How To Make A Cord Necklace

Periodically I need to make cord necklaces for my pendants.  This is how I make them...

What you'll need:

2mm nylon cording--you can get this at Hobby Lobby, JoAnn's, or online.  Look in the ribbon section.  I like to use black, but you can get some great looks from other colors.

Closures (AKA "End Crimps")--you can get these at Hobby Lobby, Michaels, or online.  I usually like to get them from Michaels, and I like the silver ones.

Barrel Clasp--you can get these at Hobby Lobby, Michaels, JoAnn's, online (etc.).  I prefer barrel clasps because I find they are easy to open and close, and when you buy a pack, the pieces in it are more likely to fit/work right than regular clasps.

Pliers -  For this project, I like to use flat jewelry pliers.

Now you're ready to go.


Step 1:
Cut your cording to length.  I usually like to make 18" necklaces, so I cut my cording to about 17 1/4".

Step 2:
Place one end of the cording into the closure (end crimp).  Be careful not to put the cording up by the loop.  Using your pliers close one side at a time over the end of the cording.  This takes some practice so if yours look smashed at first, don't give up.

Close up the other side too.  Both ends should be finished off.

Sometimes some of the cording will fray and peek out from the closed metal.  If this happens, just use a razor blade and cut it off (being careful not to cut the actual necklace cord or scratch the metal).

Step 3:
Using your pliers, open the loop on one side of the barrel clasp and hook it onto one end of the cord.  Then close up the wire loop so the clasp is secure.

Do the same thing to the other side of the clasp and necklace cord.  When you've finished, the necklace should make a complete circle.

Step 4:
Slide your pendant onto your necklace cord.  Voila!

We would love to see what pieces you make with your necklace cords, so send it pictures or comments.  Happy Creating!