Childlike, chunky, fun: beaded necklaces
BY GRACE MILLER PHOTOS BY AMIR PHILLIPS
From the early days of beaded jewelry craft kits found at local craft stores, like A.C. Moore, to the modernized versions by the brand Simple Trendy Modern Touch (STMT) at Target today, this nostalgic form of expression is making a comeback. Since becoming mainstream, expressional jewelry and materials for beaded necklaces can be found at many major retailers, including—and perhaps most abundantly on—Etsy. From necklaces to earrings, Etsy offers an impressive number of personalized
jewelry options, such as specific zodiac signs, monograms, phrases, and more. However, if one is looking for an alternative to buying these popular pieces online or in stores, try creating them at home. With personal ideation, one may be able to create varieties that are more personal and not sold in stores. To start, try coming up with a list of three ideas for creative beaded necklaces that fit into the lives of any college student. This could be a name, a school, a favorite saying, or a favorite word; the options are endless.
MATERIALS: 1. Beads of choice (letters, ones of different colors, shapes, and sizes) 2. Bead/jewelry cord 3. Craft or regular scissors 4. Ruler
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