Versatile, easy to make
40" - 60" Lariat Necklaces!
  • Almost like a beaded scarf...
  • Leave them long, or wrap them around one or more times.
  • Tie or loop in front.
  • No clasp needed.
Suggested Parts
  • String on bead cord or Beadalon
  • Try using a Designer Bead assortment
  • To finish the ends, try Czech firepolish beads or Swarvoski beads with molded Leaf beads ( www.artbeads.com
  • Attach dangles with head pins or split rings

Another Example: Link		 Sample Lariat Necklace 

Shown approximately 50% of actual size.

 

General Lariat Instructions

A lariat necklace is one long strand, usually with a loop at each end, and some items hanging from the loops.

If you use Beadalon (a tough but flexible wire cable), you will also need crimp beads. If you use Bead Cord, you will tie knots instead of using crimp beads. Depending on your knot-tying ability, and the sizes of the holes in your beads, you may be able to completely hide the knots. Knots don't get along well with me, so these instructions are assuming using Beadalon.

    1. Make 6-10 dangles to hang off the ends:
     
      a. If using charms, simply attach a split ring to the top of each charm. You may want to use split ring pliers.
      b. If using beads, string desired beads on a head pin, and make a loop at the top, using loop instructions: ELOOP
      Then attach a split ring to the top of the loop.
      c. Divide the dangles into 2 sets, one for each end of the necklace.
Use approximately 45 - 65" of cording/cable. Longer necklaces work well for larger beads, taller or heavier people, or more loops around the neck.
    2. Make a loop:
      a. At one end of the cable, string a crimp bead and about 3/4" of seed beads (enough to form a nice loop, and hold all of your dangles).
      b. String one of the sets of dangles, and push them over the beads.
      c. Now string the short end of the cable through the crimp bead, forming a loop.
      d. Pull all the beads tight, so the split rings are over the beads, not directly on the cord.
      e. Securely crimp the crimp bead, and trim excess cable from the short end.
      Since these crimps are in a visible location, crimping pliers are suggested, to make a nicer looking crimp.

       

    3. String necklace:
    On the remaining cord, string 40 - 60" of beads, your choice of colors and pattern.

    4. Make second loop:

      a. String a crimp bead and about 3/4" of seed beads.
      b. String the other set of dangles, pushing them over the beads, but not past the crimp bead.
      c. String the short end of the cable through the crimp bead, forming a loop.
      d. Pull all the beads tight, so the split rings are over the beads, not directly on the cord.
      e. Securely crimp the crimp bead, and trim excess cable from the short end. Any remaining bit of cable sticking out, can probably be worked into the hole of the nearest bead.
They are no right or wrong ways to wear Lariat necklaces. Experiment to find the ways that work best for you!