After seeing some beautiful knitted cord necklaces on Pinterest, I decided to try my hand at designing one. Just such a necklace would be perfect for a silent auction.
Instead of a traditional wool yarn, I chose a ribbon yarn. I felt the ribbon would create a more elegant finished product than wool, plus it would feel silkier on the neck. I also purchased some large charms that I could slip onto the cords to dress up the necklace.
Next, I dove in and started making cords, which are super easy to knit. I made some thin cords and some wider ones, and I played around with braiding and twisting them. After some experimentation, I felt I had a great necklace. Well, almost. There was still work to be done on the closure, which I wanted to look professional. I visited a few bead shops and craft stores before finding the perfect findings: metallic cones to hide the knots that held the cords together, fold-over cord ends to crimp the ribbon ends and keep them from fraying, and a magnetic clasp.
Once I was satisfied with the finishing of the necklace, I wrote the instructions into a pattern.
I also made this second necklace to test the pattern:
Now I have two to donate to an upcoming silent auction. I wonder how much they will raise?
If you make one of these necklaces, please let me know. I’d love to see photos!
–Karen
They’re lovely! Glad that you found the cones that you needed, General Bead notwithstanding.
absolutely beautiful !!!! Would love to make one of these for my daughter. Would you please share where you found the findings? Thank you so much, Conni
Thanks so much, Conni. I bought the findings at my local Michaels Craft Store. I hope you enjoy making the necklace!
–Karen
I like the twists of ribbon necklaces, think they would look great over a crew neck sweater. What was your approximate cost to make each?
Thank you! I estimate I spent about $13 total. ($5 on the yarn, $4 on the charms, and $4 on the findings). Please let me know if you make one.
There is a product you can apply to the ends of the yarn or ribbon to help prevent fraying; FrayCheck. You will find the product at any store that sells sewing notions.
Good to know. Thank you!