Classic Pearl Breast Cancer Awareness Bracelet
Simple, elegant and pretty, this bracelet is perfect for anyone who wants to show their support for breast cancer awareness and research. Because its base is made of stretchy material, it's easy to put on and perfect for any age. I love using Swarovski pearls because they are perfectly uniform in size, shape and color, and the Swarovski crystal center gives them a better feel than other imitation pearls. I also recommend using an oval jump ring to attach charms because they are less likely to inadvertently come off the bracelet, but will open if the charm gets caught on anything.
Level: Beginner
Materials
6mm pink Swarovski pearls (24)
10.0 white seed beads (26)
6mm Bali beads (2)
Sterling silver awareness ribbon charm
4mm oval jump ring
Stretch Magic
Optional: Fast drying clear glue
I leave my Stretch Magic on the spool until I am done stringing beads so that my beads don't fall off one end. If you prefer to cut a length, cut approximately 12 inches and secure one end using tape or a binder clip.
Open the jump ring using a twisting motion (never open jump rings by spreading the ends apart). Attach the jump ring to the charm. Close the jump ring securely and set aside.
String one seed bead and one pearl. Repeat the pattern until you have strung 13 seed beads and 12 pearls. String one of the Bali beads. Continue stringing alternating seed beads and pearls until you have 7 seed beads and 6 pearls strung. String the ribbon awareness charm on the bracelet. Follow with the pattern of the remaining pearls and seed beads. Finish with the second Bali bead.
If you have not cut the Stretch Magic from the spool, you can do it now. Make sure you leave a tail at both ends of the bracelet that are about 2 inches long so that you can tie easily. Tie the ends using a square knot (I make at least 3 knots) and test for security. Add a drop of glue if you would like — make sure to hold the beads away from the knot until the glue is dry so the beads don't get glue on them.
Clip excess Stretch Magic close to the knot. Hide the knot inside the Bali bead. You may need to use a piece of wire or a round nosed pliers to help push it into the bead opening.
