the nylon in the order you set out in step 1.

3. Divide your chain into two equal lengths.  Tie the beading thread onto the end link of one chain, making sure to tie a secure double or triple knot.  Snip off any spare thread and dab with a small drop of superglue or fabric glue to secure the thread onto the chain.

4. Push the beads up to the knot you just created, making sure not to leave a gap.  Repeat step 3 with the other end of the beading thread.  Make sure to tie the knot as close to the beads and chain, ensuring that there are no gaps between your beads (but don't make it so tight that the bead alignment warps).

5. Attach the necklace extender to one end of your chain and bead combination.  Then, using the jump ring, attach the clasp to the free end of the chain.  And there you have it, an elegant, but different way to wear freshwater pearls!

As with the Kisses and Hugs earrings, you can use different coloured beads or a different finish of chain to create a necklace which suits your look and wardrobe.  Don't forget to share if you make one of these necklaces for yourself!

I'm joining in tutorial Tuesday fun here.