Jewelry Making

DIY Jewelry, Beads And Patterns

Madeby Sam Giveaway

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MadeBy Sam jewelry is well known for their bridal selection which features
beautiful jewelery for the bride and bridesmaids. One of the favorite things
about their shop is that they do custom orders and special designs for
customers.

All of their jewelry pieces are handmade with sterling silver or 14k gold filled with the finest hand selected gemstones and unique metal components.

SUMMER SALE UP TO 30 PERCENT OFF

WIN WIN WIN

Thanks to Madeby Sam we have 2 beautiful pieces to give away.

For your chance to win the the custom made initial Orchids bracelet and matching earrings below simply visit the etsy stores www.madebysam.etsy.com and www.sammi84.etsy.com and tell us which piece is your favorite. The initial you want on the bracelet and which stone you would like.

For extra Entries: follow them on Facebook here

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Special offer: They are offering CraftGossip Readers  a FREE GIFT with every purchase $40 or more. Simply mention “craftgossip giveaway” in the notes to seller during they check out to receive the free gift. . The promotion apply on all our shops here

www.madebysam.etsy.com

www.sammi84.etsy.com

www.madebysam2.etsy.com
Also, we do combine shipping on all 3 shops. The extra shipping fee
will be refund through Paypal after purchase .

Competition Closes – September 1st

Competition Open – Worldwide

Comments

  1. Oh my goodness! I love this jewelry! I especially like the Peridot gold leaf pear lotus petal ear wires. I would like the initial L and the red garnet stone. Beautiful!

    Admin- CONGRATULATIONS LISA YOU HAVE BEEN SELECTED AS THE WINNER

  2. WOW, that’s pretty! That Orchids bracelet is my favorite but I also love the Apple green chrysoprase , salmond pink coral silver chanderlier earrings!

    I would like the initial C and the persian turquoise stone.

  4. I love the LIMITED EDITION – BLUE PERUVIAN OPAL and silver fern leaf- sterling silverLariat!

    I would get initial D and amethyst stone if I had to pick one! 🙂

  7. I’m in LOVE with all items and have both pages bookmarked as favorites on my etsy site. As a bride to be, I will likely be ordering my bridesmaid gifts from them, as well as my own jewelry (unless I win).

    My favorite piece is currently the (copied title) SILVER orchid, inital disc ,IOLITE BLUE QUARTZ on STERLING SILVER CHAIN -NECKLACE -CUSTOM INITIAL AND STONE.

    So VERY beautiful and elegant! Love them all!

  8. The Gold rutilated Mint leaf 14k gold filled chain Long necklace ( 40 inches ) is GORGEOUS and if I won the above set I would like the pearl and M initial.

  9. i love all of this jewelry! it’s so gorgeous!!
    my favorites, if i must, are the golden orchid necklace and the silver monogrammed initial necklace. or, any of the other beautiful pieces!

    i would like the initial “c” and the champagne mystic quartz if i’m lucky enough to win! thank you!!

  10. Beautiful! It’s so hard to pick a favorite piece…it’s all fantastic. I do love the Bare Leaf necklace w/initial & stone. I’d choose a ‘B’ and Carnelian stone. Lovely!

  11. I love the turquoise and golde circles earrings! They are absolutely gorgeous!!! I would like pearl with the inital L. The pearls with these golden flowers are stunning.

  12. I luv all these designs-great designs & craftmanship! The Silver Orchid Necklace is my favorite – Soooo beautiful!

  14. PERIDOT, COIN PEARL ,INITIAL DISC IN 14K GOLD FILLED NECKLACE is my favorite. Love those coin pearls. I would choose the coin pearl and the inital R

  16. I’m torn…I think I would go for the coin pearl earrings in silver (though I’m loving the Tree of Life necklace and Vine Earrings as well!!). I’d go for a rose quartz and the initial ‘V’, please!

  17. I love the BLUE KYANITE , SILVER INITIAL LEAF, PEARL NECKLACE IN STERLING SILVER. Everything in the stores is beautiful. I would choose a blue stone.

  18. I LOVE the LIMITED EDITION – BLUE PERUVIAN OPAL!
    I would choose the initial K and persian turquoise!
    Thanks so much for a chance to win!!! Beautiful stuff!

