Boho Necklace Tutorial: Mixing Metals Like a Pro!

Updated at: 31/01/2025

Bohemian style is all about effortless cool, a relaxed vibe achieved through carefully curated layers and textures. Nowhere is this more evident than in the eclectic layering of necklaces – a true hallmark of boho chic. Forget the rule book that says you can only wear one metal; mixing metals is a key ingredient in creating that signature bohemian look. This tutorial will guide you through the art of confidently combining silver, gold, and rose gold, transforming simple chains and pendants into a stunning, statement piece that reflects your unique personality.

This isn't about haphazardly throwing on every necklace you own; it's about achieving a balanced and stylish blend. We'll explore different techniques for mixing metals effectively, from choosing the right chain lengths and pendant styles to understanding the subtle nuances of color and weight. Ready to elevate your jewelry game? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and learn how to master the art of boho necklace creation!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Beads (various colors, shapes, and materials)
  • Chain Reaction (Jesse James Beads)
  • Crimp tubes
  • Wire guardians (optional)
  • Jump rings (5mm gold)
  • Lobster claw clasp (gold)
  • 22 gauge craft wire (antique brass or similar)
  • Beading wire (49 strand 0.018 inch)
  • Crimp covers
  • Pliers (chain nose, flat nose, crimping pliers)
  • Tassel
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wash your hands before and after handling jewelry-making materials to prevent the transfer of oils and dirt that can dull the shine of your metals.
  • Be mindful of sharp components like wire ends. Use wire cutters to trim wires cleanly and handle them with care to avoid cuts.
  • If using a soldering iron or other heat sources, work in a well-ventilated area and use appropriate safety gear like gloves and eye protection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Beading Wire and Initial Beads

    • Cut a 12-inch piece of beading wire. Attach a bead stopper or clip. Thread on a teardrop bead, 6mm round bead, fern bead, gold rhinestone bead, flower bead, and rondelle.
    Prepare Beading Wire and Thread Beads: Cut a 12-inch piece of beading wire. Attach a bead stopper or clip. Thread on a teardrop bead, 6mm round bead, fern bead, gold rhinestone bead, flower bead, and rondelle.
    Prepare Beading Wire and Initial Beads

  2. Add Chain Reaction and Bronze Bead

    • Snip off two chain reaction pieces. Thread one onto the wire, followed by a faceted bronze bead, the second chain reaction piece, and a copper bead.
    Add Chain Reaction Pieces: Snip off two chain reaction pieces. Thread one onto the wire, followed by a faceted bronze bead, the second chain reaction piece, and a copper bead.
    Add Chain Reaction and Bronze Bead

  3. Complete Bead Stringing

    • Add the remaining beads in the sequence shown in the video.
    Continue Beading: Add the remaining beads in the sequence shown in the video.
    Complete Bead Stringing

  4. Attach the Tassel

    • Attach a rondelle to the top of the tassel using its existing loop. Use a jump ring to connect the tassel to the ends of the two chain reaction pieces.
    Attach Tassel: Attach a rondelle to the top of the tassel using its existing loop. Use a jump ring to connect the tassel to the ends of the two chain reaction pieces.
    Attach the Tassel

  5. Crimp and Secure First End

    • Thread on a crimp tube and wire guardian. Pull the wire through, ensuring the tail is inside the crimp tube. Crimp using crimping pliers. Add a crimp cover.
    Crimp and Secure One End: Thread on a crimp tube and wire guardian. Pull the wire through, ensuring the tail is inside the crimp tube. Crimp using crimping pliers. Add a crimp cover.
    Crimp and Secure First End

  6. Crimp and Secure Second End

    • Repeat the crimping process on the other end of the necklace.
    Crimp and Secure the Other End: Repeat the crimping process on the other end of the necklace.
    Crimp and Secure Second End

  7. Prepare Additional Chain Sections

    • Snip and prepare the remaining chain reaction pieces (two pieces, each with 4 lengths, a rondelle, and 2 lengths).
    Prepare the Necklace Strand: Snip and prepare the remaining chain reaction pieces (two pieces, each with 4 lengths, a rondelle, and 2 lengths).
    Prepare Additional Chain Sections

  8. Attach Chain Sections to Main Strand

    • Attach the prepared chain reaction pieces to each end of the beaded strand using jump rings.
    Attach Chain Reaction Pieces to the Main Strand: Attach the prepared chain reaction pieces to each end of the beaded strand using jump rings.
    Attach Chain Sections to Main Strand

  9. Attach Copper End Beads

    • Use 22 gauge wire to attach a copper bead to each end of the necklace, ensuring the fern details face upward for symmetry.
    Attach Copper End Beads: Use 22 gauge wire to attach a copper bead to each end of the necklace, ensuring the fern details face upward for symmetry.
    Attach Copper End Beads

  10. Attach Clasp

    • Attach a jump ring to one end and attach the lobster claw clasp. Close the jump ring securely.
    Attach Clasp: Attach a jump ring to one end and attach the lobster claw clasp. Close the jump ring securely.
    Attach Clasp

Read more: Elegant Russian Spiral Necklace Tutorial: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Mix metals effectively by distributing colors evenly throughout the necklace. Don't be afraid to experiment with different bead combinations!
  • Ensure jump rings are closed completely to prevent gaps. Double-check from various angles.
  • Crimp tubes should be closed tightly to secure the beading wire. Use multiple crimping pliers to ensure a secure closure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Metal Distribution

Reason: Too much of one metal type can create an unbalanced and visually unappealing necklace.
Solution: Distribute the metals evenly across the necklace, using smaller pieces of the dominant metal to create visual harmony.

2. Clashing Metal Finishes

Reason: Mixing highly polished metals with heavily oxidized or antiqued metals without careful consideration can create a jarring look.
Solution: Maintain consistency in the finish (e.g., all matte, all shiny) or strategically use contrasting finishes to create a deliberate, stylish effect.

FAQs

Can I use any type of metal for a boho necklace?
While you can experiment, sticking to similar metal tones (like gold and rose gold, or silver and gunmetal) generally creates a more cohesive look. Avoid mixing highly contrasting metals like bright gold and dull silver unless you're going for a very eclectic, statement piece.
How do I prevent the different metals from tarnishing at different rates?
Properly cleaning and storing your necklace is key. Avoid exposure to water, lotions, and perfumes. Store your necklace individually in a fabric-lined jewelry box or pouch to minimize contact between different metals and prevent scratching.