Nautical Necklace & Crystal Heart Necklace

As I've been gearing up for the "Life's A Beach" series next week, I couldn't help wanting to make a few nautical themed projects myself!  I saw a necklace similar to this on Etsy and decided to give it a try.

NAUTICAL NECKLACE

Materials: 26 gauge wire, flat shell-like beads, jump rings and clasp, pliers and cutters

First cut four strands of wire the length you want your necklace to be plus about six inches.  I didn't measure, I wrapped it around my neck, allowed an extra 6" and cut.  Then, string your beads one at a time and wrap your wire once or twice around each one to hold it in place.  They're not perfectly spaced so that it has a more random look.  When you've placed beads on all 4 pieces of wire, secure them around one jump ring on each end.  Then add a clasp, and enjoy!

I also have another necklace project up my sleeve...it's not beach themed but I thought you might enjoy it!

CRYSTAL HEART NECKLACE

Materials: 12 gauge aluminum wire, 26 gauge wire, 7 small crystals, jump ring, pliers and cutters

STEP 1: Using needle nose pliers, curl wire into a small loop.

STEP 2: Decide how tall you want your heart to be.  Go down the wire that far and make a loop in the opposite direction.

You can flatten it down with pliers.

STEP 3: Curl the other end of the wire down in a loop to form the second side of the heart.

There's no exact science to it, each one you make will look slightly different...that's what makes it art!

STEP 4: Wrap 26 gauge wire around the larger side of the heart several times.  String a crystal and wrap around the heart once.  String another and wrap, repeating until all seven beads are secure.  Wrap wire several times and cut.

STEP 5: Add jump ring and chain.

You can also make it a more simple necklace by leaving off the crystals and just wearing the heart.

Another option is to make the heart with thinner gauge wire if you like a more delicate look; this is 20 gauge.

You can customize it using any color or combination of colored crystals, even using family birthstones if you like.  What do you think?

I'm thinking of adding these to Etsy...which reminds me, don't forget to enter the giveaway for a $25 gift certificate to my Etsy shop found over at Crayon Freckles!  Only 15 entries so far...your chances are good! :)

Have a great day!