Great Lengths

Fashion Samantha Haydock's gorgeous ribbon necklaces using a mix of beads in toning colours

Samantha Haydock, Bead Exclusive

This necklace can be worn in a variety of lengths simply by tying the ribbon. it is also a great way of using up beads left over from a previous project

With so many types of beads to choose from, it can be hard to settle on which to use for any one project. This beautiful necklace gets around the problem with a multistrand design featuring different types on each individual wire, but all in shades of amethyst to prevent clashing. The ribbon ends tie at the back, allowing you to create various looks; experiment with different colourways to create the perfect match for your wardrobe.

Amethyst Necklace

1. Take a head pin and create a loop with the smallest part of round-nosed pliers. Repeat so that you have two. Cut 3m of nyloncoated wire into five equal lengths and thread them all through one crimp. Pass the strands through the loop on one of the head pins and back down the crimp, making the loop formed by the wires as small as possible. Squeeze firmly with flat-nosed pliers and trim any excess.
2. Thread the first strand with 15, 4mm bicones, five 6mm bicones, six 4mm bicones, five 6mm bicones, 10 4mm bicones, four 6mm bicones and five 4mm bicones. On the second, string 12 frosted amethyst seeds, a 4mm fire-polished bead, seven seeds, two 4mm firepolished beads, 16 seeds, one 8mm firepolished bead, 12 seeds, two 4mm fire-polished beads, 11 seeds, one 4mm fire-polished bead and seven seeds.
3. String the whole of the third strand with 4mm Miyuki cubes and the fourth using amethyst tumblechips. For the fifth wire, thread on a selection of 8mm and 10mm firepolished beads and Indian glass gems. Each string of beading needs to be about 15cm-18cm long. Group the ends together and thread a crimp onto all five strands.
4. Pass the ends through the loop of the other head pin and back down the crimp. It may help to thread one strand at a time and tug the tension through. Pull all ends so that the loop formed by the strands is as small as possible. Squeeze the crimp firmly and cut away any excess ends.
5. Snip the top off one of the head pins and thread on a 2.5mm metal bead, followed by a bell cap so that the dome covers the crimping. Add a 3mm metal bead, then hold the head pin with flatnosed pliers right above this so that there is no movement. Fold the pin 90 degrees and trim, leaving 1cm left. Create a loop with round-nosed pliers, then repeat for the other end of the necklace.
6. Link the loop of the head pin onto a silver clasp hoop, then repeat for the other side. Cut a 2m length of lilac organza ribbon in half. Fold 15cm over one end, pass the folded section through the hoop of one of the clasps, then pass the ends of the ribbon through this loop and pull taut. Tie the ribbon tightly and add a tiny drop of superglue to the knot to seal. Trim off the excess and repeat for the other side.
7. Thread a large-holed metal bicone over the ribbon ends and slide down as far as it will go, covering the knot. Use a head pin or the tip of round-nosed pliers to poke the ribbon through and repeat on the other end. The ribbon is tied in a bow at the back of the neck to secure.