Using Standard Lengths
by Katie Hacker
Sponsored by: Beadalon®
When you are making jewelry for yourself, you can try it on to determine the best length.
But, when creating jewelry and accessories for other people, there are standard lengths to use as a guide.
Standard jewelry lengths are:
Choker: 15-16"
Princess necklace: 18-20"
Matinee necklace: 23-27"
Bracelet: 7"
Anklet: 9-10"
Standard necklace lengths can also give you an idea of what type of neckline would look best. Princess-length necklaces work with a variety of necklines, including scoop, V and boat neck. Matinee-length necklaces look good with turtlenecks and button-downs.
Use a bead board to help determine the length of a design as youre beading. A bead board also lets you see what a design will look like before you string it. That way you don't have to re-string the entire design if you find out that you don't have enough beads to complete the pattern you have in mind.
Use the measurements on the outside of the bead board to determine (in inches) how long a design in the outer channel will be. The numbers along the inside indicate the length of a design in the inner channel in centimeters. For example, a pattern that reaches 7 1/2 on both sides in the outer channel would make a 15" necklace. Once you add a 1 clasp, the necklace will be 16 long, which is standard length for a choker.
There are also standard lengths for other accessories, like eyeglass chains and purse straps. Eyeglass chains are typically 22-32. Purse straps range from 18 for a handbag to 32 for a shoulder bag. A badge lanyard, like health workers and teachers often wear, is typically 28-32 long.
For more information about necklines and necklace lengths, look for the book 30-Minute Beading by Katie Hacker, published by Hot Off the Press.
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