Tubular Herringbone Bracelet Tutorial: Mixed Metals Charm

Updated at: 18/03/2025

Herringbone bracelets are a timeless classic, effortlessly chic and surprisingly versatile. This tutorial will guide you through creating a uniquely stunning tubular herringbone bracelet with a captivating mixed-metals charm, adding a modern twist to a traditional design. Imagine the satisfying click of each link as you meticulously weave together the shimmering metals, transforming simple wire into a sophisticated piece of jewelry you'll be proud to wear or gift. The blend of textures and metallic hues will elevate your style, providing a bracelet that's both elegant and eye-catching.

This tutorial will detail each step, from preparing your materials to securing the final clasp, ensuring even a beginner can achieve professional-looking results. Get ready to explore the artistry of metalwork and discover the joy of crafting your own personalized jewelry; let's dive into the step-by-step process and begin creating your exquisite mixed-metals herringbone bracelet.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Size 11 seed beads
  • 4mm round pearls
  • 3mm round pearls
  • Size 10 beading needle
  • FireLine (or similar beading thread)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear safety glasses when working with jewelry-making tools, especially when cutting or hammering metal.
  • Use appropriate pliers for each task to avoid damaging your wire or components. Don't force tools; use the right ones for the job.
  • If working with solder, ensure adequate ventilation and follow all safety precautions on the solder and flux packaging. Wear a respirator if necessary.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Create Starting Loop

    • Create a starting loop using a leather stitch with four size 11 seed beads.
    Create a starting loop using a leather stitch with four size 11 seed beads.
    Create Starting Loop

  2. Tubular Herringbone Base

    • Begin tubular herringbone stitch. Pick up two seed beads and pass through the next bead to the right (choose a direction and stick with it).
    • Continue adding two seed beads at a time, passing through the next bead to the right. When you reach a point where you can't add beads, step up by going through the next two beads to the right.
    • Repeat step 3 until you have 12 rows of seed beads.
    Repeat step 3 until you have 12 rows of seed beads.Repeat step 3 until you have 12 rows of seed beads.Repeat step 3 until you have 12 rows of seed beads.
    Tubular Herringbone Base

  3. Add Mixed Metal Charms

    • Add 3mm and 4mm pearls. Pick up one 3mm pearl, one seed bead, and one 3mm pearl. Pass through the top seed bead to the right. Repeat with 4mm pearls and seed beads, alternating between the two.
    • When adding pearls, step up by passing through the top seed bead and the 3mm pearl. Ignore seed beads between pearls.
    • Continue alternating rows of seed beads and pearl/seed bead combinations until you reach your desired length.
    Continue alternating rows of seed beads and pearl/seed bead combinations until you reach your desired length.Continue alternating rows of seed beads and pearl/seed bead combinations until you reach your desired length.Continue alternating rows of seed beads and pearl/seed bead combinations until you reach your desired length.
    Add Mixed Metal Charms

  4. Close the Bracelet

    • End with a sequence of seed beads to attach the clasp. Connect the final row of seed beads by passing through the beads to close the loop.
    End with a sequence of seed beads to attach the clasp. Connect the final row of seed beads by passing through the beads to close the loop.
    Close the Bracelet

  5. Attach and Secure Clasp

    • Attach clasp using a jump ring and lobster clasp or wire clasp. Secure the clasp by adding seed beads and weaving them into the end of the bracelet.
    • Reinforce the clasp by weaving through adjacent beads.
    Reinforce the clasp by weaving through adjacent beads.Reinforce the clasp by weaving through adjacent beads.
    Attach and Secure Clasp

  6. Finish and Tie Off

    • Finish by tying off the thread with several half-hitch knots.
    Finish by tying off the thread with several half-hitch knots.
    Finish and Tie Off

Read more: DIY Crystal Bracelet: Easy Square Knot Tutorial

Tips

  • Choose a beading direction (left or right) and maintain consistency throughout the process.
  • Gently maneuver beads into place as needed; they may not always sit perfectly.
  • End the bracelet with a seed bead sequence to easily attach the clasp.
  • Consider adding a chain extender for length adjustment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Tension on the Wire

Reason: Inconsistent tension while wrapping the wire around the herringbone tubes leads to a lopsided or misshapen bracelet.
Solution: Maintain consistent, gentle pressure throughout the wrapping process to ensure even tension.

2. Improperly Closing the Jump Rings

Reason: Poorly closed jump rings can cause the charms to fall off or create weak points in the bracelet.
Solution: Close jump rings securely using pliers, ensuring they are fully closed and lay flat.

3. Incorrect Measurement of the Wrist

Reason: An inaccurate wrist measurement results in a bracelet that is either too tight or too loose.
Solution: Measure your wrist carefully and add extra length to accommodate the clasp and desired fit.

FAQs

What type of wire is best for a tubular herringbone bracelet?
For a strong and durable bracelet, opt for either high-quality craft wire (like silver-filled or gold-filled) or readily available, easily workable jewelry wire. Ensure your wire is the appropriate gauge for the desired size and strength of your bracelet.
Can I use different colors or finishes of metal for the mixed-metals effect?
Absolutely! The mixed-metals charm is all about combining different colors and finishes. Experiment with gold, silver, rose gold, or even different finishes like matte and shiny to create a unique look. Just ensure the wire gauges are compatible.
What if I don't have a proper jewelry clasp? Can I use something else?
While a lobster clasp or spring ring clasp is ideal, you can improvise with a strong jump ring and a crimp bead for a simpler closure. However, ensure it's securely fastened to prevent the bracelet from coming undone.