Shamballa Bracelets
What is Shamballa?
Shamballa bracelets have been around for centuries and became popular in the United States during the spiritual awakening of the 1960s. These unisex accessories can be worn as a reminder of a spiritual path, as an homage to the Tibetan culture or as a fashion accessory.
Modern Shamballa bracelets are based on traditional Buddhist prayer beads used for meditation. The word "Shamballa" represents the mythical kingdom that Tibetan Buddhists believe symbolizes enlightenment, peace and perfection. The continuous circle represents the eternal energy flow of the universe, and the type and color of beads can also hold special meaning.
Shamballa bracelets are created by adding beads between square knots on a macramé bracelet and finishing with an adjustable knot closure. Once you learn the simple knotting technique, the process can be meditative in its simplicity.
Even though only two materials are needed, beads and cord, the style possibilities are endless. Use hemp or waxed cotton cord with wood beads for a natural look. Consider Satinique™ cord and pavé or stardust beads for more eye-catching bling. And gemstones with imitation silk cord are perfect for creating a classic and elegant piece.
The colors of Shamballa bracelets are often associated with the chakras, and worn for the believed metaphysical benefits. Create bracelets to connect with each chakra and you'll easily have an entire line of energy-balancing jewelry. You can offer personalized bracelets by letting customers pick birthstones, favorite colors or a charm.
With so many creative combinations, so few materials needed and an easy, rhythmic construction, Shamballa bracelets are a perfectly balanced jewelry project, and a fun and easy way to get creative. Once you learn the technique, you'll be making an armful of beautiful, meaningful bracelets in no time.
How to Create a Shamballa Bracelet
Jewelry designer Jude Wroblewski explains the steps and jewelry-making techniques needed to learn how to make a woven Shamballa bracelet using cotton cord and your choice of beads.
Instructions
Cut two black 30-inch lengths and two white 30-inch lengths of cotton cord.
Line up the ends of each length of cord, then wrap a piece of tape around them, leaving a 2-inch length of tail. Secure the tail of the cords to a clipboard.
Pass one black length of cord (the working strand) over the anchor strands (white cord) then pass the second strand of black cord over strand 1, under the anchor strands and up through the loop (created by strand 1). Gently pull the knot snug. (This is a half knot.) Reverse the pattern by passing strand 4 over the anchor strands, then pass strand 1 over strand 4, under the base strands and up through the loop.
Continue making approximately 17 alternating square knots encasing both white cords (the resting strands).
Notes:
- Alternate using the left and right black cords as the primary and secondary working strands to keep the bracelet from twisting. If you start consistently with the same strand, the pattern will twist.
- The resting strands will always be encased by the working strands.
String one 12mm bead onto the resting strands, then tie one square knot. Continue to string one 14mm bead onto both white cords then tie two square knots.
String one 14mm bead onto both black cords (now the resting strands) then tie one square knot using the white cords (now the working strands). Continue to string one 12mm bead onto both black cords then tie 17 square knots using the white cords.
Place all four lengths of cord from one side of the bracelet into one crimp end then compress the center of the crimp end to secure the strands.
Tip: For extra security, apply a small amount of adhesive to the crimp end where the cords come in contact.
Trim the excess cord from the crimp end. Pass one jump ring through the crimp end and one half of a clasp, then close.
Repeat to secure and finish the opposite end of the bracelet.
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**Please note that all metaphysical or healing properties listed are collected from various sources. This information is offered as a service and not meant to treat medical conditions. Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® does not guarantee the validity of any of these statements.
