Step-by-Step Guide
The beaded Kumihimo braided lariat merges traditional Japanese circular foam-disk braiding with drop-shaped Magatama beads to produce a rich, snake-like rope necklace with textured dragon-scale fringe. Kumihimo uses eight individual weighted cord strands moved across numbered disk slots in a rhythmic diagonal sequence, trapping pre-strung beads securely into the center core of the braid. Long teardrop-shaped Magatama or petal beads rest diagonally against the braided cord, forming an overlapping, textured surface that resembles natural reptile scales or pinecones. The open lariat format omits rigid metal clasps, allowing the supple beaded rope to be tied in a relaxed infinity loop or draped loosely over the shoulders for versatile styling.
Begin by cutting eight equal six-foot lengths of heavy micro-cord (such as Superlon Tex 210) and stringing sixty size 11/0 seed beads followed by forty angled Magatama drop beads onto each individual cord. Secure the beads on each cord with plastic bobbins to prevent tangling, gather all eight strands together, and tie a secure overhand knot at one end. Mount the knot into the center hole of a round foam Kumihimo disk, positioning two cord strands in the top, bottom, left, and right numbered quadrants. Braid an un-beaded half-inch base by moving the top-right cord down to the bottom-right slot, and the bottom-left cord up to the top-left slot, rotating the disk ninety degrees after each cycle. Slide one bead down into the center braiding intersection on each cord movement, trapping the glass drops into the twisting core. Continue the braiding sequence until all beads are woven, finish with a half-inch un-beaded tail, tie off the cords with tight jeweler’s binding wire, and cap the ends with decorative tassel cones.
Idea 7: Multi-Layered Peyote Stitch Stacking Rings with Bicone Crystals
Execution Process
Multi-layered peyote stitch stacking rings with bicone crystals bring high-precision micro-mosaic beadwork to delicate, everyday ring bands. This technique combines a smooth, low-profile tubular peyote inner band crafted from durable 11/0 cylinder beads with an embellished outer surface of three-millimeter Swarovski or Preciosa faceted crystal bicones. The inner cylinder band sits flush against the skin, providing maximum comfort and preventing metal band resizing issues, while the exterior crystal row reflects light with brilliant sparkle. Creating a set of three coordinating bands in champagne, rose gold, and clear AB crystals allows for chic stacking combinations that deliver the brilliance of fine gemstone eternity bands with the durability of woven glass.