FEATURED PROJECTS

February Birthstone: Amethyst bracelet and earrings

Hammered rectangular links aren’t just connectors; they do double-duty as spacer bars. As such, they don’t hold the strands in place very firmly — which was exactly the look I was going for in this organic bracelet. If you want a more fixed arrangement, substitute a traditional three-hole spacer bar. By Naomi Fujimoto

PRICE: $1.99

March Birthstone: Aquamarine necklace and earrings

Brighten up metal rose beads with seed beads in a fresh shade of blue. These budget-friendly supplies are available at any major craft store or your local bead store. Plus you can use the techniques from this necklace with other tiny beads to make all sorts of pretty, dainty jewelry. By Emily Clayton

PRICE: $1.99

A pattern of attached rings in Fourth of July colors is so fun to make, you'll probably want to string several necklaces in other slightly less patriotic colors as well. This necklace is inexpensive, so there's no need to feel guilty if you wear it only a few times a year.

Look for even more neat tips in every issue of Bead Style!

For these low-maintenance projects, start with large-link chain. It's perfect for weaving premade rondelle chain into a flat — not bulky — bracelet. The large links also provide a sturdy, stylish base that can accommodate a handful of bezeled pendants. No matter which option you choose, you'll find it super-easy to work with these ready-made findings.

We're "Downton Abbey"-obsessed at my house. When Lady Mary said "I do" to Matthew Crawley, it felt like a perfect pairing of two of my favorite things — weddings and Mary's wardrobe. With this fictional fashion icon in mind, I created an Edwardian-inspired necklace composed of the classics: pearls and crystals. See more bridal jewelry in the May 2013 issue of Bead Style.