Jewelry made with textiles is a beautiful way to add texture and depth to your outfit. This $98 leather feather necklace at Anthropologie is the perfect example. Equal parts edgy and bohemian, this accessory is ideal for any ensemble. Fortunately, you don't have to spend a pretty penny to sport this piece. With a few supplies and basic jewelry making techniques, you can make your very own homemade version.
Items you will need
- Leather or faux leather
- Jewelry glue
- Leather cord (1/8-inch thick)
- Beads (2)
- 6mm jump rings (13)
- Sharp scissors
- Jewelry pliers
- Toothpicks
- Acrylic paints
Tips
Use beads that have holes large enough for the cord to slip through.
Cut out two leather ovals; each one should measure two to three inches long. Trim the ends of the oval to create sharp points.
Tips
If you'd like guidance during the cutting process, create a homemade pattern. Start off by drawing and cutting out a pointed oval from a sheet of cardboard or paper. Trace this shape onto the leather with gel pen or chalk. Cut the leather along the lines.
Using a toothpick and the acrylic paint, paint a dotted vertical line down the middle of each piece.
Add a few more lines at an angle. Alternate between dotted and frayed brush-like strokes.
Repeat with additional colors of acrylic paint. The final color palette is completely up to you. Set aside to dry.
Cut a length of cord measuring 30 inches long.
Add three 6mm jump rings to one end of the cord. Slide on the bead and add three more 6mm jump rings.
Tips
If you are having a difficult time inserting the cord through the bead, cut the tip of the cord at a slant. This helps the cord maneuver through the bead with ease.
Tie a knot about three inches from the end of the cord.
Repeat at the opposite end of the cord.
Fold the cord in half. Insert the folded end through a 6mm jump ring.
Slide the jump ring downward until it can not go any further. Pull one side of the cord so that the ends do not line up. This will create that classic lariat necklace look.
Place the jump ring in between the flat portion of the pliers. Squeeze tightly to flatten.
Tips
To create an adjustable lariat necklace, skip this step. This will allow you to slide the jump ring up and down, changing the way the necklace is worn and styled.
Glue the ends of the cord to the back side of the leather feathers. Let dry completely.
Once the glue is dry, your new necklace is ready to go. Because it doesn't have a clasp, you can easily throw it on and off.
Thanks to this statement necklace, you won't need to worry about additional accessories. Pair it with a simple top to let your new piece shine.
About the Author
Kirsten Nunez is a lifestyle writer and author focusing on crafts, creativity and health. Since 2010, she has been sharing DIY projects at WildAmor.com (formerly Studs & Pearls). In May 2014, she published a craft book, "Studs & Pearls: 30 Creative Projects for Customized Fashion." She lives in San Francisco.
