How to Make Homemade Necklaces That Native Americans Wore

You can make a necklace similar to those that Native Americans wore right at home. Many Native American tribes such as the Hopi utilized natural materials such as crops and stones in their jewelry making. Corn necklaces are a perfect place to start. Corn is an important symbol to many different Native American peoples. A corn necklace is easy to make and you'll have a homemade piece of jewelry that is rich in Native American history.

Instructions

1

Purchase Indian corn from your local supermarket or florist. It is most readily available during the fall season.

2

Decide on the color of your necklace. The colors vary in Indian corn. You can choose a solid red necklace which will look like garnet or you can mix several different colors of corn for a completely unique necklace.

3

Cut the ears of corn in half using a sharp knife or break them apart using your hands. They will be easier to work with this way.

4

Gently separate the kernels from the cob. Be careful not to damage the kernels since they will be serving as your beads and you want them as intact as possible.

5

Place the kernels into a large bowl of water and allow them to soak for one day. The kernels need to soften so you can string thread through them.

6

Dry the corn kernels with a paper towel. Cut a piece of strong thread at the desired length for your necklace. Insert the thread into the needle.

7

String each kernel of corn onto the thread using the needle. Continue threading until the necklace is at its desired length.

8

Tie the two loose ends together with a strong knot and you will have a gorgeous Native American corn necklace.