This summer I started a new freelance job that I love: creating designs for Halcraft, who makes the Bead Gallery beads you find in Michaels. One of my recent assignments was to create some bracelets and necklaces that combine bright colors with black and white. I find bright colors challenging, so I thought I'd share some tips I've learned along the way.
5 Tips for Using Bright Colors in Jewelry Designs
Click on the photos or links to view the complete tutorials and larger project photos.
1. Combine black, white, and one bright color for an easy-to-wear look. If you sell or gift your jewelry, I'd highly recommend this fail-safe combination. Every woman has a favorite white shirt and black pants or skirt, so it's easy for them to wear this combination. (My Roundabout Necklace not pictured here is another example.)
Tagati Necklace by Denise Yezbak Moore |
Sassy Bracelet by Michelle Mach |
2. When using more than 3 bright colors, choose beads that are the same style and size. Not only does this make shopping easier, but it also makes the finished piece feel balanced.
Bubble Gum Ball Necklace by Erin Prais-Hintz |
Salsa Earrings by Molly Schaller |
3. If you want to mix things up, then go all the way! Use various sizes of beads (keeping most within the same range). Add texture with carved beads and use a mix of matte and shiny finishes. You might even add a few subtly patterned beads like the purple banded agate below. This combination makes for an eclectic—but not chaotic—look.
Carnival Bracelet by Michelle Mach |
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4. Use black chain, cord, and findings (jump rings, eye pins, head pins, clasps) for a dramatic backdrop for your colored beads as shown in my Carnival Bracelet above. Gunmetal findings with their black-silvery finish (as seen in Erin's necklace/bracelet below) or black cord (as seen in Denise's bracelet below) also work well.
Thanks to the Academy by Erin Prais-Hintz |
Tagati Bracelet by Denise Yezbak Moore |
5. Use solid blocks of color for extra drama. Rather than jumble the colors together, separating them into lines or blocks makes for a sophisticated design. This technique reminds me of colorblock dresses.
Devo Bracelet by Denise Yezbak Moore |
Peace Sign Necklace by Michelle Mach |
Do you wear or design jewelry with bright colors?