Home Ec Tutorial - The May Flowers Necklace

My wee Mum has a birthday coming up on May 31st.  It's pretty appropriate that she was born in the month of "May Flowers" since she has two green thumbs.  Here's a (small) example of her gardens.

So, I decided the most appropriate gift for her would be to make a necklace with a "May flowers" theme.  Here's what you'll need to get started:

• 4 different weight chains (you can re-purpose old necklaces that you don't wear anymore for this, or purchase new chain.)
• Head pins (for beading)
• Jump rings (various sizes)
• Clasp
• Flower shaped beads (I used Laliberi, which I loove, and you can find them at Joann's)
• Bicone beads
• Needle nose pliers and wire cutters
• Flower brooch

First, you're going to take one of your heavier weight chains and cut two pieces approx 9" long.

Next, take the lightest weight chain and cut it to 16.5"

Cut your third chain (preferable one with a little embellishment, like the one here) to 18.5"

Your last chain (this one has some rhinestones on it for visual interest) should be about 20.5" long.

Your next step will be to attach the 3 longest pieces together on each end with a jump ring.  Then add your shorter length of chain to each side.  When they're attached, they should look like this on each side.

Attach the the clasp pieces with a jump ring to the loose end of each of the shorter pieces like this.

Now you're going to add a few clusters of flower beads to the center chain (the one you cut to 18.5")

Start with a head pin and slide a bicone bead onto it.  (You could also use pearls here if you prefer.)

Next, add a floral bead.

Using your needle nose pliers, bend the wire to a 90 degree angle.  Clip off excess with wire cutters, leaving just enough to make a small loop.  (Don't cut too much!  It's easier to make it shorter if you need to, but you can't add length back on.)

Using your pliers, bend and shape the wire into a small closed loop.

Make several of these using different combinations of beads and then attach them in little clusters with a jump ring at even intervals along the center chain.

Attach your brooch to one side of the necklace where the grouping of chains meet the shorter chain and voila!  A May Flowers Necklace :)

If you decide to make your own, I'd love to see your variations!  Post them on my facebook page here.

Hugs and Smooches,
D