A question about hemp jewelry?
When I am making necklaces and bracelets I usually want to put one or three beads in the middle,but I never know where the middle is while I’m weaving/knotting (whatever it is). Are there any tricks to knowing where it is?
Also; when cutting the hemp how long should you cut it for the average necklace?
and how can you make it softer quicker?
Anything will help,thanks.
Finding the middle: instead of putting the bead(s) in the middle, you could put them on a dangle and locate the middle when you are done; you can measure what you have done and compare it to how long you want the necklace to be
Length: the average necklace ranges from 18″ to 26″, depending on how far away from the neck you want it to be – so after deciding what length you want go to http://www.beadage.net/hemp/two_knots.shtml and see how long they need to be
Softer: you can start with a smooth twine, you can use jewelry cord if you are not hooked on ‘hemp’. Any of the cords will make nice macramé, soft, smooth, and colored.
To make it softer, try soaking in a little watered down fabric softener then drying. (can dry in a low 125′ oven but have to watch very very carefully). Also try warming the string in a heating pad.
Knowing how long to precut a string depends on the style you are weaving. Start keeping notes and eventually you will figure out the right lengths. Ditto…finding the middle.