Five Ways To Boy-Proof A Necklace!

So check this out.  A fiercely unique necklace, for a really cool six year old boy.

Some might think it's too complex for a six year old.  But they would be wrong!  Allow me to explain.

Recently, my nephew discovered I make jewelry.  As always when home visiting, I was handing out baubles to various friends and relations, and for some reason Eli suddenly picked up on the fact.  This is what happened next, word for word.

A challenge indeed.  For those of you with personal knowledge of the brain of a six year old, you will understand when I state: if I were to leave out one single thing on this list - one snake, for example, or that all-important red bead - there would be HECK to pay.

It took some thought.  It took some trail and error.  I think I finally got it...let's look at the instant replay, shall we?

For the five ways I built this necklace to be practically boy-proof, read on!



1. Use nylon cord. 

It can get wet, it's super tough and you can melt the ends so they won't fray.

2.  Avoid glass beads. 

Plastic, metal and wooden beads are gonna be the way to go!  Note: if you use painted wooden beads, check for colorfastness, in case they go under a sprinkler or something.

3. Use split rings.  

Like mini versions of keychain rings, they won't come apart like jump rings can.


4.  Sand off any really sharp bits.

Holy Peter Benchley, Batman!  These shark teeth were dangerous!  Use a metal file, sandpaper or an emery board - just to take the edge off.

And finally,

5. Wear with adult supervision.

                             


As with all kid jewelry, it should only be worn when a vigilant adult is present, in case of snags or getting caught around a child's neck.

Consider these tips next time your budding jewelry designer requests a necklace, and let me know how it works out!



An interesting little side note!  One of my early efforts turned out like this:

It didn't say "boy" to me.  Dude, I would totally wear that one!  Dragon Con, Renaissance Faire or moody Goth-flavored coffee shop, anyone?

Anywhoo.  I took it apart and added big chunky wood beads and some blue and green 'pointers.'  And then it looked like what I imagined Eli imagined...

I suuuure hope he likes it.

P.S. I am actively dreading his next commission, which will no doubt include a radio controlled Godzilla, two working Light Sabers and six gold-plated Ewok toenails.