DIY Beaded Tassel Earrings: A Simple Centerline Hexagon Tutorial

Updated at: 23/03/2025

Add a touch of bohemian chic to your everyday style with these stunning DIY beaded tassel earrings! This simple tutorial guides you through creating elegant earrings featuring a unique centerline hexagon design, perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. Forget expensive designer pieces; with readily available materials and a little patience, you can craft a pair of beautiful, personalized earrings that reflect your individual style. The intricate hexagon design is surprisingly easy to achieve, adding a sophisticated touch without complicated techniques.

These captivating beaded tassel earrings are more attainable than you think! Using straightforward steps and clear instructions, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can assemble these eye-catching accessories. Prepare to be captivated by the shimmering elegance of your handmade creations. Let's dive into the step-by-step process to crafting your own pair of these mesmerizing DIY beaded tassel earrings.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Miyuki Delicas size 11 beads (2 colors)
  • Beadable Centerline hexagon link
  • Kidney wire
  • Jump ring
  • 5mm 21 gauge wire
  • Tassel
  • Nymo thread (size D)
  • Big eye needle
  • Snips/Scissors
  • Chain nose pliers (regular and bent)
  • GS Hypo Cement glue
  • Ruler
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children if they are participating in any part of this craft project. Small beads and wires present a choking hazard.
  • Use sharp scissors and wire cutters with caution. Keep fingers away from the cutting edges to avoid injury.
  • If using jewelry wire, be mindful of the type of wire and ensure it's appropriate for your chosen beads and earring findings. Some wires can be brittle or difficult to work with.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Cut two 2-foot lengths of Nymo thread (size D). Doubling the thread creates a stronger structure for the beads.
    Prepare Nymo thread: Cut two 2-foot lengths of Nymo thread (size D). Doubling the thread creates a stronger structure for the beads.
    Prepare Materials

  2. Prepare Needle and Thread

    • Thread both ends of the doubled Nymo thread through a big eye needle.
    Thread the needle: Thread both ends of the doubled Nymo thread through a big eye needle.
    Prepare Needle and Thread

  3. Start Beading

    • Start at the back of the Centerline hexagon, inserting the needle through the first hole from back to front, leaving an 8-inch tail.
    Begin beading: Start at the back of the Centerline hexagon, inserting the needle through the first hole from back to front, leaving an 8-inch tail.
    Start Beading

  4. First Bead Row

    • String three beads (maroon in this example) onto the needle, slide them down, and pass the needle through the center of the hexagon from front to back. Go back through the three beads.
    First row: String three beads (maroon in this example) onto the needle, slide them down, and pass the needle through the center of the hexagon from front to back. Go back through the three beads.
    First Bead Row

  5. Subsequent Bead Rows

    • Repeat the process, alternating bead colors (gold in this example), passing the needle through the center of the hexagon and then through the next hole from front to back. For the first row only, do an extra pass back through the beads for added security.
    Subsequent rows: Repeat the process, alternating bead colors (gold in this example), passing the needle through the center of the hexagon and then through the next hole from front to back. For the first row only, do an extra pass back through the beads for added security.
    Subsequent Bead Rows

  6. Finish Beading and Secure

    • Once all rows are completed, tie off the thread by creating a loop, passing the needle through the loop to make a knot. For extra security, pass the needle through a few more beads and trim the excess thread.
    • Add a small amount of glue to the knotted thread ends for extra security. Let it dry.
    Securing the thread: Add a small amount of glue to the knotted thread ends for extra security. Let it dry.Securing the thread: Add a small amount of glue to the knotted thread ends for extra security. Let it dry.
    Finish Beading and Secure

  7. Attach Tassel

    • Attach a jump ring to connect the earring finding and the tassel.
    Attaching the tassel: Attach a jump ring to connect the earring finding and the tassel.
    Attach Tassel

  8. Attach Earring Finding

    • Open the kidney ear wire, add the beaded hexagon, and close the wire.
    Attaching the earring finding: Open the kidney ear wire, add the beaded hexagon, and close the wire.
    Attach Earring Finding

Read more: Twisted Wire Spiral Earrings: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Start beading at the hole with the extra gap at the top row for a smoother bead alignment.
  • Work slowly and carefully to avoid tangling the threads.
  • Passing the needle through the center of the hexagon after each row helps to crisscross your threads and keep the beads secure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Bead Distribution

Reason: Inconsistent bead placement along the hexagon's sides leads to an asymmetrical and unprofessional-looking tassel.
Solution: Carefully count and evenly space beads along each hexagon side before securing them.

2. Loose or Falling Apart Hexagon

Reason: Insufficient or weak knotting of the beading thread results in a fragile hexagon that can unravel or fall apart during wear.
Solution: Use strong thread and secure each knot firmly, preferably with multiple knots for extra strength.

FAQs

What type of beads should I use for this project?
You can use any type of beads you like! Seed beads are popular for their small size and uniformity, but you can also experiment with larger beads, glass beads, or even gemstones for a more luxurious look. Just make sure they are relatively uniform in size for a cleaner finished hexagon.
How long should my tassels be?
The tassel length is entirely up to your preference! Shorter tassels create a more delicate look, while longer tassels make a bolder statement. Aim for a length that complements your face shape and overall style. You can adjust the number of strands in the tassel to control length.
What if I don't have all the exact supplies listed?
Don't worry if you don't have the exact same beads or findings. Get creative! Substitute similar items - a slightly different colored bead or a different type of earring hook will work just fine. The important thing is to have fun and experiment!