Easy DIY Macrame Crystal Necklace
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Supplies Needed
- Preparing the Embroidery Floss
- Creating the Base of the Necklace
- Tying the Overhand Knots
- Adding the First Row of Knots
- Adding Subsequent Rows of Knots
- Customizing the Size of the Pouch
- Dividing the Strands and Adding Beads
- Braiding the Strands
- Tying Off the Ends
- Adding the Crystal and Securing the Bead
- Conclusion
How to Make an Interchangeable Macrame Crystal Necklace
Hey guys, it's me Crystal from Marching North, and today I'm going to show you how to make an interchangeable macrame crystal necklace. This DIY project is fun and easy, and it allows you to customize your necklace with different crystals depending on your mood or outfit. Plus, the macrame design adds a trendy and bohemian touch to your accessories collection. So let's get started!
Introduction
In this tutorial, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating an interchangeable macrame crystal necklace. You'll learn how to tie basic macrame knots, create a pouch to hold the crystal, and add a braided section to complete the necklace. With this technique, you can easily switch out the crystal to match your style or energy for the day.
Supplies Needed
Before we begin, let's gather all the supplies we'll need for this project. Here's a list of what you'll need:
- DMC six-strand embroidery floss (color: ecru)
- Beeswax candle (optional for waxing the thread)
- Wooden bead
- Large-eye needle
- Scissors
Make sure you have all these supplies ready before we proceed to the next step.
Preparing the Embroidery Floss
First, I recommend waxing the embroidery floss before starting. This step is optional, but it will make the thread more durable and easier to work with. To wax the floss, simply rub it along the side of a beeswax candle. Alternatively, you can purchase pre-waxed thread if you prefer.
Once you've waxed the thread, cut four pieces of embroidery floss, each measuring 48 inches long. This will be the base of your necklace.
Creating the Base of the Necklace
To start, take one piece of floss and fold it in half to find the center. Lay it on your desk. Next, take another piece of floss and thread it through the loop of the first piece, linking them together. Repeat this process with the remaining two pieces of floss, creating a chain of linked loops.
Tying the Overhand Knots
Now that our threads are linked, we can start tying the knots. Begin by grabbing one of the cords and tying an overhand knot about a half inch away from the center. To tie an overhand knot, make a loop and bring the end through the loop, then tighten it. Repeat this on the opposite side with the other two ends of the same cord. Make sure to keep the knots even with each other.
Adding the First Row of Knots
With the first set of knots in place, we can move on to the next row. Take the left cord from one knot and the right cord from the adjacent knot and tie an overhand knot between them, about a half inch away from the previous row. Repeat this process with the other pairs of cords until you have four knots in the second row, evenly spaced.
Adding Subsequent Rows of Knots
Continue adding rows of knots, maintaining the same distance between each row. You can choose to space the rows closer or further apart depending on the size of the crystals you plan to use. Test fitting the crystals as you go will help you achieve the desired size of the pouch. Aim for a pouch length of at least two inches to accommodate various crystal sizes.
Customizing the Size of the Pouch
If the pouch is not long enough to fit your largest crystal, you can add another row of knots to make it larger. On the other hand, if you plan to use smaller crystals, you can reduce the number of rows. This customizable aspect of the necklace allows you to create a perfect fit for your collection of crystals.
Dividing the Strands and Adding Beads
Once you're satisfied with the size of the pouch, divide the strands into two sections. Tie an overhand knot with all the cords on one side, approximately half an inch away from the last row of knots. Repeat this on the other side, making sure to match the placement of the knots. These knots will secure the braided sections of the necklace.
Next, thread the cords through a wooden bead using a large-eye needle. Slide the bead down to where the crystal pouch is located. The bead will hold the crystal in place, allowing you to easily slide it in and out.
Braiding the Strands
Now it's time to braid the strands to create a stylish and secure closure for the necklace. Group two cords together on one side and leave the remaining two cords for the other side. Braid the cords using a three-strand braid technique. Be sure to intertwine the two cords that you're holding together with the third cord. Continue braiding until you reach the desired length for the closure.
Tying Off the Ends
To finish off the braided sections, tie an overhand knot at the base of each braid. Cut off any excess cord. Repeat the same process on the other side of the necklace.
Adding the Crystal and Securing the Bead
Now it's time to add your chosen crystal to the pouch. Simply slide the bead up, place the crystal inside the pouch, and slide the bead back down. The bead will hold the crystal securely in place. You can easily change out the crystal by sliding the bead up, removing the crystal, and inserting a new one.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully created your own interchangeable macrame crystal necklace. Have fun experimenting with different crystals and enjoy wearing your unique and versatile accessory. Don't forget to share your creations with me by leaving a comment below. Happy crafting!
Highlights
- Learn how to make an interchangeable macrame crystal necklace
- Easy-to-follow tutorial with step-by-step instructions
- Customize the size of the pouch to fit your crystals
- Secure closure with braided sections
- Versatile design allows for easy swapping of crystals
- Adds a trendy and bohemian touch to your accessories collection
FAQ
Q: Can I use different colors of embroidery floss for the necklace?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different colors to match your style and personal preferences. It's a great way to add a pop of color to your accessory.
Q: How long does it take to make the necklace?
A: The time required to make the necklace will depend on your skill level and the chosen crystal design. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Q: Can I make the necklace longer or shorter?
A: Yes, you can modify the length of the necklace by adjusting the number of rows of knots and the braided sections. Just make sure to test fit your crystals to achieve the desired length.