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! 🙂