DIY Project: Pearl Necklace
We got SO many emails and comments about Stephanie’s gorgeous necklace from her wedding that we featured the other day, we asked her to put together some simple instructions for us! How great is that! It’s pearly, it’s a little bit fancy, it’s all together FABULOUS!
Materials:
Everything I used for the necklace I got at Michael’s store. They have a great bead selection (certain stores more options than others- but I think you can also order online). I also got clasps that had multiple hooks or loops so that I would have more than one strand of beads coming from the one clasp. (I am not sure what those are referred to as). I found them on sale so the brand is not listed on Michael’s site, however, there are others that will substitute nicely. There are also plenty of bead shops and craft shops that I am sure would have great selections.
You can find the clear jewelry string (nylon- not stretchy) at Michaels, or fishing line from any local Target or Walmart store will suffice as well.
Instructions:
My basic philosophy in going into the necklace was that I wanted it to be eclectic and sweet- so, I stuck with jewels that matched my color scheme but still added a bit of spark every now and again. Since each strand connected to a different hook, I basically just started with one layer, and as I added more, made them slightly longer or slightly shorter to layer them one right on top of the other- After each layer I was sure to hold it up to my neck to make sure they were falling properly. If you want the necklace a bit fuller- you can add more than one strand of beads to each individual hook.
The great part about an eclectic necklace is that your strands don’t have to have even numbers and matching patterns. Each strand was unique to itself- however, it is good to continually try on the necklace and have an outside opinion to make sure it is flowing smoothly and looking good on your particular neckline. I also used this necklace as a “reception necklace”- so, I felt ok about making it a little more “fun” rather than “formal”.
I added a small chain to the back so that I could adjust the length of the necklace if desired.
I used pretty basic “necklace crafting technique” and just put in a little more time and patience to create the layers.
A helpful hint: When you tie knots at the ends when you are attaching the strands from one latch to another- after tying several knots to secure the beading- Cut off the excess clear string and use a lighter to burn the very tip of the string so that it shrivels up and creates a small lump of melted plastic. This helps to secure the knot from slipping loose as well as from creating an itchy point. Don’t get the fire too close (you only need to hold it near -not directly on)- or it will burn more than desired and snap some of the base knots as well.
* * *
If this is a little over your head, Stephanie (she is known as Stevie) would be happy to make you one! Just shoot me an email and I’ll forward it right along to her! abby {at} style me pretty {dot} com.
Thank you to Stevie and you Abby for getting this DIY project posted. We all have been dying for it!
How wonderful! I fell in love with that necklace when I first saw it and am excited to create my own version. Thank you so much!
Yay! Thanks for sharing.
Wow! Love, Love, Love this necklace! Thank you so much for sharing!
I think this is the best DIY project I've seen on SMP. So unique and I would have never thought it could be done! Thanks for sharing :)
Love this necklace! Can't wait to try to get one of my own, but was wondering how much Stephanie would charge for her time making such a thing?
[...] necklace? I do (no pun intended!). The good news is the bride herself, Stephanie, shared how she made it over at Style Me Pretty.You know you want one. Oh, and if you’re so inclined, feel free to [...]
AHhhHhh! I wish I hadn't already bought my jewelry our big day...I would totally make this (and actually get more than one use out of it!) Love...LOve...LOVE!
BTW...my sister is a Stephanie that goes by Stevie. Small world.
Thanks so much for posting the "how-to" I CANNOT wait to make my own version! :) Fabulous ALL AROUND wedding!! :)
Darn. Does this mean I have to make my own necklace? I am gonna have to because that is just stunning.
Thanks for sharing such a beautiful DIY project...I totally loved that the bride wore this necklace and have wanted to wear a similar statement piece at my own wedding/reception...of course I also need a little courage to pull it off! I will definately be creating my own version!
I was recommended to stop by and check out this necklace, and it's worth the trip. Beautiful design -- great photos as well -- way to go! :)
--Dave
(@Rings_Things on Twitter)
First, congrats to the bride ! She and the necklace are so very pretty! />
Thanks in advance for looking!
I'm doing something similar with vintage pieces, if any one is interested! I'm also open to making custom designs - I 'm stocking up on pearls and rhinestones :D Visit my shop on Etsy, if you'd like http://alexkeller.etsy.com
Gorgeous necklace!
[...] The Best Budget-Friendly Idea of the Week: Style Me Pretty – DIY Pearl Necklace [...]
How gorgeous!!! Thanks so much for sharing.
Soooo beautiful -- linked to these!
I absolutely love the necklace! Such an interesting combination of the beads....
I love this! It's so pretty and fun:) And, from what is pictured,that wedding dress is gorgeous as well.
I'd love to have a piece from Stephanie, since this one is so beautiful...wondering how much she'd charge. Maybe I'll e-mail you.
Thanks!
oh my gosh, i LOVE that necklace! such a creative and unique piece! thanks so much for putting this up
LOVE it. Here's yet another DIY inspiration! I've been meaning to get the beads out again and see what happens...lovin' this idea. Great job! Its lovely!
[...] Pearl Necklace via Style Me Pretty [...]
[...] my attention was her beautiful necklace, which was all her doing. Wanna know how she did it? Click HERE to go to Style Me Pretty and find [...]
[...] my attention was her beautiful necklace, which was all her doing. Wanna know how she did it? Click HERE to go to Style Me Pretty and find [...]
beautiful and elegant. stunning photos taken there too! love it, thanks
[...] via DIY Project: Pearl Necklace | Style Me Pretty : The Ultimate Wedding Blog. [...]
[...] Update: I just found another fabulous eclectic wedding necklace on Style Me Pretty! Check it out here! AKPC_IDS += "8496,";Popularity: 1% [...]
This really is a good project.. Thanks for the idea.