FREE PROJECT: Funky Necklace

Here is a free necklace project for you to try this weekend, you can make this necklace in any colour scheme you like so if you don't have the beads used in the photo why not try some different ones instead for a unique look. This project is taken from a new book by Dorothy Wood called The Ultimate Necklace Maker which features loads of gorgeous designs suitable for any tastes or occasions.

YOU WILL NEED
- Painted heart bead in deep pink, 30mm  
- 25 painted wood beads in white spotted raspberry, red, pink and orange, 12 x 15mm  
- Wood pony beads in raspberry, orange and pink, 14 8 x 10mm and 8 6 x 8mm  
- Waxed cotton cord in orange, pink and raspberry, 2m (21⁄8yd) of each  - Organza ribbon in pink, 2m (21⁄8yd) of 15mm (5⁄8in)  
- 2 spring cord ends  
- Hook necklace fastening  
- Basic tool kit

1.  Cut the cords and ribbon in half. Make two bundles the same and tie together with a reef (square) knot, leaving 8–10cm (3–4in) tails. Feed the long cords on one side through the large heart-shaped bead and use a big-eye needle to thread the ribbon through. Tie an overhand knot after the bead. Guide it down with a tapestry needle and pull tight.

2.  Pick up a spotted raspberry and spotted red bead on orange and pink cords. Thread the remaining cord and ribbon through a large raspberry pony bead and tie an overhand knot with all the cords and ribbon. Repeat using spotted pink and orange beads with a small raspberry pony bead.

3.  After the next knot, thread the cords and ribbon through a large pale pink pony bead and tie another overhand knot.
* Add two spotted beads singly, knotting after each one, then another pony bead. Repeat from * to finish that side. On the opposite side, add two sets of double beads and three sets of single beads in a mix of colours.

4.  Add one or two pony beads to each of the dangling cords and the ribbons coming from the reef knot. Tie them together in pairs. Trim the ends neatly. Check the length of the necklace so that the large heart bead sits as a ‘station’ at one side. Trim the necklace ends to the correct length and attach spring ends. Attach a hook fastening.

Top Tip:  If you have to untie waxed cord because you make a mistake, refresh by ironing to restore the stiffness.

Good Luck

Marie