When you’re constantly taking off and putting on your reading glasses, it’s easy to set them down and lose track of them. One simple solution to this irritating issue is to connect your reading glasses to an eyeglasses chain. The great thing about a glasses chain is that it’s easy to make a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) version that’s personalized to your style.

Follow our simple DIY tutorial below to create your very own beaded glasses chain!

Supplies Needed to Make a Beaded Eyeglass Chain
  • A spool of beading wire or nylon cord
  • Your choice of assorted beads
  • 2 crimp beads (available at craft stores — similar here)
  • 2 rubber eyeglass temple holders (available at craft stores — similar here)
  • Scissors
  • Flat-nose pliers
Directions to Make a DIY Beaded Eyeglass Chain:

Step 1: Cut beading wire or cord to a comfortable length
Make sure to choose a length that is comfortable when the glasses are on your face and around your neck, similar to a lanyard. For most people, this will be around 30 inches.

Step 2: Add a crimp bead and eyeglass temple holder
First, thread one end of the wire or cord through one of the crimp beads and rubber eyeglass holder. Then, thread the wire or cord back through the crimp bead to create a loop. Pull the wire or cord through so the eyeglass holder and crimp bead are adjacent and the loop tightens. Close the crimp bead with your pliers.

Step 3: String on your beads
First, decide on a pattern for your beads, if you want one! String the beads on, leaving enough room at the end of the wire for the other crimp bead and eyeglass temple holder.

Step 4: Add the second crimp bead and eyeglass holder
As you did with the other side, thread one end of the wire or cord through one of the crimp beads and eyeglass holder. Then, thread the wire or cord back through the crimp bead to create a loop. Pull the wire or cord through so the eyeglass holder and crimp bead are adjacent and the loop tightens. Close the crimp bead with your pliers. If there is extra wire or cord, tuck it through the beads or trim.

Step 5: Slip glasses chain ends onto your glasses

Step 6: Enjoy!

No time for crafting? If you’d rather purchase this glasses accessory for your readers instead of making your own, we have affordable glasses chains in a variety of styles.

Shop Eyeglass Chains