14. Iridescent Bugle Bead & Leather Ladder Cuff
What This Idea Means
Using long cylindrical bugle beads stacked vertically between leather cords produces a sleek, geometric ladder design. The shimmering bugle surfaces reflect light like modern metallic wrist armor.
How to Make It
- Prepare Frame: Fold a length of dark brown leather cord in half, forming a top button loop.
- Thread Needle: Thread a long needle with strong nylon beading thread and attach to the left leather strand.
- Ladder Bugle Beads: Slide one long glass bugle bead onto the needle. Lay the bead horizontally between the two leather cords.
- Weave Figure-8: Pass the thread over and around the right leather cord, back through the bugle bead interior, and over the left leather cord.
- Repeat & Finish: Repeat laddering bugle beads down the frame and finish with a metallic end button.
Tips and Variations
- Tips: Smooth the inner edges of your bugle beads before weaving to ensure they do not cut the nylon thread under tension.
- Variations: Alternate rows of bugle beads with rows of round seed beads to create varied geometric textures.
Needs to Make That Thing
- 1.5mm round leather cord
- Glass bugle beads (iridescent or metallic)
- Beading thread and long needle
- Closure button
- Scissors