Just like you can never have too many shoes (unless of course they can’t fit in your closet), you can never have too much jewelry (seriously, just buy another jewelry box; it can’t take up that much room). Regardless of how many baubles you’ve collected, you will always find a pair of earrings or a necklace that adds something new to a particular item of clothing. Jewelry exponentially expands your wardrobe, with each new combination of accessories giving new life to boring or over-worn outfits. Wearing clothing without jewelry is like eating a sundae without toppings: sure it still tastes great, but in the back of your mind you know it could taste like heaven. Jewelry is the all-important hot fudge, sprinkles, and whipped cream that make a scoop of vanilla ice cream divine. But a never-ending collection of jewelry doesn’t come cheap; even inexpensive costume jewelry can add up when you’re buying jewelry boxes full of it.

So what’s the solution? How do you build a collection of stylish jewelry for every outfit and occasion without breaking the bank? Get crafty! You can easily make beautiful jewelry yourself, and we’ve got an entire new eBook full of free beading patterns to prove it. Jewelry for You! How to Make Handmade Beaded Bracelets and Necklaces is a free eBook with over 30 pages of jewelry making projects from Consumer Crafts and Crafts Unleashed. This downloadable eBook has everything from delicate beaded bracelets to chunky statement necklaces, and even a few beaded earring patterns!

The cover of the Jewelry for You! eBook boasts a bold but versatile bib necklace decorated with fabric roses and ribbon. This necklace (p.16) would glam up a plain white top in a casual setting or add a gorgeous accent to a black dress for a more formal event. Likewise, the chunky multi-strand disc necklace on page 32 adds a brightness to any outfit and easily transitions from work to parties. If you like something a little more subdued for everyday wear, try one of our simple beaded bracelets, like the Get a Blue Clue bracelet and earrings (p.10) or the crystal pearl prayer bracelet (p.8).

Some of my favorite projects in Jewelry for You! How to Make Handmade Beaded Bracelets and Necklaces are the trendy pendant necklaces. These necklaces are so cute and fashionable that no one will ever know you made them yourself. The distressed wooden pendant necklace (p. 18) capitalizes on the popularity of owls and the “It’s Easy Being Green” necklace and earring ensemble (p. 30) lend a rustic feel to earth-toned outfits. However, if you’re looking for something with a classic beauty that will never go out of style, I suggest the floating pearl necklace (p. 27). Its timeless elegance is perfect for every occasion, from vacuuming your carpet in heels (a la June Cleaver of course) to hobnobbing with European royalty.

Enhance your jewelry collection today by downloading the free Jewelry for You! eBook and getting started on those beading projects! Your wardrobe will thank you.