Lovely Lariat Necklace
The lariat style necklace will allow you to make the neck piece as long or as short as you'd like. Create dangles using Swarovski crystals or Czech glass beads in a floral motif, or your favorite coordinating gemstones.
Level:
Easy (pre-made clasp),
Intermediate (make own clasp)
Materials
22" bulk chain with medium to large links
Swarovski crystals, Czech beads or gemstones
2-3" sterling head pins
20-22g sterling wire or S hook clasp that will fit through the links on the chain
Create wrapped loop dangles using beads and headpins, attaching the dangles directly to one end of the chain. Space dangles along 1-2" of chain as desired, creating a large cluster of dangles. I recommend between 7 and 12 dangles to get a good, full effect. (Easy method: Use small jump rings to attach dangles to the chain.)
Clasp: Attach the pre-made S hook clasp or create your own using the 20-22g wire.
To make a clasp, take the smallest end of a round nosed pliers and create a tiny loop in the end of the wire. Using the larger end of the pliers, create a half-loop in the opposite direction about 1cm from the tiny loop. Bring the end of the wire past the open end of the half-loop and cut approximately 1.5cm from the base of the opening. Create a closed loop at the end of the wire.
Attach clasp to the opposite end of the chain from the dangles by opening the closed loop or using a small jump ring.
To wear your necklace, wrap the chain around your neck and hook the clasp in any link near the dangle end.
