Fabric-Wrapped Beaded Necklace

SUPPLIES & TOOLS:

• 1/4yd knit fabric
• Coordinating thread
• Sewing machine
• Serger (optional)
• Fabric scissors or rotary cutter and mat
• About 20 various sized wood beads from 1/2"-1" in diameter

DIRECTIONS:

1. Fold the knit fabric making sure the selvages are matched up. On the fold, cut a 3"x 29" strip. When unfolded, strip should measure 3"x 58".
2. Fold strip in half lengthwise with right sides together, making it 1 1/2"x 58". Cut a 2" triangle off each end, not on the fold. This will make a nice shape for the ties at the end of the necklace.
3. Strip is still folded in half with right sides together. Leaving a 1 1/2" hole about 5" from each end, serge or stitch along the 3 unfolded sides. If using a regular sewing machine, be sure to backstitch when starting and stopping.
4. Using one of the holes at the ends, flip the strip right side out.
5. Plan and arrange the pattern desired with the beads. Take the center bead and place it in the tunnel of the strip. Push it to the center of the strip and tie a knot on each side of the bead.
6. Take the next beads and put one in each hole of the tunnel. Guide the beads up to the knots just made. Tie another knot at the ends of these beads.
7. Repeat this process until the desired amount of beads are in the tunnel, about 19-21 beads is a good amount for the length of the 58" strip cut. Make sure a knot is at the end of the last beads.
8. Stitch the holes closed with a straight stitch.