1. A pair of pliers.
Any kind of pliers will do. However, if you are going to make a lot of jewelry, choose one that will feel good in the palm of your hand. I prefer a small flat-nosed pliers with a tension spring that will return the pliers to the open position.
2. A leather cord length of about 18" for a standard size, or whatever length you prefer. We are going to use 1.8 mm to 2 mm thick cord.
3. Two end coils, one clasp.
We are going to chose 2.2 mm coils with an end loop. 2.2 mm is the internal diameter of the coil, and our 1.8 mm or 2 mm cord will fit perfectly.
Optional:
Two plain coils-- these hold the beads in place so the clasp does not slide to the side.
Two round metal beads-- these put a buffer between the coils and your beads, and are a good design element.
These are the basic elements of your necklace; you can add a pendant, ceramic beads, or both!
How to do it:
Place an end coil on one end of the cord, then use the pliers to squeeze tightly the very last loop of the coil. (see image)
Don't use a lot of pressure, or you may cut the cord. That's all there is to it, but it can take a little practice. If you "ruin" the end of the coil, you can trim that part off with wire snips and try again.
You can now string your beads and/or pendant and finish the other end.
[If you are using the optional plain coils to hold the beads in place, give these a light squeeze with the pliers, just on the outermost loop of the coil.]
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