Multi-Strand Mother's Bracelet
The trick with creating multiple strand bracelets is to get the strands the same length. Especially when creating name bracelets, this can be tricky if the names are not the same length! I've outlined some tips below that should help you in creating multi-strand Mother's bracelets - my example was for a three-strand bracelet.
Materials
Sterling letter cube beads
Sterling saucers, enough to fit between each letter of names
Assorted beads, stones and crystals
Crimps
Multi-strand spacer bars
Multi-strand ends or cones (optional)
Toggle clasp (can use multi-strand or single strand end)
Crimps
Beading wire
Measure and cut three lengths of beading wire 3" longer than the length of your finished bracelet. Beginning with the longest name (for my example, it was Aiden), string letter cubes, using saucers between cubes. The saucers will make the cubes sit more evenly on the wearer's wrist. Put this strand aside (may want to use a binder clip or bead stopper at the ends to prevent beads from slipping off.)
On the other wires, string additional names in same manner. In my example, I only had two names, but the customer wanted pearls and crystal in the center strand. I strung the pearls and crystals just like another series of letter beads, matching the length of the first name.
Lay out all wires next to each other on the table, centering names on the wires. Generally, the oldest child's name is on the top strand, going downward to the youngest. If you have names of different lengths, align the centers of each name vertically - the D in Aiden is aligned with the V in Ava in my bracelet.
Add additional beads to the wires with the shorter names until you have beads on all strands that take up the same amount of space, and are the same length as the longest name. Add beads to both sides of the name, keeping it centered. One trick is to use all 5mm beads (same size as most sterling cubes) and add in the same number of saucers as are in the longest name. If you are using beads of varying sizes or beads that will naturally be a little "off" (like freshwater pearls) in your design, this can be tricky - don't get discouraged, just work with it.
When all strands have equal lengths of beads, add one additional bead to all ends so that you are one bead "out" from the longest name's letter cubes.
String a multiple strand spacer bar on all three wires at both ends. The spacer bars will keep the strands from twisting or flopping. Keep the spacer bar flush against the beads, and be sure the beads remain centered on the wires.
Continue to design your bracelet strands, adding at least 2 additional spacer bars to hold the strands together. Again, work with your design to be sure the spacers are straight and the lengths of beads are even on all strands.
When the bracelet is the desired length, finish using a multi-strand end, a cone, or simply attach to the toggle. Because of the weight of the bracelet, I recommend using multiple crimps to finish the bracelet - one per strand if attaching to ends or multi-strand toggle.
Multiple strand bracelets are generally a little tighter fitting than a single strand bracelet; fitting more like a cuff. Your (or your customer's) preference will dictate the length, but keep in mind that you may need a longer bracelet for a looser fit due to the number and size of beads.
