Adjustable Macrame Bead Bracelets

What is Macrame?

Many people aren’t familiar with the word macrame, but once they understand what it is they realize how common it really is. Macrame is a form of basic weaving where knots are used as decorative as well as binding elements instead of interlacing different strands of material. The friendship bracelets common among children and teenagers are a form of macrame, and this weaving technique can be used for many different things, including woven necklaces, baskets, pot holders, shawls, and more. Because it is a simple technique to learn, there are many types of macrame bracelets available, and even non-crafty people can easily learn to make their own designs.

Designs for Adjustable Macrame Bead Bracelets

Bead bracelets are popular fashion accessories because they can easily be personalized and are suitable for many different wardrobes. Adjustable bracelets, in particular, come in a wide range of designs, depending on two main factors: the cords and the beads.

Cords

The cords used in macrame bracelets can vary widely. Many materials are popular, including:

• Silk threads such as embroidery floss
• Leather or suede cords
• Thick silk cords
• Solid color or variegated yarn
• Hemp or other natural fibers

Which type of cord is used will help determine the type of bracelet – silk cords, for example, are best for more elegant designs, while leather or suede strips work well with thicker, more natural bracelets. A bracelet may rely on a single cord (generally a thicker material), or several cords could be knotted, braided, or twisted together for more elaborate bracelets.

Beads

Any types of beads can be used for macrame bracelets, but certain types of beads are more popular than others. The beads should fit smoothly on the cords, and some beads may need larger holes so they can be strung on more than one cord simultaneously. Popular bead choices include:

• Alphabet block beads for personalization
• Natural stones, shells, or wood for a bohemian look
• Elongated beads with intricate designs to serve as a focal point
• Charms or other themed beads
• Turquoise, jade, or other Native American accents
• Seed beads for delicate accents on thin cords
• Glass or polished crystal beads
• Plastic beads in bright colors or unique shapes

Beads can be arranged in many ways, including symmetrical patterns or random designs. Many macrame bracelets use elaborate knots to space out beads or to add additional texture to the design, or the knots may be simple spacers to give uniformity to an eclectic creation.

How Bracelets Adjust

Slip knot adjustable bracelet.

Macrame designs are easily adjustable because they do not have attached ends like clasp bracelets or bangles. Instead, the ends of the bracelet strap are left open so the wearer can adjust the size to fit their wrist. To keep the ends from fraying, they may have a final knot, dab of glue, or beaded cap in place. Some adjustable macrame bead bracelets may use overlapping cords that result in a double cord along the back (non-decorated) part of the bracelet – the size can then be modified by changing what amount of cord is doubled through a slip knot or loop in the weaving.

Adjustable bracelets are perfect surprise gifts between friends because one friend can buy or purchase a bracelet without needing to know the exact size. They can also last for years as individuals’ wrist sizes change, ensuring that the friendship and the symbolism of the bracelet is not limited to one size. This also makes it easy for friends to exchange bracelets and change their styles on a whim without needing new jewelry every time, or even to switch the bracelets to anklets if desired.

Finding Macrame Bracelets

Many online retailers offer macrame bead bracelets in a range of colors and styles using different cords, beads, and configurations. Bracelets often cost under $10 even for elaborate designs, and many styles are available for $5 or less. Popular retailers include:

• Fire Mountain Gems and Beads
• Dakota Thunder
• The Moose is Loose Gifts

Because macrame is an easy craft to learn, it is possible to create handmade bracelets in next to no time with only simple materials. The cost of a project is often only one or two dollars, and the personal investment will make it even more meaningful. Instructions and materials lists can be found on the following websites:

• MakingFriends.com
• It’s a String Thing

Adjustable macrame bead bracelets are a fun type of jewelry to wear as well as to make. With many options for personalization, it is no surprise that these bracelets have been weaving friendships for generations.