DIY Pony Bead Bracelets: 3 Easy Methods (Best Technique Included)

Updated at: 02/02/2025

Pony bead bracelets are a timeless craft, bringing back nostalgic memories for many and offering a fun, creative outlet for all ages. These charming bracelets are surprisingly versatile, allowing for endless customization in color, pattern, and style. From simple single-strand designs to more intricate creations, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination and the vibrant colors available in a box of pony beads. They make excellent gifts, stylish accessories, or simply a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, this guide will walk you through three easy methods for making your own beautiful pony bead bracelets. We'll cover everything from basic techniques to a more advanced, yet still simple, method that will produce stunning results. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and discover the best technique for crafting your perfect DIY pony bead bracelet – let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Safety Guidelines

  • Supervise young children when making bracelets to prevent choking hazards from small beads.
  • Wash your hands before and after handling beads to maintain hygiene.
  • Avoid using sharp tools or excessive force when working with the bracelet, as this can lead to cuts or broken materials.

Methods: Round Cord/Sky Strings Method

Tools Needed

  • Round cord elastic OR Sky strings
  • Pony beads
  • Ruler
  • Scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Cut 32 inches of round cord elastic or Sky strings.
    Cut 32 inches of round cord elastic or Sky strings.
    Prepare Materials

  2. Add First Bead

    • Place the first bead onto one side of the cord.
    • Pass the other end of the cord through the bead.
    • Pull both ends to center the bead.
    Pull both ends to center the bead.Pull both ends to center the bead.Pull both ends to center the bead.
    Add First Bead

  3. Add Remaining Beads

    • Repeat steps 2-4 with remaining beads until bracelet reaches desired wrist size.
    Repeat steps 2-4 with remaining beads until bracelet reaches desired wrist size.
    Add Remaining Beads

  4. Close Bracelet

    • Thread one end of the elastic through the first bead.
    • Tie the two ends together 4-5 times.
    • Trim excess elastic.
    Trim excess elastic.Trim excess elastic.Trim excess elastic.
    Close Bracelet

Methods: Rubber Bands Method

Tools Needed

  • Rainbow loom rubber bands
  • Pony beads
  • C clip
  • Crochet hook

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the first rubber band

    • Place a rubber band on the crochet hook and twist to form two loops.
    • Attach a C clip to the loops.
    • Remove one loop from the hook, leaving one loop on the hook and one on the C clip.
    Remove one loop from the hook, leaving one loop on the hook and one on the C clip.Remove one loop from the hook, leaving one loop on the hook and one on the C clip.Remove one loop from the hook, leaving one loop on the hook and one on the C clip.Remove one loop from the hook, leaving one loop on the hook and one on the C clip.Remove one loop from the hook, leaving one loop on the hook and one on the C clip.Remove one loop from the hook, leaving one loop on the hook and one on the C clip.
    Prepare the first rubber band

  2. Add the first bead

    • Add a bead to the loop on the hook.
    • Place the other loop back onto the bead.
    Place the other loop back onto the bead.Place the other loop back onto the bead.Place the other loop back onto the bead.
    Add the first bead

  3. Add subsequent beads and rubber bands

    • Repeat steps 2-5 adding beads and rubber bands until bracelet reaches desired wrist size. An alternative method for adding beads is also described starting at 419.759
    Repeat steps 2-5 adding beads and rubber bands until bracelet reaches desired wrist size. An alternative method for adding beads is also described starting at 419.759
    Add subsequent beads and rubber bands

  4. Finish the bracelet

    • Attach the final C-clip.
    • Remove from hook.
    Remove from hook.Remove from hook.Remove from hook.
    Finish the bracelet

Read more: DIY Hanging Star Lights: Two Easy Tutorials for Festive Decor

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Bead Distribution

Reason: Pulling the string too tight or too loosely while stringing beads can lead to uneven spacing and a less aesthetically pleasing bracelet.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension on the string throughout the beading process.

2. Knots Too Loose or Too Tight

Reason: Loose knots can easily come undone, while overly tight knots can be difficult to tie and may damage the beads or string.
Solution: Practice tying secure but not overly tight square knots.

FAQs

What kind of pony beads should I use for bracelets?
You can use any pony beads you like! However, smaller beads (e.g., 6mm) are generally easier to work with for beginners. Avoid very large beads unless you're making a chunky bracelet.
How do I prevent the bracelet from falling apart?
Securely tie off your knots and use a strong thread or elastic cord. For extra durability, consider using a knotting technique like the surgeon's knot and finishing with a dab of clear nail polish to seal the knots.
What's the best way to make the bracelet the right size?
Measure your wrist loosely and add an inch or two for comfort and closure. You can always adjust the length as you go by adding or removing beads before finishing the bracelet.