Since my “lost earring necklace” worked out, I got brave enough to try one of the cute button necklaces I’ve been seeing everywhere! I decided to go with black buttons, so first I went through my stash and put these in a pile. Next, I made a new pile with the ones that were ½ to ¾ inches in diameter. Finally, I sorted out the ones that had the most interesting designs, and I was ready to go.
Here’s the tutorial for my version of this fun craft:
- Cut three strands of cord 48 inches long. I used hemp cord from Michaels, where I also purchased a package of bracelet closures and crimp beads.
- Thread the strands through a bracelet bar closure and pull it to the middle. (Click on the red collage for a larger view.) Clamp the cords 4 inches from the bar closure. This is where you will start adding buttons.
- Separate the first of the six strands of cording. Slide on the first button and tie it at the back with a simple slip knot. Keep adding buttons, evenly spaced, until you get to within five inches of the end. Repeat with the other five strands.
- Stretch the strands back out and knot the ends. Then add a crimp bead at each end and attach these to the circle closure.
- You’re done . . . enjoy! Oh, and please check out this adorable button necklace (with earrings!) at The Bead Den. I discovered it right after I made mine, and I LOVE it! ♥


I think you are the creative shot in the arm that I needed. I have been in a creative slump for months! Thanks for another great idea!
What a sweet thing to say!!! I think I’m going a little crazy trying new things now that my life is simpler and I have more time. But it sure is fun!
Too cute – and I bet they make a great sound! Makes me want a button charm bracelet!
Thank you! They do rattle nicely! And a bracelet would be adorable! Hope to see one on your blog someday!
Just to cute for words
Aren’t you sweet! I haven’t worn it yet though . . . probably tomorrow!
Try threading the buttons on jewellery elastic. The buttons space themselves and you then just stretch it over your head or twist a couple of times for a chunky bracelet.
I LOVE that idea! I’m not too good with the little jewelry fasteners, so I was thinking of just making the next one long enough to slip over the head and tying it at the back, but I like your plan better. Thank you!
Cuuuute!
Thank you!!!
Another great idea! Love it!
Thank you! And I’m glad I could link to your great post for a different technique, too! I appreciate it!
I think we have started a button craft frenzy. Just noticed a lot of button projects up the last few days. hehehe…
Fun!!!
I’ve been wanting to try this technique too. After a friend came back from vacation in SC with a pearlized button necklace. Very good!
Thank you! Others have suggested using elastic thread to avoid having to put on the closure . . . I might try that next time! Have fun with yours and I hope to see it on your blog!
Reblogged this on My Devon and commented:
For anyone that makes jewellery this is a great way to create necklaces or bracelets.
Absolutely beautiful! and well made too
don’t worry for your laces, they are packed and ready to go, but I think I’ll do the mailing next week as these days are hectic!
Thank you! And I have the perfect project (I hope!!!) waiting to showcase the laces but lots of others to do before then so no worries at all! And I love your new blog post idea!
Oh you are too kind! thanks for the feedback! I’ll let you know when they are mailed
I love your necklace! I have jars of buttons just waiting to be re-purposed…thanks for the idea and very clear instructions.
You’re very welcome! I can’t wait to see yours!
What a wonderful idea – thank you so much for sharing!
Years ago there was a button crazy in my area, and I made a few bracelets using the elastic method. I’ve still got leftover buttons, and have been wondering what to do with them… now I know!
A special thank you for being the first visitor over at CurlsnSkirls!
You’re very welcome! I hope you’ll post your *jewels* after you make them! Have fun! And I’m looking forward to following your blog!
Boy, have I been having fun with this one! You can read about it, and see my new necklaces on my blog. Thanks again!
http://curlsnskirls.wordpress.com/2012/07/13/repurposing-a-button-stash/#more-163
LOVE!!!!!!!!
Now I know what to do with all my grandmother’s buttons!! Thanks for sharing!
You’re very welcome! My buttons are from my grandmother, too!
Be sure to let me know if you write a post about your creation so I can admire it!
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I love this!
Thank you! And thanks for stopping by! I always LOVE seeing the outfits you put together!
Thanks – have a fan-tab-u-lous weekend. I am going to try the necklace this fall when I spend more time indoors!
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Thanks for visiting by blog. I love to mix recyclables in my jewelry designs, and use buttons for loop type clasps often, but this is a fun way to use lots of buttons.
http://archipelagojewelry.wordpress.com/
Your jewelry is beautiful! And I love the idea of using a button for a clasp . . . thank you!