Jewelry Basics: Dangle Necklace

A few weeks ago I began a series called "Jewelry Basics" and I told you all about what tools and findings are needed to make jewelry. It's time to put those supplies to good use. I will be doing several necklace tutorials demonstrating techniques. Each necklace is a sort of Anthropologie/ModCloth inspired piece, but you can use the techniques to make any style you want.


This tutorial shows you a basic dangle technique you can use to make a myriad of pieces.

Materials need:
Basic chain
Decorative chain if desired
Clasp
Jump rings
Head pins
Beads
Round nose pliers
Regular pliers
Wire cutters

Begin by cutting a desired length of chain. I chose to use several inches of basic chain to hang the bead dangles on, and the rest the fancier chain making the total length of my necklace 19.5 inches.

To make the dangles, put one bead on the head pin.

Using round nose pliers bend the wire sideways...

...then use your other hand to turn the wire to opposite direction, making a hook. This takes a little bit of practice.

Attach the bead to the chain, and use wire cutters to clip the extra wire. Use round or regular pliers to close the hook.

Repeat until you have the desired amount of dangles. Hang them all directions on the chain.

If you are going to attach the basic chain to something else follow this next step: attach a jump ring to the end of the chain by using pliers to pull it apart. Slip the chain or clasp on (see below) and close the ring.

Use the same technique to attach a clasp.

And you are done! This technique can be used to make bracelets too. (My fireworks bracelet is one example).

I would love to see what you make using this technique. Email me and I would love to feature you! (aubreelarsen@gmail.com)

If you are interested in purchasing this one-of-a-kind piece, you can find it in my Etsy Shop. There will only be this one, so hurry!

I will be linking up to these parties.