How to Make Clay Beads
I have always had a fascination with clay. I love the texture of it as well as it versatility. There are honestly so many projects where you could incorporate clay. I decided to take my love of clay one step further and created my own beads for a one-of-a-kind necklace!
I paired white and yellow clay beads alongside wooden beads for a fresh, trendy look. Since making this clay bead necklace, I have received a TON of compliments on it. There is nothing better than someone telling you they love your necklace and then asking where you bought it. I love being able tell people I made it!
Check out my tutorial below to see just how easy it is to create your own beads out of clay and turn them into a striking statement necklace!
Here’s what you’ll need:
Yellow and White Sculpey Clay
Parachute Cord Ribbon
Clay Cutting Tools
Jewelry Pliers and Cutters
Clasp
Wooden Beads
Jewelry Wire
Awl
Over Safe Pan
Step 1: Pinch off a piece of your yellow clay and form it into a ball using the palms of your hands.
Step 2: Use your clay poking tool to add holes to your clay, forming it into a bead.
Step 3: Repeat the above steps, creating a bunch of yellow and white beads in different sizes.
Step 4: Once you’ve created all of your clay beads, preheat your over according to the directions on your package of clay. I added a layer of foil over my dish to protect it from the clay. Bake your clay according to the directions on the package.
Step 5: After trying to use parachute cord, I realized it was too thick for the holes in my beads. So, I ended up switching to ribbon. Wrap your ribbon around your neck to get your desired length.
Step 6: Cut a piece of jewelry wire about 3 inches long. Push it through the end of your parachute cord ribbon. Then, fold both of your wire ends up so they are against your cord. Wrap the end of your wire around your ribbon, leaving one of the wire ends long.
Step 7: String one of your wooden beads.
Step 8: Use your jewelry tools to create a loop with the one wire end you left long.
Step 9: Open the loop you created and slide on your clasp.
Step 10: String all of your clay beads, adding wooden beads throughout.
Step 11: Repeat Steps 6-8 to finish off the end of your necklace.
See how easy that was?! You could create a bunch of these necklaces in different colors!
