A reader wrote asking how to measure multi-strand necklaces.  We thought others may share her question so we are covering that topic in this column.

If you are making a bracelet, all strands should be the same length.  If you are beading a piece for yourself, measure your wrist or neck.  Add 1/2 to 3/4 inch to your wrist size for the bracelet.  If you are making a bracelet to sell, the standard length is 7 inches.  However, this bracelet size will be too small for a larger woman.  Many women wear an 8 inch bracelet.

Multiple strands for chokers that fit high on the neck are all the same length.  This type of choker is the hardest type of jewelry to measure.  The choker must be an exact fit.  Too large and it will slide down the neck.  Too small and it will be uncomfortable.  Most chokers are adjustable.  Frequently a piece of extender wire will be put on the end of the necklace to allow for various lengths.

  Picture of beaded extender wire.

The general rule for multi-strand necklaces is the longer the necklace, the longer the length between strands.  For example, a 15 inch strand sits right about at the nape of the neck.  An inch between strands is more than sufficient (lengths of 15, 16 and 17 inches).  On the other hand, you could design a 23 inch necklace with strands about 2 1/2 longer than each other (23, 26 1/2, 30). 

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