wooden bead key chains & necklaces

wooden bead key chains

There’s a misconception in DIY land that a craft must be difficult in order to be awesome. Not true. Just take a look at these wooden bead key chains and necklaces made by stringing beads onto leather cords. In fact, they are so easy to make, I could end this post right here. One paragraph. But that would be weird, so I’ll walk you through the steps. 

(Affiliate links included for your convenience. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases. See disclosure here.)

supplies needed

step one – paint the beads

I used toothpicks to hold the beads tightly while I painted them. Most beads required 3 toothpicks each stuffed snugly into its hole to keep it stationery. After painting, I stuck the “skewered” bead into a piece of styrofoam while it dried.

wooden bead key chains

wooden bead key chains

wooden bead key chains

step 2 – assemble the key chain

For the wooden bead key chains, cut a piece of leather cording about 12″ in length. Attach it to a split key ring with a sturdy knot.

wooden bead key chains

Next, run both pieces of leather through the beads in any arrangement you like. For the smallest bead on the end, I was only able to run one piece of leather through the tiny hole. Make a firm knot at the bottom, and trim the leather cords to desired length.

wooden bead key chains

wooden beads

step 3 – assemble the necklace

For a necklace, cut the leather cord about 40″ in length. String beads onto the leather. Make a knot on either side of the bead arrangement to keep them stationary. Tie the ends of the leather cord together to complete the necklace.

wooden bead key chains

wooden bead key chains

Like this craft? Share it on Pinterest!

wooden beads

 

Comments · 9

  1. I love chunky necklaces like this, I have one i made a few years ago that I’ve not worn for ages. I think I must look it out asap and maybe make a few more in different colours too.

  2. I love your keychains. I do like a chunky keychain, it makes it easier for me to find my keys in my bag as I hunt round. Sometimes the easiest crafts are the best!

Leave a Reply