DIY Over-sized Wood Bead Garland
Today we're going to show you how to make this over-sized wood bead garland for about $30-$45 with some supplies and things you probably already have around the house. I can't wait—let's get started! :)
First, we used these 2 inch wood beads/balls from Amazon... and grabbed a cordless drill and some drill bits. For the hole size we were intending we used an 1/8th inch drill bit, but it could actually go up a little bit larger—we'd just recommend not going smaller.
Next, we got this 2 millimeter natural jute string from Amazon... and grabbed some paint and sand paper to white wash and rough up the beads, to give them a distressed look.
I specifically used Annie Sloan Chalk Paint—"Old White" and "Pure White" sample pots/jars—to give a rustic, weathered look, and then some clear wax to finish. (Or, if you prefer, you could just apply white wax on its own.)
Of course, regular white paint would work too (if you're moving quickly)... but, if you do use Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, these are the steps I would follow to prepare your beads:
Dilute the paint with water, and apply a thin layer of white paint to all the beads. (For us, I used a disposable baking tin to hold the beads while I painted them.)
Use a rag to wipe the beads down—removing any excess paint—and once dry, sand them to add some variability in appearance.
Then, I applied clear Chalk Paint wax, and buffed it off to finish.
**A typical length for this type of wood bead strand is about 50-60 inches... you'll just need to keep that length in mind as you select the size and number of beads you purchase, based on your preference.
Finally, create your garland with these simple steps...
Take a completed bead that you've white washed, hold it firmly in place and—with a safe workspace and appropriate protection/caution—drill a hole through the center, from side-to-side. Repeat! :)
At this point, once you've drilled all your beads, I do not recommend cutting your jute string... instead, leave it attached to your roll, so that you have flexibility as you work.
One-by-one, string your beads. If you find that your jute isn't going through smoothly, you may need to cut the string in between threading each bead—which is why it's important to keep your string attached to the roll. (Another tip, if you're having difficulty stringing the beads, singe the end of the jute with a flame.)
Lastly, once all your beads are strung, allow a small amount of give between the beads—so that they are able to drape/hang loosely wherever you plan to display them—and tie your string. (Note: Make sure the beads aren't too loose, so the jute string doesn't show as they drape.)
And, if you want to add a little jute tassel at the end... simply cut additional pieces of string, tie them to your final knot, and then snip the ends to the same length. You may also want to wrap them together with a jute string/rope close to your knot to help the strands bunch and hold together.
There you go! A simple DIY over-sized wood bead garland... on-budget, and perfect to dress up your style—whether Coastal, Boho, Boho-Chic, Farmhouse, or Modern Farmhouse!!
If you found this post helpful, please like and comment below... subscribe to be notified when new content is available... and follow us on Instagram and Pinterest. :) You can also find this DIY video here, on our YouTube Channel. Many blessings! -Sarah & Jason