Re-invent your Necklaces with Ribbon

After reading so many bloggers rave about Toast, I requested a catalog (I requested loads of catalogs actually- its such a treat after living abroad to get all that free inspiration right in my mailbox). Toast is like a more sophisticated Anthropologie with prices to match. But it is full of beautiful styling and I found at least one idea to copy with a very minimal investment.



I've been into long, long flapper-ish necklaces in big tangles around my neck and I realized that I have quite a few I don't wear because they are too short. So I added some pretty ribbons to lengthen my favorites. To do this yourself, just choose a thin ribbon, I used organdy,velvet and satin, but thicker silk ribbon would look gorgeous too.


You will need, scissors, ribbon, wire cutters and or needle nosed pliers, and a necklace you want to lengthen. Not pictured, but also handy- a bit of superglue.



First, use your pliers or wire cutters to remove the clasp from the necklace. (If you think you might wear it short again, you can choose a ribbon that will conceal the clasps instead.) Otherwise, make sure to leave at least one jump ring on each side to thread the ribbon through.


Decide how long you'd like your necklace, play with it and try it on before you cut your ribbon.


Cut the ribbon and tie a knot on each side, making sure to leave a long tail if you'd like to add a bow. A dot of super glue as you tie the knot might be a good idea here if your ribbon is slippery like mine was.



Now make a small bow from a continuous piece of ribbon and pinching it between your fingers, and use the tail to tie it on. (If you have a clasp, make sure it is completely disguised.) Repeat on the other side, or leave it asymmetrical to suit your own taste.


Trim extra ribbon from the tail.



Make sure to pile on lots of other necklaces and voila- long wonderful Toast inspired tangles of baubles just in time for your holiday wardrobe. Enjoy!