  19. I just love the flowing organic quality of this jewelry. While I like to rotate the jewelry I wear, I have one ring that I never take off (not a wedding ring) and it has the same close-to-nature feel as these pieces. My fave is the silver orchid necklace with the iolite blue quartz…so elegant! My extremely close 2nd fave is the silver lotus. I love eastern design, as well. Anyway, if I’m lucky enough to win, I’d love the iolite blue quartz and I’d actually prefer not to have an initial attached. Thanks so much for the opportunity to see this amazing jewelry and the chance to win something so lovely!

  21. My favorite piece is the Spring Garden necklace. My pick would be chrysoprase and the letter ‘A’!

  23. My absolute favorite thing on their site is the HALO – PINK TOPAZ ON 14K GOLD FILLED AND VERMEIL – LARIAT AND LONG NECKLACE. I would like an S initial on the bracelet with an amethyst stone. Thanks for the giveaway!

  24. fave: Golden orchid, gold inital disc , champagne mystic quartz on 14K GOLD FILLED CHAIN -NECKLACE (ALSO AVAILABLE IN SILVER)
    stone: peridot
    initial: d
    xoxoxo

  25. Very cool designs. I really like the Sealife Infinity bracelet. I love the ocean and would like the iolite stone with the letter V. I think these would make great gifts.

  26. I really like the Tree Of LIfe Aqua Earrings.
    I like the tones in the Bicolor Quartz and with the Letter T.

  28. I love everything, but especially the bright orange carnelian and golden orchid 14k gold filled lariat. Gorgeous!

  29. Everything is absolutely exquisite… I simply can’t pick what I like best!! The stone I would choose would be my birthstone – garnet and my initial ‘m’.

  30. Whaa so pretty! I like the “SEA LIFE -CUSTOM INITIAL AND STONE – STERLING SILVER STARFISH ,INITIAL SILVER DISC ,AQUA CHALCEDONY, PEARL , – STERLING SILVER NECKLACE”

    I had 3 others I really liked, but since I can only choose one, this one is my pick for the best.

    Initial: A
    Gemstone: Rose Quartz

  31. Frpm the 1st website I like Crescent Moon Earrings. From the 2nd website I like Coin Pearl Earrings.

    Initial: M

    Gemstone: Iotile Blue

    melodyj(at)gmail(dot)com

  32. I love the custom initial jewelry from the first website. On the second website I like any or all of the pearl jewelry. I would like the initial K and the stone topaz. Thank you!

  33. I love the Aqua and Gold leaf Double layer 14k gold filled Necklace from sammi84 and from Madebysam2 i love HOT PINK CHALCEDONY Earrings -custom stone

    i would love the inital N and the hot pink 1 gem

  38. I love the citrine, labradorite and vermeil earrings!!! I also like the three lariat with turquoise. I think they would both be great additions to my jewelry wardrobe! I would choose a K because I am getting married soon and it will be my new last name with a pearl for my June birthday!!!

  39. I like any color or design.

    My favorite stones are Turquoise and my initial is T
    I love to be surprised and all the artwork by Sam is lovely so I wouldn’t be picky! Keep creating those remarkable works of wearable art.

  40. I’m in love with Red garnet gold chandelier earrings.
    My favorite stone is Turquoise blue chal and my favorite initial is A!!!!

  41. Cute alert!

    CUSTOM STONE – GREEN CHRYSOPRASE , GOLD LEAF, PEARL LOTUS PETAL EAR WIRES

    I would like a J with champagne quartz.

  42. I like the CUSTOM INITIAL AND STONE -INITIAL DISC ,PEARL , SILVER LEAF -NECKLACE IN STERLING SILVER. The initial I’d use would be RH. Or at least R.

  44. I love the orchid & leaf earrings! I’d get D as my initial, and peridot since it’s my birthstone and I so rarely find it in jewelry that I like as much as this stuff.

  45. I like the orchids necklace in silver. If I win, I’d like a J as the initial with the emerald.

  47. I LOVE the Sparkling CITRINE rhinestones studs. They’re so bold! I would have the initial C with the bi-color quartz. 🙂

  48. Ack, I had a hard time deciding. I like the Gold rutilated Mint leaf 14k gold filled chain Long necklace but I also really love it in the Black rutilated quartz ,silver leaf in sterling silver -Long necklace. I think the orchid bracelets are great too.
    The initial I would love is W with a light amethyst.

