My obsession with braided bracelets continues. This one was for my friend, Jen, who like kitschy, vintagey stuff as much as I do, and I thought these buttons were just meant to be made into a bracelet for her. They are interspersed with vintage crystal beads and mother of pearl.
Here is another that I've made for a friend, with all natural gemstones.
Planning the color themes is as much fun as weaving the beads. I usually pull out a handful of things I like to use as inspiration for the rest of the bracelet, but I don't actually lay it all out and plan it ahead. Instead I use the few inspiration beads as a jumping off point and mix and match from them as I go along.
Often, the piece that forms the design is the button clasp. Like this one. You just can't go wrong with a vintage rhinestone button, can you?
They are so lovely! I have searched and searched for authentic amber beads. … no luck. I kept buying them and they they ended up being plastic. boo.
Have you tried a gem and mineral show, Amy?
Loving your bracelets, Karla, especially the ones with old buttons. I’ve never tried it, but might have to give it a go.