One of my favorite gifts to make during the holidays is beaded bracelets.

They’re small but full of character, and each one feels unique depending on how you mix the beads.

Imagine handing a friend a bracelet with their initials spelled out or a child a charm with their favorite holiday symbol, it’s thoughtful, wearable, and endlessly customizable.

Materials Needed

• Elastic beading cord (1 mm thick, 1 roll)
• Assorted beads in red, green, white, and gold (at least 200 pcs, 6-8 mm size)
• Letter beads (to spell names or words like JOY/LOVE)
• Christmas-themed charms (snowflake, wreath, Santa, etc., 4-5 pcs)
• Scissors
• Super glue or clear nail polish

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Cut a piece of elastic cord about 8”-10” long, depending on wrist size.

Step 2: Plan your bracelet design. Lay out your beads in the pattern you want such as stripes, alternating colors, or a word spelled with letter beads.

Step 3: Thread the beads onto the cord, sliding on charms or specialty beads at intervals for extra flair.

Step 4: Once filled, tie a secure double knot and add a dab of super glue or clear nail polish on the knot to keep it from slipping.

Step 5: Trim excess cord, slip the bracelet onto your wrist, and admire your handmade sparkle.

Step 6: Repeat with different designs, you’ll quickly have a full festive set perfect for gifting!

Note:

I’ve found kids love making these themselves, so you could even turn this into a holiday craft activity before wrapping them as gifts.