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Two-Strand Bracelet

Dwyn Tomlinson

This pretty bracelet makes good use of a mix of Czech Fire Polish beads. This Aqua/Peridot/Crystal blend is very spring-like, but you can try other colors for a different look.

This two strand bracelet uses clamshell tips to connect to the clasps.

Traditionally, clamshell tips were used with knotted pearl necklaces. Strung on a heavy silk cord, the end knot fit neatly inside the tip. But the clamshell tip works well for the lighter weight but very strong modern beading threads. To make the knot big enough, you need to tie the thread around a small bead that is then trapped inside the clamshell tip.

Supplies

2 clamshell tips
1 toggle clasp
2 x 2 mm metal bead or seed beads
2 x 4 mm metal beads
50 x 4 mm Fire Polish beads
25 x 6 mm Fire Polish beads
10 x 8 mm Fire Polish beads
A selection of beads to string 2 x approx 7-7.5 inches. This bracelet uses 4, 6 and 8 mm Czech firepolish beads in Peridot, Aquamarine, and Crystal Clear. Some have an Aurora Borealis (AB) finish that give an iridescent effect. Arrange your beads in a long pile, about 7 inches long. Arrange so that you have a pleasing color combination. I like to string the beads randomly. You can choose to do a regular pattern if you like.
Braided bead thread, such as Power Pro
Cutters (I use my wire cutters to cut this very strong, very tough thread. Special cutters can be purchased. This stuff is strong!)
Fine needles (#10 beading needles).
Chain nose pliers
Round nose pliers

Making the Bracelet

Start with enough thread for both strands, about a yard.

Thread a 2mm bead to the center of the strand, and then fold it in half. (This bead needs to be small enough to fit inside the clamshell).

Thread both ends through the clamshell tip. Orient it so that the clam part will close over the 2 mm bead

Thread both strands through one 4mm bead.

Separate the threads

String the beads randomly until you have about 7 inches. Check that the finished bracelet (including the clasp) will be long enough.

Add the other 4 mm metal bead

Add the other clamshell tip, facing outward.

Add the other 2 mm bead

String the other thread with beads until you have the same length. You may have to change the last few beads for different sizes in order to get the length right.

Thread through 4 mm metal bead.

Thread through the clamshell tip

Do not thread through the 2 mm bead.

Knot the two strands together using a surgeons' knot. (see below) One strand is through the 2 mm bead, one is not. Tie the knot again for extra security.

The knot will be on the outside of the bead, and will not pull back through the hole in the clamshell tip because of the bead.

Seal the knot with a drop of glue (Hypo-tube Cement) or clear nailpolish.

Tip! Put a scrap of plastic, perhaps an empty bead package, under the knot while you apply the sealer, so that drips do not ruin your work surface.

Thread the ends back down through the clam shell tip and into the beads of the bracelet for 3-4 beads. Cut the ends off close to the bracelet strands. (It is far easier to do this before closing the clam.)

Now to close the clamshell tips.

Hold the clamshell tip between your forefinger and thumb.

Hold the strand of beads tightly in the palm of your hand using your ring and little finger.

Use the chain nose pliers to squeeze the "clam" shut.

The clam is closed, with the bead and knot inside.
Use the round nose pliers to curve the hook a little, …
and then add the clasp, …
and finish closing up the hook.

Do the same at the other end, and attach the other half of the toggle clasp.

And there you have it - your finished two-strand bracelet! Wear and enjoy, and be prepared to make them for your friends too when they want to buy it!

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