When it comes to beaded necklaces, sometimes the length can be a bit too long for certain outfits or occasions. Fortunately, there are two ways to shorten a beaded necklace: temporarily or permanently. While temporary hacks can be a quick fix, they may not be the most practical solution in the long run. In this article, we will explore various methods for both temporary and permanent shortening of beaded necklaces.
Whether you want to keep the original length of your beaded necklace or permanently shorten it, this article has got you covered. By following our step-by-step instructions, you will learn how to achieve a polished look with your beaded necklace in no time.
Key Takeaways
- There are two ways to shorten a beaded necklace: temporarily or permanently.
- Temporary hacks may not be the most practical solution in the long run.
- This article will explore various methods for both temporary and permanent shortening of beaded necklaces.
How to Shorten a Beaded Necklace
Shortening a beaded necklace can be a quick and easy process, or it can require a bit more effort. It all depends on the method you choose. Here are some ways to shorten your beaded necklace:
Use a Ribbon
For a temporary solution, using a ribbon can be a great option. Simply fold your necklace into a u-shape and tie a ribbon on both ends. Use a brooch to fasten one side of the beads, and your shorter neckpiece is ready to wear. This method allows for experimentation with different ribbons to complement different outfits.
Restringing
Restringing a necklace requires a bit more effort but can be a permanent solution. Use a beading tray to remove the beads and keep the arrangement intact. Cut the clasp and its hoop with a wire snip and place it aside. Cut the string or wire to your desired length, make a knot on one end of your string, and start feeding your beads from the other end. Add a crimp bead to each side of the necklace where the clamp and hoop will go, return the clasp and the hoop to their respective sides, and snip the crimp beds until they are flat. Your necklace will be the same, only shorter.
Take out Some of the Beads
If you don’t mind losing some beads, this method can be a great option. Snip the necklace clasp to access the beads and remove the old crimp bead. Cut a few centimeters from the clasp to ensure you still have enough wire or silk string to work with. Remove some of the beads and place them aside. Slide a crimp bead into the wire or silk string, place your clasp next to the crimp bead with your wire having an extra length, feed the wire into the crimp bead and an extra bead, and snip the crimp bead gently until it’s flat. Put a crimp cover on your crimp bead for a finished look.
Make a Temporary or Permanent Bracelet from Your Beaded Necklace
For a quick temporary solution, fold your beaded necklace until it fits your wrists, use a safety pin or an earring to hold the strands in place, and rock your chunky bracelet. For a permanent solution, restring into a short length the size of the bracelet, make a bracelet with an arrangement of your choice using the same beads placed in a beading tray, put a clasp and tiny hoop on each side of the bead and fasten with a crimp bead on either side, and cover the crimp beads to achieve a professional look.
Necklace Shorteners
Necklace shorteners are designed to shorten necklaces. If you have a necklace display structure at home, you can use it. You can also use anything with a neck like a teddy bear. Place your beaded jewelry on a table horizontally and fold it into a u-shape. Take it and hang it on your dummy and open your silicon shortener. Hook it on the two ends of the folded necklace, and voila! You have a double-strand masterpiece. You can add a twist to this design by twisting the beads before hooking them on a shortener to make a chunky, single piece.
Just Use a Jeweler
If you want a professional touch or if your necklace is too complicated to shorten by yourself, a jeweler is the best option. Jewelers have the expertise to know what to do with damaged strings and bead arrangements and will give you a polished look. They can also offer permanent solutions like restringing and redesigning the necklace. It is the safest option, especially if your beads have sentimental memories for you.
Conclusion
Shortening a beaded necklace can be done in many ways, but it is important to choose the best option to avoid damaging the neckpiece. Permanent options such as knotting or cutting the string should be considered carefully before proceeding. Metal shorteners should be avoided as they can scratch and damage the beads. Instead, one can try creative tricks like using ribbon or elastic to achieve the desired length. Stephanie, a jewelry designer at SOQ Jewelry and other design companies, recommends exploring one’s creativity to achieve the perfect length for their beaded necklace. For more useful tips, readers can visit the website’s homepage or read other posts written by Stephanie for actionable advice on designs and brands.
