How to Make Friendship Bracelets

Learn how to make friendship bracelets that are sweet and simple to make. The whole family will get into this fun beading activity!

Have you joined the friendship bracelet club? Whether you’re a Swiftie or not, friendship bracelets are enjoying a vibrant comeback right now with their nostalgic charm and customizable designs.

Friendship bracelets are a blast for kids to make. They combine creativity and manual dexterity, allowing kids to design unique accessories that they can keep or give to friends. Plus, the hands-on process of threading colorful beads onto string or cords fosters fine motor skills.

We make lots of friendship bracelets at our house, and it usually ends up that the entire family is gathered around the table, stringing beads on in all kinds of patterns.

And if you’ve got little ones at home, they can be included in the fun! We’ve got lots of fun bead bracelet ideas for little kids!

Photo by Andrea Martelle

How to Make Friendship Bracelets

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MATERIALS

Elastic cord
Beads
Scissors
Clipboard or tray
Tape

INSTRUCTIONS

Prepare materials
Before you begin beading, cut the elastic cord to a comfortable length for a bracelet, usually around 10-12 inches. We typically tape one end to a tray and wrap a piece of tape around the other end, to make for easier beading.

Gather a variety of beads in different colors, shapes, and sizes.
Thread beads
This is the fun part! String your beads onto your elastic cord in any pattern you’d like. If you have letter beads, you can make your name, or a friend’s name!

Keep beading! You’ll be amazed at how quickly a bracelet comes together.
Tie the bracelet off
Measure the bracelet around your wrist and make any necessary adjustments.

Once the beads are threaded, tie a secure knot at the ends of the cord to hold the beads in place. Double or triple knot to ensure it’s tight and won’t unravel easily. You can also use a drop of craft glue to secure it. Trim the excess cord.