Eyeglass chain holders are one of those accessories that make life just a little easier for us readers. They help keep our glasses from becoming lost under couch cushions or left behind at the office.
That said, commercially available eyeglass holders are not always the most fashionable - especially ones purchased from drugstores. The good news for creative types is that it’s simple and fun to construct your own eyeglass chain at home to match your unique style.
This step-by-step tutorial will teach you how to make an eyeglass chain. Perfect for traveling, homemade DIY chains make exceptional gifts for friends and family.
Required Supplies to Craft a Beaded Eyeglass Chain
You can find all materials needed for eyeglass chains at your local crafting store. You will most likely have leftover supplies and will be able to make multiple holders.
To craft your own eyeglass chain holder, you will need the following supplies:
- Beading Wire: You can use any beading wire of your choice.
- Needle-Nose Pliers: Any flat-nose or needle-nose pliers will work.
- Scissors: You will want to source a sharp pair of scissors for cutting your wire to size.
- Assorted Beads of Your Choice: Get creative and use different colors, shapes, and styles to express your personality.
- 2 Crimp Beads: These are used to hold the beads in place.
- 2 Rubber Eyeglass Temple Holders: These attach to the ends of your temples to hold your glasses in place. You can find great options on Etsy or Amazon.
- Eyeglasses: You will need a pair of glasses to test out your new eyewear chain holder.
- Ruler or Measuring Tape: This will help with cutting your wire to the appropriate length.
DIY Eyeglass Holder Directions: Step by Step
Time Required: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Beginner
Total Cost: $10
Step 1: Organize Your Supplies
Before you dive into crafting your new eyeglass holder chain, it is important to get yourself organized.
First, you will want to determine how you want your glasses chain to look. Think about what colors you want to incorporate into your design and how you will arrange them.
Once you have decided on the look and feel of your glasses holder, neatly arrange and organize your scissors, beads, crimp beads, temple holders, wire, and pliers on your workspace to keep it tidy.
Step 2: Cut Beading Wire to Desired Length
Next, you’ll want to cut the beading wire to an appropriate length. The length of your wire should be long enough to be comfortable while your glasses are resting on your face and when they are hanging around your neck. Most people find that 25” to 30” is best.
Step 3: Add a Crimp Bead and Eyeglass Temple Holder
After cutting your wire to the correct size, you will want to add a crimp bead and temple holder to one end of the beading wire. To do this, you will need to slide a crimp bead onto the wire, followed by the end of the eyeglass temple holder. Then, thread the end of the wire back through the crimp bead to create a loop. Use your pliers to clamp the crimp bead closed.
Step 4: Add Your Beads
Next, you will want to carefully add your beads to the wire. This is your chance to be creative - add any colors, shapes, or materials you would like. Once you have filled the entire piece of wire up with beads, continue to the next step.
Step 5: Add Last Crimp Bead and Temple Holder
Once you have finished adding your beads, attach your last crimp bead and temple holder to the end of the wire just like you did in step three. You should have a completed eyeglass chain holder at this point.
Step 6: Attach Your Glasses Temples to the Holders
Lastly, gently slide the eyeglass temple holder loop over each arm of your glasses. The fit should be secure, but you should not have to force the elastic loops over your temples.
Step 7: Sit Back and Enjoy Your Work
Finally, try out your new eyeglass chain. Place it over your neck and raise your glasses to your face to ensure a good fit. If something doesn’t feel right, you can always repeat the above steps.
Eyeglass Cords and Chains from ReadingGlasses.com
For those short on time, we offer stylish designs and flattering colors. From luxurious braided leather to soft cotton, browse our collection of quality eyewear holders. Our cords and chains start at $6.99.
