DIY of the Month . . .

So. I've decided that once a month, I'll post a quick lil DIY project here, complete with instructions and pictures the whole shebang (Is it shibang? Shabang? Should I just not use the word at all? I'm at a total loss here, guys.) 

This month, I'll be explaining how to make your own tattoo chokers. These were a huge trend in the 90's and they're coming back in a big way. They look super cute, plus they're really fun and easy to make wow!!1!

Materials : 

- 1mm or thicker stretchy beading cord (e.g. Stretch Magic, available at Walmart) 

- Binder clip

- Scissors 

- Hard surface (e.g. book, binder, table, etc.) 

- Clear nail polish 

- *Optional* Small silver charm 

Step 1 : 

Measure your cord to arm's length. It's also a good idea to leave a little extra after this, to make it easier to finish. Once you've measured your cord, use the scissors to cut it.  

Step 2 : 

Fold the cord in half and secure the folded part to a hard surface using the binder clip. It should look like the picture below. 

Step 3 : 

We're ready to start our choker! To do this, first take one side of the cord and loop it over the other, pulling it up to the top near the binder clip. It's a little hard to explain this step in words, so refer to the diagram below. The blue, or left side of the cord loops over first, followed by the red, or right side. Repeat this until you've reached the end of your cord. Remember, it's very important keep the loops consistent! 

Illustration credit to mirukukeki.blogspot.com 

Step 4 : 

Once you've finished looping, remove the choker from the binder clip, making sure to hold the open end tight. Now is a good time to measure the choker around your neck to ensure a nice fit. Finish the choker by tying the two ends together and applying a clear nail polish over the knot to further secure it. After the polish dries, you're done! Here's what the finished product should look like. 

BONUS STEP! 

If you think your choker needs some accessorizing of its own, add a charm to it! Make sure it's not too big, as this will overpower the delicate design of the necklace. Here are some ideas. 

Alrighty, that's all for this week. I hope you enjoyed this tutorial. If you try it out, comment below and send me pictures! 

Signed,

The Teenaged Adventurer