Obsidian is a dazzling rock that captures the sun in an amazing way. I first remember finding an obsidian rock near an old mining cave where we used to camp back in the eighties. I have always loved obsidian, but buying a large number of these beads would be more expensive than using acrylic ones. A large package of acrylic beads that look like obsidian sell for around a dollar, which is a great alternative for making a faux black obsidian bracelet. The material I used for this project were:

• a ruler
• stretchy cord
• black acrylic beads
• scissors

I made five small black acrylic beads that I wear together, which gives the look of a more complicated bracelet. This project is easy enough for kids, but adults will also enjoy wearing these beautiful black colored bracelets.

First gather together the beads and the stretchy cord.  Use a ruler to measure and cut off about twelve inches (30.48 centimeters).  For my wrist I only need about seven to eight inches to go around, but I use the extra stretchy cord for tying off the bracelet.

Tie a knot at the end of the stretchy cord and add the first bead.  Make sure the knot is large enough so the bead does not slip off.

Keep adding beads to the necklace.  Make sure the slip knot is big enough so the beads do not fall off.

Add more beads to the bracelet.  Straighten out the strand every now and then to measure with a ruler, which helps to check the progress.  A bracelet has to be about 7.5 inches  (19.05 centimeters) to go around my wrist, so I periodically measure the strand to see what stage I am at.  I used a flexible ruler to measure around my wrist, but cutting off a piece of yarn and measuring it with a ruler would also work.  I like to measure out my bracelets because in the past these were either too small or too large when I did not do so. 

Keep adding beadss to the strand, and periodically check to see if the desired length has been reached.  Keep in mind each person's wrist will vary, so measure before beading!

 Keep adding the beads to the bracelet.  Of course measure from time to time.

After measuring my wrist I have determined a bracelet needs to be between 7.5 to 8 inches ( 19.05 to 20.32 centimeters) to go around my wrist. As I suggested please do measure your wrist to determine the proper circumference. Once my bracelet is long enough it is time to tie it off. I can do this easily by take both end and knotting these together several times until the bracelet is secure. I simply trim off the excess stretchy cord hanging out of the knot, which is not very visible since I used clear colored cord.

 For this project I decided to make five bracelets to be worn together, which creates the illusion of a more complicated bracelet.

The bracelets are now ready to wear and enjoy.  These black acrylic beads have the look of faux black obsidian, so these are fun and economical alternative in the world or beading.  Happy crafting!