Fashionable jewelry doesn’t have to be expensive or the basic costume jewelry you see on the racks at the local clothing store. With just a few dollars invested and a little bit of time, you can make your own pieces to complement your wardrobe. This great fabric necklace is perfect for business, casual, or even that little black dress depending on your fabric choices. The possibilities are endless and here you can learn the basics to get started!

Fabric Necklace

Supplies needed:

• 1 strip of fabric approximately 3” wide and 42” long
• 15 wooden beads of varying sizes (no more than ¾” around)
• 2 pieces of ribbon approximately 12” long
• Needle, thread, scissors (and sewing machine if available)

Begin by folding your strip of fabric lengthwise so the backside of the fabric is out. Sew the two edges of the fabric together forming a long tube of fabric, leaving both ends open. Turn the tube right side out. This is the most tedious part of the entire project.

Once the tube is turned right side out, insert a wooden bead (select the largest size that will fit into your tube). Find the center of the tube and create a knot on each side of the bead.

Continue adding beads on each side of the center, knotting in between, and reducing the size of beads as you go. Leave approximately 1 ½” after the last bead is inserted and do not knot.

When you have reached the end and your last bead is inside, fold about ¾” of fabric inside and slip the end of your ribbon into the tube. Run the fabric and ribbon through the sewing machine to close up the tube and secure the ribbon. Once sewn, add a final knot above the last bead. This should fall so the ribbon is within the knot as well.

To finish the necklace off, add a small bead to the end of each ribbon and tie a knot large enough to secure the bead. Make this in several colors and fabrics. Add beads to the outside or pendants to hang from the center or even fabric flowers! Enjoy with all your favorite clothing, business or casual!