Holiday Gift Beading Ideas
Handcrafted jewelry or accessories are one of the most personal and individual gifts you can give for family and friends this year. And while the holiday season is still a little ways off, now is the perfect time to start planning! Keep in mind the time that it will take to buy or order your supplies (if you don’t already have them), make the piece, and shipping time if needed. You might want to get started now!
We have outlined a few ideas for great personalized gifts that you can make this holiday season. Think about who is on your list, and how you can create a beautiful sparkly work of art for those special people!
Mother’s Bracelets – also known as Name Bracelets, the possibilities in design are endless. The basic premise is to signify children, grandchildren or family members with corresponding birthstone Swarovski crystals, letter beads (spell out an entire name, or simply use initials), or even use precious and semi-precious birthstones in the bracelet.
Cause Jewelry – Awareness jewelry is very popular, and is a great way of showing support for a cause. Colored ribbon charms or beads signify various causes, and wearing a beautiful piece of jewelry with a cause ribbon or bead helps to spread awareness. (BCA Dangle Necklace, BCA Kathy Bracelet pictured left) 
Consider making a donation to the cause represented in conjunction with your gift – for example, enclose a small card with a breast cancer awareness bracelet stating “$50 has been donated in your name to the _____ Foundation.”
Glass Markers – also called Wine Glass Charms, this fun “jewelry for your glassware” is so easy to personalize and make, you’ll whip up a set for each of your close friends and coworkers! Using colored beads, crystals and charms strung on wire hoops, each marker is individualized within a theme so that guests can identify which glass is theirs. Charms are readily available at most craft shops (Michael’s has a good selection in their scrapbook aisle!) and from online suppliers such as Rings and Things. Present with a favorite bottle of wine and sparkling wine glasses for a special housewarming or hostess gift!
Cell Phone Charms, Zipper Pulls, Book Marks – looking for a way to use up orphan beads? Especially hot with the younger set, you’ll find these small, inexpensive and quick to make accessories are great stocking stuffers or exchange gifts.
Of course, a really easy solution to the gift-giving dilemma is to make a set (necklace, earrings and bracelet) in the receiver’s favorite color or stone or with their birthstone. Who wouldn’t love a handcrafted set that’s made by a friend or family member?
Beaded objects for those on your holiday list are a great way to create unique, personalized gifts! Planning ahead to avoid the holiday rush will enable you to craft quality items at a price lower than retail.and your gift recipient will enjoy the individuality you put into their piece.
