Tutorial Tuesday: Ribbon Pearl Necklace

Recently on Net-a-porter (which I mostly only browse for DIY inspiration) I came across this totally unaffordable (for me, anyway) Lanvin glass pearl necklace. That’s right, $595 and not even real pearls, although I’m sure it would cost ten times as much if oysters actually participated in its creation.

What I like about it is the juxtaposition of the bright fuchsia ribbon with traditional pearls, so I set out to recreate the feel of the piece in my own way.

Materials
Grosgrain ribbon (~2 yards)
Glass pearls (30)
Beading thread
Needle
Scissors

Methods

1. Clip the end of your ribbon at a 45 degree angle so it won’t unravel, then measure 16 inches from the end and mark it.

2. Thread a needle that will fit through your pearls with beading thread, knot the end, and put it through your ribbon at the 16-inch mark. Knot your ribbon over the knotted beading thread.

3. String a pearl on the thread, fold your ribbon in half lengthwise, and then go through the ribbon again with the needle and thread. Add another bead and repeat until you’ve strung all of your pearls.

4. When you get to the last pearl, put your needle through the ribbon again, tie a knot in the beading thread, and cut it.

5. Tie a knot in your ribbon over the knotted beading thread. Measure 16 inches from this knot and cut your ribbon at a 45-degree angle, just as you did at the other end.

6. All done–wasn’t that easy? Convince yourself that your necklace cost $600 and was worth every penny. Look down your nose at the poor masses who can’t afford such finery.