DIY Washer Necklace Tutorial with Alcohol Inks

Learn how to make a beautiful alcohol ink washer necklace in no time. Each one is a work of art and is incredibly easy to create.

I've made many projects with alcohol inks. (see list below) The thing I love most about them is how unique the look is every time you work with them. Also, you basically can't go wrong as they always come out looking beautiful.

I hadn't tried making washer necklaces yet. But I have used alcohol inks on metal tins so I know these would turn out beautiful.

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How to Make an Alcohol Ink Washer Necklace

Start by wiping the metal washers with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) to remove any dirt, grease or debris. You'll want to do this with both the larger and small washers.

Next, start playing with the inks.

Drop a few colors around the washer. Here I used purple, blue, and a blue-green color.

Take a cotton swab and dab color all over the washer.

Note: You may want to wear gloves as the inks are messy. You can remove it with the rubbing alcohol but it's pretty rough on your hands.

Continue to add more as you like.

Try spraying a little isopropyl alcohol on top and watch the color disperse and create a pretty texture.

You can also let the colors meld and flow into each other.

Or completely cover the washer with one color. Then add more or leave it as is.

If you hate it, simply wipe the ink all off with a paper towel and some isopropyl alcohol and start over.

When you are finished allow the washers to dry for several hours or overnight.

Then use some spray varnish to protect them. Follow the directions and be careful not to get too close. You could also use a brush on varnish or resin for the top.

After the varnish is dry you can use any kind of cording you like to finish the necklace. Cut a piece a little longer than you think you'll need.

Fold it in half and thread the loop from the top of the two washers. Then thread the ends through the loop and pull. (see the images above)

I just tied mine in at the back of my neck. However, you could add necklace clasps or "findings" to the ends that you can find in a craft store. Some are called cord ends, some lobster claws etc. Here's a basic video showing you one way to add a clasp to the ends of the cord.

They are so pretty and look even more vibrant when they catch the light. It's just another fun project to spend an afternoon creating with some great music or share it with a friend.