When I saw these neon Swarovski pearls online like six months ago, I knew I had to have them. I didn’t know what I was going to make, but that didn’t matter. I used to make a lot of jewelry (I even made my necklace for my wedding) so I had most of the supplies, but I haven’t made anything in years. I guess I just needed some neon beads to feel inspired! I finally got around to using them last weekend, and I’m sharing the tutorial with you today. (Actually, I bought enough beads to make like 5 necklaces, so stay tuned for another tutorial in a few weeks!)

This necklace was inspired by many that I have bought over the years, mainly from J.Crew. I love long necklaces that can be layered or worn alone, and this one is mostly neutral with a bright pop of neon for a little added fun factor!

So, let’s get started. The beauty of this necklace is that you can make it with any color metal, and any type of bead that you like! Swarovski makes pearls in every size and color, but you could also use crystals or gemstones or sparkly beads for added glam. I’ll break down the list of what I used below (click image to enlarge).

SUPPLIES
1. Chain, 3 yards. Buying chain online can be tricky since it’s hard to gauge the size, so I bought this matte gold chain at a local store. Michaels has a decent selection, or you could buy something like this. 2. Clasp and jump rings. Most clasps come with jump rings, but you can buy them separately. 3. Craft wire. I used a 20 gauge wire. 4. Swarovski pearls. I used seven 10mm Ivory pearls, four 8mm neon yellow pearls, and two 6mm neon pink pearls. 5. Wire cutters. 6. Flat nose pliers. 7. Looping pliers.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
1. First I create a pattern on a bead board. You don’t have to do this, but it helps me figure out the spacing I’d like.
2. Cut your chain into 12 equal pieces. I used 2″ lengths. Set aside remaining chain for finishing the necklace.
3. Cut one piece of wire for each bead. I cut about 2″ lengths.
4. Create a loop in the wire by wrapping wire around the looping pliers.
5. Loop the wire onto the chain.
6. While holding the loop with your pliers, wrap the short end of the wire tightly around the length twice and trim off excess. (This can take a little practice.)
7. Thread the bead onto the wire and bend the wire with the flat nose pliers about 2mm away from the bead.
8. Create a loop around your looping pliers and thread another piece of chain through the loop.
9. Repeat the double wrapping process and trim off excess.
10. Yay! One bead is done. Now repeat this step with all remaining beads. (Sometimes I forget to put the chain through the loop before closing it. Don’t worry, you can just cut it off and redo it. It’s a pain though, so try to take your time and not rush like me!)
11. Place the longer pieces of remaining chain on your last beads (at the top of the necklace). Then cut chain into desired length (about 4.5″ in my case).
12. Loop jump rings and clasp onto ends of chain and close with pliers.

You’re done! Time to show off your work! Please let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll be happy to help! I’ll be back with another (easier) tutorial in a couple weeks!