Have you read?

How To Make A Stretch Bead Bracelet For Beginners

Stretch bead bracelets are one of the easiest jewelry making projects for beginners, and they are wonderfully satisfying because you can finish one in a single sitting. No clasp, no crimp beads, no complicated wirework — just beads, stretchy cord and a good secure knot.

This is the sort of handmade jewelry project that is perfect for using up leftover beads, making quick gifts, or dipping your toes into beginner jewelry making without buying half the craft store. Although, let’s be honest, beads do have a way of following us home.

A stretch bracelet is also a lovely project for craft nights, teenagers, handmade market prep, party favours, stocking stuffers and “I need a quick gift but I refuse to buy something boring” moments.

If you have already tried making a simple beaded bracelet for beginners, this stretch bead bracelet is a nice no-clasp version to add to your jewelry-making list.

Why Stretch Bracelets Are Great For Beginners

Stretch bracelets are beginner-friendly because they use very few supplies. You do not need a clasp or special finishing findings, and the bracelet is easy to put on and take off.

They are also very forgiving. If your first design looks a little too busy, you can unstring the beads and try again. That is one of the joys of beginner bead projects — nothing is permanent until you tie the knot.

Stretch bracelets are great for:

  • beginner jewelry makers
  • kids and teens with supervision
  • handmade gifts
  • craft group projects
  • bead stash projects
  • gemstone bracelets
  • friendship bracelets
  • matching mother-daughter bracelets

Supplies You Will Need

To make one stretch bead bracelet, you will need:

  • Beads of your choice
  • Stretch jewelry cord
  • Scissors or jewelry cutters
  • Bead stopper, clip or tape
  • Clear jewelry glue, optional
  • Measuring tape
  • Small bead tray or towel

Good bead choices include glass beads, gemstone beads, acrylic beads, seed beads, clay heishi beads, wooden beads and pearls. For your first bracelet, medium-sized beads are easiest to manage.

If you are building a beginner jewelry kit, a bead board, bead storage box and a roll of quality elastic cord are worth having. You will use them again and again.

Choosing The Best Elastic Cord

Not all elastic cord is equal. Some cords are too flimsy, some stretch out quickly, and some are too thick for small bead holes.

For beginner stretch bracelets, choose elastic cord that:

  • fits through your beads easily
  • feels strong when gently pulled
  • knots securely
  • is not too thin for heavier beads
  • has enough stretch to slip over the hand

If you are using heavier glass or gemstone beads, choose a stronger elastic cord. If you are using tiny seed beads, make sure the cord is thin enough to pass through the bead holes.

The trick is finding a cord that is strong but still fits your beads. It is a little like choosing jeans — the right fit makes everything easier.

How To Measure For A Stretch Bracelet

Wrap a soft measuring tape around your wrist where you want the bracelet to sit. Add around 1/2 inch for a comfortable fit.

For larger beads, add a little more room because chunky beads sit further away from the wrist.

As a simple guide:

Wrist SizeFinished Bracelet Length
6 inches6.5 inches
6.5 inches7 inches
7 inches7.5 inches
7.5 inches8 inches
8 inches8.5 inches

If you are making a bracelet as a gift and do not know the wrist size, 7 to 7.5 inches is a common adult bracelet size.

Step 1: Plan Your Bead Design

Lay your beads out on a bead board, towel or piece of felt. A soft surface stops beads from rolling away, which is very helpful unless your hobby includes crawling under furniture.

You can make a simple repeating pattern or a random mix.

Try these easy stretch bracelet ideas:

  • pearl, spacer, pearl, spacer
  • gemstone bead, metal spacer, gemstone bead
  • rainbow beads in colour order
  • neutral beads with one charm bead
  • clay heishi beads in soft pastel colours
  • wooden beads with one feature bead

If you want your bracelet to look balanced, place your feature bead in the centre and mirror the pattern on both sides.

Step 2: Cut The Elastic Cord

Cut a piece of elastic cord several inches longer than your finished bracelet size. For most adult bracelets, 10 to 12 inches gives you enough cord to work with.

