stacked beaded bracelet

My mom came across some great bracelets at a store recently and thought they would be something we could easily replicate while I was home over Thanksgiving. And they were easy - once we managed to finally decide on which beads we wanted to use!

the inspiration piece

Supplies:

• Memory wire (coiled wire that holds its shape)
• Selection of beads
• Wire cutter
• Needle-nosed pliers

First, select beads in a variety of sizes and shapes for interest - you'll need need enough of each type to wrap once around your wrist, and you'll want 7-10 types, depending on how big you want the bracelet. You can line them up on the table to get an idea of what order will look nice.
Then, cut a section of wire that will fit the beads you've selected (one coil per bead type) and make a loop at one end with the pliers. Slide the beads on, making a full circle of each type, so that when you finish it will look like several separate bracelets.

Once all the beads are on, cut off any excess wire and then make a loop at the end.

There's obviously a huge range of bracelets you can make with this, depending on the beads. My first one was more bold and my second a bit more subdued.
My mom made a really fun one with more variety of colors.

These could be a great Christmas gift - especially if you catch beads half off at Michael's or Hobby Lobby like we did. We estimated $12-$15 per bracelet we made. I love them both so much that they will be hard to part with, but one is going to go to someone on my Christmas list....