NIGHT SKY | DIY Tutorial
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What you’ll need:
– 1 clipboard or a firm surface
– 2 clips
– 1 lighter
– 1x 40 cm base cord (0.75 mm)
– 2x 45 cm knotting cords (1 mm)
– 2x 15 cm cords for the sliding closure (0.75 mm)
– 1x moonstone bead (6 mm), 2x moonstone beads (4 mm)
– 4x faceted brass beads (diamond shape)
– 8x small round brass beads (approx. 1.5 mm)
– Optional: 2 small wooden beads for the ends
Any additional pieces in your kit are little extras – spare material or small gifts. Feel free to set them aside for now.
Step-by-step instructions:
Prepare the base:
Attach the 40 cm base cord (0.75 mm) to the top of your clipboard using a clip.
Now thread your beads in this order: small round brass bead, 4 mm moonstone, faceted brass bead, 6 mm moonstone, faceted brass bead, 4 mm moonstone, small brass bead.
Clip the bottom end of the base cord too, so everything is held taut.
Attach the knotting cords:
Take one 45 cm knotting cord and align it centered right next to the beads, wrapping it around the base cord. Tie it with a simple overhand knot.
Turn the clipboard upside down and repeat the same on the other side.
Push everything tightly together so your beaded design sits centered and snug.
Start knotting:
Now macrame each side like this:
4 knots → brass bead → 5 knots → brass bead → 5 knots → brass bead → 1 knot
(Tip: Use a standard overhand knot – like you’d use to tie a gift ribbon. Always knot in the same direction to create a lovely spiral pattern.)
2-strand cord twist:
Now twist the two loose ends of the knotting cord. Lay them over each other and twist both inward at the same time – keep the tension firm and steady toward your body and place your right hand (if you're righthanded) on the clipboard to keep it stable.
When you reach slightly more than your desired length (→ reference: center-to-knot distance), clip the twisted end securely and unclip the base cord.
3-strand cord twist:
Now twist the base cord together with the twisted piece as before. They should start to wrap around each other naturally.
If it doesn’t work smoothly – no worries! You can simply braid the three cords instead. :)
Secure the end:
Once you’ve reached your final length, tie all three cords together with a regular knot.
Trim the two knotting cords about 1 mm from the knot and carefully melt the ends with a lighter to seal. (Make sure not to burn the base cord – hold it aside with your finger or thumb while sealing.)
Add the end beads:
Slide one small wooden bead and one brass bead onto each end of the base cord. Tie a secure knot, trim down to 1 mm, and seal with the lighter. Your bracelet is nearly finished!
Make the sliding knots:
Take the two 15 cm cords and tie one over both bracelet ends. Then tie a second knot in the opposite direction (mirrored). Alternate back and forth for a total of four knots – this will create a symmetrical and sturdy sliding closure.
Trim and seal the ends as before.
And… done!
You’re now holding your handmade Night Sky bracelet – crafted with love, patience, and a little bit of magic. 🖤🌑🌕
Time to be proud!
Tip:
If the small beads won’t slide onto the cord: cut the end of the cord at a sharp angle to create a finer tip. You can also twist the end slightly while threading – this helps create a pointed “arrow” shape for easier bead entry.
If the strands start to fray, try twisting in the opposite direction to tighten them again.