Do not cut the cord too short. You need enough extra length to tie a good knot comfortably.

Step 3: Pre-Stretch The Cord

Before adding beads, gently stretch the cord a few times.

This helps reduce the chance of the bracelet stretching out after wearing. Be gentle — you want to pre-stretch it, not wrestle it into submission.

Step 4: Secure One End

Place a bead stopper, small clip or piece of tape on one end of the elastic cord. This stops your beads from sliding off while you work.

This step feels small, but it saves a lot of bead-related drama.

Step 5: String Your Beads

Thread the beads onto the cord in your chosen pattern.

Check the length as you go by wrapping the bracelet gently around your wrist. Remember that the bracelet needs to stretch over the hand, so it should not be too tight.

If using large beads, test the fit carefully. Large beads make a bracelet feel smaller than tiny beads.

Step 6: Tie A Secure Knot

When your bracelet is the right size, remove the bead stopper and bring the two ends of the elastic together.

Tie a strong knot. A surgeon’s knot or a square knot with an extra pass is commonly used for stretch bracelets.

Pull the knot firmly, but not so hard that the elastic weakens. Add a tiny dab of clear jewelry glue if you like, then let it dry properly.

Do not flood the knot with glue. A tiny amount is enough. Too much glue can make the knot stiff and messy.

Step 7: Hide The Knot

Once the glue is dry, trim the cord ends carefully.

If possible, slide the knot inside a nearby bead with a larger hole. This gives the bracelet a neater finish and helps protect the knot.

If your beads have small holes, place the knot between two beads and trim carefully.

Step 8: Test The Bracelet

Gently stretch the bracelet a few times and check that the knot holds.

Look for:

  • loose cord ends
  • weak knot
  • beads that pinch
  • bracelet that is too tight
  • bracelet that rolls too much
  • beads with sharp edges

If the bracelet feels too tight, remake it before gifting or wearing. Stretch bracelets need a comfortable fit.

Common Stretch Bracelet Mistakes

Using Cord That Is Too Thin

Thin cord may fit easily through the beads, but it can break more easily, especially with heavy beads.

Making The Bracelet Too Tight

A tight bracelet stretches every time it is worn and may break sooner.

Not Pre-Stretching The Cord

Pre-stretching helps reduce sagging later.

Cutting The Ends Too Soon

Wait until your knot is secure and glue is dry before trimming the cord.

Using Beads With Sharp Holes

Some beads have rough edges around the holes, especially cheaper glass or gemstone beads. These can cut through elastic over time.

Easy Stretch Bracelet Variations

Gemstone Stretch Bracelet

Use gemstone beads in one colour family for a simple boho-style bracelet. Add a small charm or metal spacer for a finished look.

Pearl Stretch Bracelet

Use faux pearls or freshwater pearls with small gold spacers for a pretty bracelet that works well as a handmade gift.

Clay Heishi Bracelet

Clay heishi beads make cheerful, lightweight bracelets. They are perfect for summer colours, teens and stacked bracelet sets.

Memory Bracelet

Use beads from an old broken necklace and turn them into a new stretch bracelet. This is a lovely way to reuse sentimental beads. For another upcycled idea, see this bracelet made from upcycled necklaces.

Birthstone Stretch Bracelet

Use birthstone-coloured beads for birthdays, Mother’s Day or bridesmaid gifts. Pair it with this DIY birthstone necklace for a sweet handmade jewellery set.

How To Package A Stretch Bracelet As A Gift

A stretch bead bracelet makes a lovely small gift. Pop it into a small organza bag, kraft jewellery box or handmade paper envelope.

You can add:

  • a handwritten tag
  • birthstone meaning
  • care instructions
  • matching earrings
  • tiny charm
  • gift box ribbon

If you are making several bracelets for gifts, choose a colour theme and make each one slightly different.

Stretch Bracelet Care Tips

To help a stretch bracelet last longer:

  • roll it gently over the hand instead of pulling hard
  • avoid wearing it in water
  • keep it away from perfume and lotions
  • store it flat or in a jewellery pouch
  • check the knot occasionally

Stretch bracelets are simple, pretty and wonderfully wearable. Once you learn the basic technique, you can make them in endless colours and styles — and yes, this is absolutely an excuse to buy more beads.