DIY Mother's Day Gift: Easy Beaded Jewelry For Mom

What mom wouldn't love some sparkle on Mother's Day? Stringing shiny beads on a cord is super simple, and it's a gift Mom will be proud to wear and show off. Kids can make necklaces, bracelets, or anklets -- whatever they think Mom would like best.

If you're working with younger kids, opt for beads that are larger so that they're easier to string. Older kids should have no problems stringing smaller seed beads.

What you'll need:

• Stretchy beading cord
• Beading needle (optional)
• Beads of various sizes and colors
• Scissors
• Pendant or charm (optional)
• Cement glue

Instructions:

1. Thread the end of the beading cord with a beading needle, if you'd like. (Beading needles are not as sharp as sewing needles, but check to be sure it's safe for your kid before handing it over to them.) Don't cut the cord yet; leaving the cord attached to the spool will ensure the beads don't slip off.

2. Help your kid plan a bead design. Decide whether your kid would like to make a necklace, bracelet, anklet, or all three! Large beads and small beads can be combined or alternated. Younger kids might opt for larger beads to make the beading process easier. Kids can even add a pendant or charm to the center of the accessory, if they'd like.

If you're not sure how long the accessory needs to be, one option is to be sneaky and use one of Mom's accessories as a guide.

3. Begin stringing beads one at a time onto the string.

4. When kids have strung all the beads, check the length to be sure it is appropriate. Since we used an elastic beading cord, there's a bit of wiggle room for the length.

5. Cut the beading cord, leaving a few inches of cord free on each end of the jewelry.

6. Tie the ends of the cord in an overhand knot two or three times. Tug on the cord gently to tighten the knot.

7. Add a dab of cement glue to the knot to secure it. Allow the glue to dry.

8. Using scissors, clip any excess cord from the ends of the knot, being careful not to clip directly into the glue.