Home / Crafts / Jewelry Crafts / How to Make Stretchy Beaded Bracelets That Actually Last

How to Make Stretchy Beaded Bracelets That Actually Last

Learn how to make stretchy beaded bracelets with elastic cord and glass beads, plus tips for tying a secure knot that actually holds!

Skills Required: None. Even if you’ve never crafted before, you’ll be able to make these.

how to make stretchy bracelets

If you’ve ever seen a stack of cute beaded bracelets and thought, “I could totally make that”—guess what? You absolutely can. And stretchy bracelets? They’re basically the gateway drug to DIY jewelry.

No fancy tools, no tricky clasps, and no jewelry degree required. Just elastic cord, beads you love, and a knot that actually stays tied. Yes, we’re going to talk about that.

In this tutorial, I’m walking you through how to make a classic beaded bracelet using 1mm elastic cord and 10mm glass beads. You’ll use 15 – 17 beads per bracelet.

how to make a stretchy beaded bracelet

It’s fast, satisfying, and kind of addicting once you get into it. These are perfect for stacking, gifting, or making with kids (hello, craft night!).

I’m also sharing all the little tips no one tells you. Like why you should always pre-stretch your cord, how to tie a knot that won’t betray you later, and a simple trick to hide that knot so your bracelet looks polished.

This is one of those crafts you can crank out in 10 minutes but wear like it came straight from a boutique.

stretch beaded bracelet on a woman's wrist

So grab your beads and let’s get stringing, because your wrists deserve to sparkle a little.

Get the printable how to card below:

scissors, elastic cord, and a beaded bracelet
Save Print
No ratings yet

Make Stretchy Bracelets

Learn how to make stretch beaded bracelets perfect for crafty fun or gifting. Both kids and adults can make these.
Active Time30 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Type: Jewelry Crafts
Yield: 1 bracelet
Cost: $1

Equipment

Materials

  • 12 inches clear elastic cord 1mm
  • 17 glass beads 10mm
  • Clear jewelry glue optional, but helpful

Instructions

  • Cut a piece of elastic cord about 12 inches long. This gives you plenty of room to string beads and tie the knot.
    scissors, glass beads, and elastic cord
  • Before you string anything, give the elastic cord a few gentle tugs along its length. This helps it relax and prevents your finished bracelet from stretching out over time. It only takes a few seconds, and trust me, it makes a difference.
    measuring the string
  • Add all beads onto the cord in your desired pattern. The finished bracelet should be about 6-7 inches, which fits most adult wrists.
    stringing the beads
  • Bring both ends of the elastic cord together. Create loop at the end and wrap the cord through the loop twice (see the diagram in the notes).
    Preparing to tie the knot
  • Pull firmly on both ends and make sure the knot is snug against the beads. For extra hold, add a small dot of clear jewelry glue to the knot. Let dry completely.
    Tying the knot
  • Trim the excess cord, and if possible, slide the knot into the hole of a nearby bead to hide it.
    Tightening the knot

Notes

Step 3: Use a binder clip or bead stopper on one end so your beads don’t slide off while you work (optional).
Step 4:
Knotting Elastic Cords
Image courtesy of Beadalon
Another method for tying elastic cord is the surgeon’s knot, which you can see here. Basically you’re just wrapping a few more times.

Enjoyed this tutorial? Let me know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other posts:

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Give Your Rating