Adding shells to your clay bead bracelet can elevate its beachy charm and create a unique, personalized accessory. Whether you're working with seashells, cowrie shells, or puka shells, this guide will walk you through the process of incorporating these natural elements into your handmade jewelry.
Gathering Your Materials:
Before you begin, collect the following items:
- Clay beads (handmade or store-bought)
- Shells of your choice
- Elastic cord or beading wire
- Scissors or wire cutters
- Jewelry pliers
- Small drill or needle (for shells without holes)
- Strong adhesive (optional)
Preparing Your Shells
Not all shells come ready to string. Here's how to prepare different types:
How to Put a Shell with One Hole on a Clay Bead Bracelet?
- Inspect the shell for any rough edges and sand them gently if needed.
- Clean the shell thoroughly and ensure it's completely dry.
- If the existing hole is too small, carefully enlarge it using a small drill.
How to Put a Seashell Bead on a Bracelet?
Some seashells come pre-drilled as beads. To use these:
- Sort your seashell beads by size and shape.
- Plan your bracelet design, alternating between clay beads and seashell beads.
- String the beads onto your chosen cord or wire.
How to Put a Cowrie Shell on a Bracelet?
Cowrie shells often require a different approach:
- Choose a cowrie shell with a natural opening along one side.
- Cut a small piece of wire, creating a loop that fits through the shell's opening.
- Secure the wire loop with pliers, creating a bail for stringing.
- Alternatively, use a strong adhesive to attach a bail directly to the shell's surface.
Now that your shells are prepared, it's time to create your bracelet:
- Cut your elastic cord or wire to the desired length, adding extra for knots or clasps.
- Begin stringing your clay beads, interspersing shells at regular intervals or in a pattern.
- For a balanced look, place larger shells as focal points and smaller shells as accents.
- If using wire, add crimp beads before and after each shell to keep them in place.
Shell Bracelet Tutorial:
Puka shells are popular for their natural, bohemian look. Here's how to incorporate them:
How to Put Puka Shells on a String?
- Sort your puka shells by size and color.
- Thread your cord through the natural hole in each puka shell.
- Alternate puka shells with clay beads for a varied texture.
- For a traditional look, string puka shells closely together without spacer beads.
How to Put a Puka Shell on a Bracelet as a Focal Point?
- Choose a larger or uniquely shaped puka shell as your centerpiece.
- String clay beads on either side of the puka shell, gradually decreasing in size.
- Add smaller shells or beads to complement the focal puka shell.
Finishing Your Bracelet
Once you've strung all your beads and shells:
- For elastic cord: Tie a secure knot and dab with clear nail polish or jewelry glue.
- For wire: Add a clasp using jump rings and pliers.
- Trim any excess cord or wire.
Caring for Your Shell and Clay Bead Bracelet
To keep your bracelet looking its best:
- Avoid exposing it to water, especially if you've used adhesive.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth.
- Restring periodically if using elastic cord, as it may stretch over time.
How to put a Shell on a Clay Bead Bracelet? Creating a shell and clay bead bracelet is a wonderful way to capture the essence of summer and beach memories in a wearable form. By following these steps and experimenting with different shell types and arrangements, you can craft unique, personalized jewelry that reflects your style and creativity. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a beginner, the combination of handmade clay beads and natural shells offers endless possibilities for beautiful, one-of-a-kind accessories.