Boho Matubo Bracelet Tutorial: The Easy 6-0 Seed Bead Method

Updated at: 04/02/2025

Boho Matubo bracelets are the epitome of effortless chic, their delicate, shimmering strands adding a touch of bohemian flair to any outfit. These stunning bracelets, often featuring vibrant colours and intricate patterns, can seem intimidating to create, but with the right technique, they're surprisingly simple to make. The magic lies in mastering the seed bead technique, and this tutorial focuses on an especially easy method using 6-0 seed beads – perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. This elegant style allows for personalized creativity, making each bracelet a unique and treasured piece of jewelry.

This tutorial will guide you through a straightforward 6-0 seed bead method, enabling you to craft your own beautiful Boho Matubo bracelet in no time. Get ready to learn the steps involved in creating this stylish accessory, from choosing your materials to securing the final knot. Let's dive into the easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions and begin crafting your own unique piece of wearable art!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Matubo 6-0 seed beads (approx. 220)
  • 1mm leather cord (80cm+)
  • Button clasp (metal recommended)
  • Scissors
  • Pliers
  • Piece of straw
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp, high-quality scissors to prevent frayed threads and ensure clean cuts. Dull scissors can cause the thread to snag and break, ruining your work.
  • Avoid pulling the thread too tightly while stringing beads, as this can damage the beads or cause the thread to break. Maintain a consistent, gentle tension.
  • If working with small seed beads, it's crucial to work in a well-lit area with a comfortable workspace to avoid eye strain and ensure accurate bead placement.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • button, 80cm+ cord (doubled through button holes)
    Prepare materials: button, 80cm+ cord (doubled through button holes)
    Prepare Materials

  2. Create Initial Knot

    • Create a secure knot using the straw technique (explained in detail in the video).
    Secure the cord ends: Create a secure knot using the straw technique (explained in detail in the video).
    Create Initial Knot

  3. Add Bead Rows

    • Start stringing Matubo 6-0 beads and other beads onto the cord, alternating colors and bead types as desired.
    • After each row of beads, use a simple overhand knot to prevent beads from slipping.
    • Repeat steps 3 and 4 until desired bracelet length is reached.
    Repeat steps 3 and 4 until desired bracelet length is reached.Repeat steps 3 and 4 until desired bracelet length is reached.Repeat steps 3 and 4 until desired bracelet length is reached.
    Add Bead Rows

  4. Create Clasp

    • Use the straw knotting technique again to create a secure loop at each end of the bracelet, forming the clasp.
    Create the clasp closure: Use the straw knotting technique again to create a secure loop at each end of the bracelet, forming the clasp.
    Create Clasp

  5. Add End Ornaments (Optional)

    • Add small bead clusters to the cord ends for extra decoration.
    Optional ornaments: Add small bead clusters to the cord ends for extra decoration.
    Add End Ornaments (Optional)

Read more: DIY Crystal Bracelet: Easy Square Knot Tutorial

Tips

  • Use more than 80cm of cord if unsure about bracelet length.
  • Matubo beads are advantageous due to their larger inner hole size.
  • The straw knotting technique creates a secure and elegant knot.
  • Experiment with different bead colors and types for a unique bracelet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Bead Spacing

Reason: Inconsistent tension while weaving can lead to some sections appearing tighter or looser than others, resulting in uneven bead spacing.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension throughout the weaving process by using a consistent, gentle pulling force.

2. Incorrect Seed Bead Placement

Reason: Misplacing seed beads can disrupt the pattern and cause the bracelet to look crooked or irregular.
Solution: Double-check your bead placement before adding the next row to ensure accuracy.

3. Knotting Issues

Reason: Loose or weak knots can cause the bracelet to unravel, while overly tight knots make it difficult to work with and can damage the thread.
Solution: Practice tying secure, yet not overly tight, knots using a consistent method.

FAQs

What size seed beads should I use for this Boho Matubo bracelet?
The standard size for this technique is size 11/0 seed beads. Using a different size will significantly alter the look and potentially the difficulty of the bracelet.
I'm running into trouble with my beading wire. What should I do?
Ensure you're using strong beading wire (like 0.25mm or similar). If it's breaking, you may be pulling too hard or the wire itself is low quality. Try using a smaller needle to minimize friction and damage to the wire.