This is one of those very versatile necklaces that can be dressed up for an elegant affair or it can be dressed down for a more casual look. The special thing about this necklace is the nesting of the seed beads around the Bauble Beads. Take a look at the "close-up" photo and you will see what I mean. While this is an easy kit, it probably isn't a beginner kit. I would say that the braider should have had a little bit of practice with dropping beads before diving into this project. The overall beaded design is color-blocked with hints of contrast color or "spot".

There are five clusters with the one in the center slightly larger (more Baubles) than those on the sides. Also notice the very nice Acrylic Glue-in Magnetic End caps. They are a super compliment to the necklace. And the magnets are super strong! You'll like these. The finished length is around 18" to 19" (depending on braider). You will need: Kumihimo Disk (I really suggest the  BeadSmith THICK Mini ($3.75) - the thickness of the disk will help manage the tension of the finer BeadCord and heavier Baubles), 8 Bobbins (I used small plastic EZ Bobbins), 45 grams counterweight (I used a Hexnut and mini clamp from Home depot), Scissors, Tape Measure, Needle & Thread or Zapper, Flat Nose Pliers-optional and Glue (I use WeldBond). You should know: Kumihimo Round Braid (also known as tKongoh Gumi) and How to Drop Beads. If you need a refresher check out Kumihimo Tip #14.

Kit includes:

- 1 spool of C-Lon Bead Cord (you will have extra for another project)

- 3 colors 8/0 Toho/Miyuki Seed Beads
- Bauble Beads

- Acrylic Magnetic End Caps

- Wide Eye Needle

- Instructions with Photos
- 6 color ways 

- Cost: $34.00

Click here for Kumihimo Necklace Kits . 

Bauble Beads
- 8mm
- Top  Drilled - $4/pkg



These are the Bauble Beads that I feature in the 5 Cluster bauble Beaded Necklace Kit.

 

Porcelain Pony Beads 

- Diameter: 11mm
- Height: 7mm
- Hole: 6mm
- 10 colors
- $.85 / each


These brilliantly cored porcelain Pony Beads are just the right size to slide onto an 8 strand braid made of Petite Satin Cord or a combination of fibers that yield a similar size braid (i.e. Petite Satin combined with Ribbon or Gimp).  Click here for Porcelain Pony Beads.

Porcelain Cheerio Beads
- Diameter: 11mm
- Height: 4.5mm 
- Hole: 6mm 
- 5 colors
- $.50/each 

Use the porcelain Cheerio Beads the same way as the Pony Beads (above).  Click here for Porcelain Cheerio Beads.


Flower End Cap (Large Hole)
- 15.7mm x 13mm
- Hole: 10mm 
- $1.95 / each 

Making a long lariat type necklace and you want to cap the ends? Here's an option for you. Simply glue these end caps to the ends of your braids. Note, the hole size is 10mm. Think along the lines of a braided rope made with 6/0 seed beads or a "braid" made up of multiple braids.   Click here for Flower End Caps. 

  Round End Cap (Large Hole)
- 10mm x 12mm
- Hole: 10mm 
- $1.75 / each 
Making a long lariat type necklace and you want to cap the ends? Here's an option for you. Simply glue these end caps to the ends of your braids. Note, the hole size is 10mm. Click here for Round End Caps. 

Start the New Year with some sparkle! This mixture of techniques, from past kits, combines braiding with beads and the Cluster Bead Necklace (2011). The Preciosa Pip beads are a great style - not too big and not too small.  This adjustable length necklace is made with 8/0 seed beads and 5 "clusters" of Pip beads. The beaded portion measures right around 16" with 6" of braided tails on either end. The necklace slips over your head and you can adjust the length of the necklace depending on what you are wearing. I like this flexibility.  You will need: Kumihimo 6" or mini disk (a newer disk with tighter slots is recommended), 8 Bobbins, Tape Measure, Scissors, Fray Check or Fray Block .  You should know: Kumihimo Round Braid and how to "drop" beads. For a tutorial for dropping beads click here,  Kumihimo Tip #14.

Kit includes:
- C-Lon Bead Cord
- 8/0 Toho and /or Miyuki Seed Beads
- Preciosa Pip Beads
- Barrel Bead for Adjustable Closure
- Wide Eye Needle
- Instructions with Photos
- 5 color ways
- $30 to $34