How to Make a Lariat Necklace With Beads and Chain Step by Step

What makes a lariat different

A lariat has no clasp. Instead, it relies on its length and a decorative end to stay in place when wrapped, knotted or looped. Some are designed to pass through a ring or loop at one end, and others are simply a long chain with beaded dangles that is tied in a loose knot at the front.

Because there is no fastening, a lariat suits people who have trouble with small clasps. It is also adjustable by nature, since you can wear it long, doubled or knotted at different positions. Style choices come down to the length of the chain and the weight of the dangles.

Materials and tools

You need chain in a style that drapes nicely, such as cable chain or a fine curb chain, plus beads, head pins or eye pins, jump rings, and optionally a ring or a bead cap. A medium weight chain holds a knot without slipping, while a very fine chain may slide undone. Pliers and wire cutters complete the toolkit.

For pins, choose a length slightly longer than your beads so you have enough wire to make a loop. Round-nose pliers shape the loops, flat-nose pliers close jump rings, and wire cutters trim the ends. Wire snips can fly, so protect your eyes and cover the cut end with your fingers.

If you prefer, you can use a ready-made chain with a ring already attached, which saves time. Check that the chain links are closed and smooth, because rough links can snag clothing. Matching the metal color of the chain, pins and jump rings gives a cohesive finished look.

Compare jewelry chain →

Choose the length

Lariats are often between 30 and 48 inches long, though shorter versions are common too. A longer chain gives you more ways to style it, such as wrapping twice around the neck. A shorter one drapes in a simple V shape.

Measure an existing necklace you like, or hold a piece of string around your neck to find a comfortable drop. Remember that the dangles add length to each end. If you are making the piece as a gift, a longer length is usually more flexible.

Make the beaded dangles

Slide a few beads onto a head pin, leaving about three eighths of an inch above the top bead. Bend the wire to a right angle, then use round-nose pliers to form a simple loop. Wrap the wire tail neatly around the base of the loop if you want a wrapped loop, which is stronger, and trim any excess.

Make two dangles that are similar but not necessarily identical. Matching dangles look formal, while slightly different ones feel relaxed. Test the loop by pulling gently, and close it fully so the beads cannot slip off.

For a heavier look, stack several beads on each pin, using a larger bead at the bottom. For a lighter look, use just one or two small beads. Let the weight of the dangles guide your choices, because heavier ends help the lariat hang straight, while very light ends may let it slide around.

See head pins and eye pins →

Attach the dangles to the chain

Open a jump ring sideways with two pairs of pliers. Slip it through the loop of a dangle and the last link of the chain, then close the ring firmly. Repeat at the other end. The jump ring lets the dangle swing freely, which looks graceful.

Make sure the ring is fully closed, because an open ring can let the dangle fall off. For a more secure finish, use two jump rings or solder-free closed rings. Check the connection by tugging gently.

Read the jump ring technique guide →

Add extra interest

You can add beads along the chain by cutting the chain and joining sections with beaded links. Place a small group of beads near the center for a focal point, or scatter a few along the length for a playful look. Use eye pins to connect beads between chain sections.

Another option is a ring or loop at one end, so the other end can be threaded through. That gives a classic slip-through lariat that stays put with no knot. Choose a ring large enough for the dangle to pass through.

Wire-wrapped connectors add a handmade look and are stronger than simple loops, since the wire wraps are fully closed. If you are new to wrapped loops, practice on scrap wire first, then move on to your good beads. Take your time to make each loop neat and consistent.

See jewelry connectors →

Wearing and caring for a lariat

A lariat can be worn long and loose, knotted at the front or looped through itself. Experiment in front of a mirror to find your favorite style. Because the ends hang free, avoid wearing it around machinery or when leaning over equipment, since it can catch.

Store the necklace flat or hung on a hook so the chain does not tangle. Wipe the beads and chain with a soft cloth, and keep plated chains away from water and perfume to protect the finish.

Handle the necklace gently when putting it on and taking it off, because pulling a knot tight can stretch links. If a link becomes loose, close it with pliers. A lariat is easy to repair, so keep a few spare jump rings on hand.