Homemade Braided Necklaces

Braiding is the intertwining of strands, a design most commonly used with hair. Other materials, however, can also be braided. Rope, leather laces, strings of beads and ribbon can all be braided to create elegant and fun jewelry pieces. Homemade braided necklaces allow for much creativity. Jewelry fixing and embellishments can be added to braids to create unique styles.

Rope Necklaces

Nylon rope is found is a variety of colors and widths. Three or four different cords of the same or varying styles can be braided together to create a necklace. Beads can be added to all or any of the ropes before or after braiding. Pendants can also be slipped onto the braided rope. Tie the ends together with a knot or attach a claw clasp to secure the pieces together. Braided rope pieces can be created and worn as chokers or dangling necklaces.

Leather Necklaces

Leather cording or lace can be braided together to create a decorative necklace suitable for both males and females. The leather is sold in a variety of colors and can be found online and at craft stores. Soft suede string is similar in appearance, but is easier to handle and manipulate. Leather cording and suede string can be braided using different techniques, including box braiding. Beads, buttons and even hardware pieces can be incorporated to the strands during the braiding for an added touch.

Beaded Necklaces

Three or more strands of beads can be braided together to create a necklace. You can choose to purchase strands already beaded or bead strands of your own, then braid them together. The strands are held together with a clasp. Braids can be permanently affixed or you can create necklaces in which the braids can be taken apart and worn separately when desired.

Ribbon Necklaces

Satin ribbon is another material option for braided necklaces. Narrow to medium width ribbon can be joined together with a knot or jewelry fixing and then braided. Beads and other embellishments can be strung onto the ribbon before or after braiding. Consider loose and tight braids to create different looks and styles.