Surprise! Crafted from paracord and pliable wire, this bendable beauty can be fashioned into a range of eye-catching designs to match your outfit.
Whether you’re heading to a dance party, date night, or dinner with friends, there’s one thing your outfit needs: A conversation-starting piece of jewelry. And this DIY paracord necklace doesn’t disappoint: With a clever hidden bit of bendy wire, it can transform from a circle one moment to a square the next. Magic!
In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to make your own. Use bright, bold colors, or keep it minimal (like we did) with classic black cord for a look that's structural and sleek. Ready to get started?
Skill Level: Beginner
Time: 1 hour or less
Materials:
- Paracord (2 yards will make one necklace)
- Flat-nose pliers
- Industrial-strength adhesive
- Nylon jaw pliers
- Wire cutters
- 18-gauge wire
- Jewelry end caps
- Tape measure
- Wooden beads or charms (optional)
- Lighter
Step 1: Cut the paracord
Cut a 50 inch length of paracord (36 inches is for the length of the necklace and 14 inches is for the bow). If you’d like a shorter necklace, subtract a few inches. Note: If you’re using end caps with lobster clasps, you won’t need the additional length for the bow.
Step 2: Remove filler cords
Make sure both ends of your paracord are freshly cut. Next, remove the filler cords within by pulling them out of one end. Discard.
Step 3: Straighten the wire
Unwind at least 6.5 inches of wire from the spool. To straighten the wire before cutting, run your nylon jaw pliers over the wire a few times.
Step 4: Cut and bend wire
Use wire cutters to cut 6.5 inches of wire from the spool.
Next, use your flat-nosed pliers to bend the edges of wire onto itself, so each end is rounded and not sharp.
Step 5: Add wire to paracord
Slip the piece of wire into the paracord until it’s positioned at the center of the cord. Now you’re ready to bend the wire into whichever shape you wish: triangle, rectangle, circle, or square. Or go rogue and make a squiggly line. It’s up to you!
Step 6: Seal paracord ends
Use a lighter to quickly burn the cut ends of the paracord. This will seal them and prevent fraying. Use caution when completing this step.
Step 7: Add jewelry caps
Use industrial-strength adhesive to glue the metal end caps over the paracord ends. This will give your necklace a more finished look.
Step 8: Make a bow (and take a bow)
Tie ends in a bow. Voila—your necklace is complete and ready to wear on your next night out.
Want the drama without the DIY? Shop these statement-making cord styles straight from talented jewelry sellers.
SHOP: (clockwise from top left): Macrame rope necklace from Knottinger, $25; ombre cord necklace from Shop Show and Tell, $35; cord climbing rope statement necklace from Mountain of Greatness, $71; black suede choker from La Boba, $30
