DIY Beach Dunes Choker & Bracelet: 2 Easy Ways to Make Stunning Jewelry

The sun-kissed shores hold more than just seashells and sandcastles; they offer a treasure trove of natural beauty waiting to be transformed into stunning, wearable art. Imagine adorning yourself with the very essence of the beach, a piece of its captivating charm captured in delicate jewelry. This tutorial will guide you through two incredibly simple methods for creating a breathtaking beach dunes choker and matching bracelet, using readily available materials and minimal crafting skills. The raw, natural beauty of these pieces makes them perfect for summer days and seaside adventures.

Forget expensive designer jewelry; you can craft exquisite pieces yourself that reflect your unique style and connection to nature. We'll be using the texture and color of sand to create these eye-catching accessories, turning simple materials into wearable works of art. Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and discover how effortlessly you can create these beautiful beach-inspired pieces.

Safety Guidelines

  • Always supervise children when crafting and ensure small beads and findings are kept out of reach to prevent choking hazards.
  • Use caution when working with sharp tools like wire cutters or scissors. Always cut away from yourself and your body.
  • Be mindful of potential allergies. If using natural materials like shells or beads from unknown sources, be aware of any skin sensitivities you or the recipient may have.

Methods: Beach Dunes Choker/Bracelet Method 1: Crystal & Bugle Bead Pattern

Tools Needed

  • Bagle beads
  • 11/0 beads
  • 3mm crystal bicones
  • Micro faceted gemstone beads
  • Shell charms
  • 15/0 seed beads
  • Magnet clasp
  • Jump rings
  • Beading needle
  • Fireline
  • Red nose & flat nose pliers
  • Scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Start with 55 inches of fireline, wrap around magnet clasp, and tie a double knot.
    • Pre-string needle with a mix of beads.
    Pre-string needle with a mix of beads.Pre-string needle with a mix of beads.
    Prepare Materials
  2. Initial Setup

    • Begin with three 11/0 beads.
    Begin with three 11/0 beads.
    Initial Setup
  3. Main Pattern

    • 2 bugle beads, 1 15/0 seed bead, 2 bugle beads, interspersed with crystals and metallic beads.
    • Repeat the pattern for about 15 inches.
    Repeat the pattern for about 15 inches.Repeat the pattern for about 15 inches.
    Main Pattern
  4. Varied Pattern

    • Bugle beads, 11/0 bead, 15/0 metallic bead, 5 quartz crystal beads (string 5 together at once), 15/0 metallic & 11/0 bead. Repeat this section.
    • Continue with the varied pattern, adding sections of quartz crystals.
    Continue with the varied pattern, adding sections of quartz crystals.Continue with the varied pattern, adding sections of quartz crystals.
    Varied Pattern
  5. Finishing Touches

    • End with three 11/0 beads and attach to the magnet clasp.
    • Securely tie off and sew back through beads to prevent fraying.
    • Add shell charms using jump rings.
    Add shell charms using jump rings.Add shell charms using jump rings.Add shell charms using jump rings.
    Finishing Touches

Tips

  • Stringing five quartz crystals at once simplifies the process.
  • To shorten the bracelet, tie a loose knot in a flexible part of the design.

Methods: Beach Dunes Bracelet Method 2: Coral Branch Variation

Tools Needed

  • Same as Method 1, plus coral branch beads

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the String

    • String beads to desired length, adding 11/0 beads.
    String beads to desired length, adding 11/0 beads.
    Prepare the String
  2. Introduce Coral Branches

    • Incorporate 5-6 coral branch beads of varying lengths.
    Incorporate 5-6 coral branch beads of varying lengths.
    Introduce Coral Branches
  3. Establish Base Pattern

    • Continue the pattern, alternating with bugle beads and bicones.
    Continue the pattern, alternating with bugle beads and bicones.
    Establish Base Pattern
  4. Repeat Pattern with Coral Variations

    • Repeat coral sections and bugle/bicone sections.
    Repeat coral sections and bugle/bicone sections.
    Repeat Pattern with Coral Variations
  5. Finish and Attach Clasp

    • Add magnet clasp and tie off.
    Add magnet clasp and tie off.
    Finish and Attach Clasp

Tips

  • The organic nature of the coral creates a unique and unrepeatable design.

Read more: DIY Maple Burl Bead Necklace: A Step-by-Step Guide

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Glue Application

Reason: Uneven glue distribution on the sand leads to some areas of the jewelry detaching easily.
Solution: Apply a thin, even layer of glue to the entire surface of the sand before pressing it onto the jewelry base.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Glue

Reason: Incorrect glue may not adhere properly to the sand or jewelry base, causing pieces to fall apart.
Solution: Use a strong adhesive specifically designed for crafting and adhering sand to other materials.

3. Insufficient Drying Time

Reason: Rushing the drying process can result in loose sand and weak jewelry that easily breaks.
Solution: Allow ample drying time – at least 24 hours – before wearing or handling the jewelry.

FAQs

What kind of glue is best for attaching the beach dune pieces to the cord?
A strong, waterproof craft glue like E6000 or a jewelry-specific adhesive is recommended. Make sure it's designed for use on both the materials you are using (shells, beads, cord) and will hold up to water exposure.
How can I prevent the choker or bracelet from breaking easily?
Use a strong cord, like waxed cotton cord or strong nylon thread. Also, ensure you've applied enough glue to each beach dune piece, allowing it to dry completely before wearing the jewelry. Avoid excessive pulling or tugging on the finished piece.