Kirstielu: DIY Long Beaded Necklace

So in the last few months I have been trying this whole "following my dreams to be an artist" thing and while its the most amazing feeling in the world to do what you love every day it also comes with a lot of sacrifices. Like a steady salary for instance. So this year with being a starving artist and the state of the economy I have decided to give mostly handmade gifts this holiday season along with a few small etsy purchases and thrifted treasures. Handmade gifts can be just as special if not more so as store bought gifts. I love a handmade gift because it is so special and unique and so much care and love went into making it. I have put together several easy thoughtful gift projects that are all under $10.00. I know I am not the only one having to make sacrifices this year but I didn't want to miss out on gift giving all together because I really enjoy giving the people I care about presents. Its one of the ways I say you are special to me and care about you and I'm so glad you're in my life. You can join me in making this cheap winter solstice even better than if we'd all won the Lottery or at least a more meaningful close second :)

DIY Long Beaded Necklace

Supplies Needed: Scissors, fishing line or bead chord, small beads, large bead or gem, ribbon, and hot glue gun. I purchased my beads and ribbon from Hobby Lobby and the other supplies I had on hand. If I have to go to the craft store to buy something I ALWAYS bring a coupon or wait for a sale. In this case the beads were on sale already at 50% off and I used a 50% off one item coupon for the ribbon. Craft stores like, Joanne's, Hobby Lobby, and Michael's almost always have some kind of promotion or coupon running in the weekly paper or online. If you take the extra time to print/cut them out you'll save yourself a ton of money. NEVER EVER PAY FULL RETAIL!! Craft stores can really be a rip off.

INSTRUCTIONS

Cut a long piece of fishing line and tie a sturdy knot on one end big enough so the tiny beads can't slide off. String your beads and statement gem. Tie the ends together in a sturdy triple knot and trim the excess ends. Cut a small strip of your ribbon and place under the knot. Add a small dab of hot glue and tie the ribbon in a knot around the glue so that the necklace won't break. Trim the excess ribbon and voila! You're done. Easy and cheap yet still pretty. I love long necklaces and wear them frequently. I think they make excellent winter fashion accessories because they look so cute with sweaters.