Multi Strand Bracelet - Handmade Holidays & Giveaways

I started making these bracelets about 6 weeks ago and I can't stop.

Interested in making your own? Here is what you need:

• Various beads, I like to mix at least 3-5 types.
• Stretch magic elastic
• 2 10mm jump rings
• 6 Crimp tubes
• 6" length of ribbon
• Scotch tape
• Beading tray - not really required, but it helps

Step 1 - start planning out what you think you want to do with your 3 strands... Some things work, and some won't. Just keep playing with it - taking into account your desired length. I wanted one that was my wrist plus about 3/4".

Step 2- Cut 3 pieces of stretch magic that is the length of your finished bracelet plus about 3-4". Then secure one end with tape, this will keep the beads that your stringing on from falling off.

Step 3 - String the beads the onto the elastic, if you like, you can use a needle like this, it really helps get the beads onto the elastic.

Keep going and measuring along as you go. The beads will string different than they lay in the tray so sometimes what planned out to be 7" will string shorter or longer. When you get the length you want, tape the end while you move onto the other 2 strands.

Step 4 - Time to secure the ends of the bracelet to the jump rings.

Slide one of the crimp tubes to the elastic.

Then slide a jump ring onto the elastic.

Then loop the elastic over the ring and thread the end through the crimp tube again.

Sorry for the blurry picture, I hope you can see that I've tightened the elastic, tight but not too tight around the jump ring.

Then crimp.

You can either use pliers or a neat little tool like this. One notch crimps, the other folds it over on itself.

Then do the other end of the strand.

Repeat with the other 2 strands.

You'll see I added a little detail to this bracelet, a little word to inspire me...

Take your ribbon and fold it in half then thread the folded end through the jump rings. Pull the tail ends through your loop and you're bracelet is a bracelet.

You can secure it straight, or twist the strand prior to securing it with the ribbon.

I hope this tutorial inspires you to try one of your own - but if you LOVE love love one of the above bracelets and can't live without it... simply leave a comment here, and you'll be entered to win one of them! You've got 'till November 22nd at 6:00 pm to enter. If you'd like another chance, mention the giveaways on your blog on on twitter and leave a second comment.