About this class

Learn to make a simple, beautiful beaded stretch bracelet using natural stone and wooden beads. Perfect for beginners, this class walks you through every step — from gathering materials to wearing your finished piece. No special tools required, just cord, beads, and a pair of scissors.

What you'll learn

How to choose and prepare elastic cord, string beads in a balanced pattern, tie a secure surgeon's knot that won't slip, and finish a professional-looking stretch bracelet you can wear or gift.

Materials you'll need

Clear elastic beading cord (0.5mm or 1mm), approximately 20–25 natural stone or wooden beads (6–8mm), small sharp scissors, a shallow dish to hold beads, and a measuring tape or ruler.

Step-by-step tutorial

1

Gather Your Materials

Lay out your elastic beading cord, a small bowl of natural stone or wooden beads (6–8mm), and a pair of small sharp scissors. A shallow dish keeps beads from rolling away. Work on a soft linen or cloth surface so beads stay put.

2

Measure and Cut the Cord

Wrap the elastic cord loosely around your wrist to estimate length, then add about 4 extra inches for tying. Cut the cord cleanly with scissors — a clean cut prevents fraying and makes threading easier.

3

String the Beads

Hold the cord by the extra length and thread beads one at a time, sliding them down gently. Arrange colors and sizes in whatever pattern feels right — there's no wrong way. Stop when the strand wraps comfortably around your wrist without stretching.

4

Tie a Surgeon's Knot

Bring both ends of the cord together. Tie an overhand knot, then pass the ends through a second time for a surgeon's knot. Pull gently to snug the beads, then tie one more overhand knot for security. The double knot keeps the bracelet from coming undone.

5

Finish and Wear

Trim the cord ends to about 1/4 inch, then tuck the knot inside the nearest bead to hide it. Give the bracelet a gentle stretch to settle the beads against the knot. Your bracelet is ready to wear or gift.