How to make African waist beads at home

We show you a step-by-step process on how to make African waist beads at home as a beautiful fashion accessory in this article.

Waist beads are a traditional African accessory that comprises small glass beads on a string or wire worn around the waist or hips. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, and may also comprise decorative stones, crystals, or charms.

Waist beads have been worn for centuries by women in different West African cultures. Over the years, they’ve become famous among women in the West. They’re also known as belly beads, waistline beads, or beaded waist chains.

The history of waist beads dates back to the 15th century.

In Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and other West African countries, waist beads are a symbol of femininity, fertility, sensuality, and spiritual well-being. Today, in both Africa and abroad, women use waist beads for aesthetic and practical purposes.

Some of the reasons women wear waist beads in these modern times include:

• Weight management
• To signify the transition into a new age
• To enhance intimacy and boost fertility
• To promote the African heritage and pride
• To help with posture
• To wear as a fashion accessory

Items needed to make the waist beads

• String
• Scissors
• Needle
• Barrel clasp (optional)
• Any beads of your choice.
• Measuring tape

Procedure

Depending on the size of the beads, you may need to use the needle, but if the bead is too small, you can just directly attach the beads to the string.

• Measure your waist depending on where you want your beads to stay (above the waist, the waist, or below the waist).
• Use the measuring tape to cut out the size of the string to suit your measurement. Remember to leave a little extra for when you want to tie the strings at the end.
• If you are using a needle, tie the string to the needle and simply attach the beads one by one to the needle and slide it down. Keep adding the beads based on the pattern or design you would like.
• If you are not using a needle, simply attach the beads one by one to the string and slide it down. Keep adding the beads based on the pattern or design you would like.
• When your pattern is ready, attach the beads to the stopper using the opening provided.

your beautiful waist bead is ready!