It’s been ages since I’ve done a DIY post. They typically don’t perform very well. This isn’t a crafting DIY blog so people generally don’t visit this site for DIY ideas. However, I just had so share this goodness with a super simple, very fast craft I made this past month.
Last week in my June 2025 Clothing Purchases, I shared I purchased a crossbody bag from Quince. I had seen the Clare V. Moyen bag and fell in love. After some research I found there were a few features the Quince bag had that I like better. And it was over $300 cheaper for about the same quality. One thing I wanted for my bag that Quince didn’t have was a variety of Shortie straps. Clare V. has so many cute shortie straps to purchase and add onto your bag. Another place to accessorize? I’m all in! The pearl strap I absolutely loved was sold out everywhere though. Similar options were cheap looking. It got me wondering if I could make my own. After a bit of searching, I found very affordable pearl beads and clips I could use. Here is how I made my own DIY Clare V. pearl strap for under $25!
1. Purchase Materials
The shortie strap measures in at roughly 18″. The strands of beads I purchased were more than long enough for a bag strap and I had a few left over for a keychain. The best part is that you can personalize it to your liking. Here are some cute ones I found at Michaels.
For the DIY Clare V. inspired pearl strap, I used these beads. It took forever to find ones affordable, but large enough for my vision. At $17, one order was the perfect amount. They are NOT plastic. These are real, cultured pearls.
I also order these gold-toned carabiner key rings. They were $6 for a pack of 8. The pair specifically for bag chains is best since the knot will not slip off as you are attaching or detaching it from your bag.
Additionally, I used fishing line (that’s right!). It’s very strong, easier to tie than elastic string, and super affordable. I also used some small black beads I had on hand. For the photos, I am using a pair of the extra carabiner key rings I had and new black floral beads to make a second strap.
2. Prepare the String
To prepare the string, I recommend cutting a piece that is about 2.5x the length you want. So I wanted an 18″ strap and I cut my string about 45″ long. Double the string length for extra strength. Tie one end securely to the carabiner. I always add a few extra knots to be sure.
3. Determine the Pattern
If you are working with multiple colors or types of beads, determine the pattern first to make sure you like it and it is long enough. I purchased 2 strands of these stone floral beads, but had to add round stone beads as spacers between each one to get the length I wanted.
4. String Away
Once your carabiner and string are ready and you have your pattern, string it on. Make sure to string the beads onto both strings for extra strength.
5. Tie it Off
When you are happy with your DIY Clare V. Pearl Shortie Strap, tie off the end and tie it onto the other carabiner. I suggest you loop it around the carabiner a few extra times. To make it look more finished, thread the extra string back through the beads. That way you don’t see the end of the string.
6. Enjoy and Repeat!
The best part about this DIY Clare V. Pearl shortie strap craft is that it should take under 30 minutes and under $25. If you begin to not like it anymore, just cut it up, use the beads for something else and reuse the carabiners to make a new one. It can also be worn as a pretty necklace!
Confident Twosday Linkup
I hope you enjoyed this fun DIY Clare V. Pearl Strap tutorial! Now it’s time for the linkup. Last week’s favorite post was from Kathrine at Kathrine Eldridge who shared 3 ways to style her pretty floral top!
Between Naps on the Porch | I do de Claire | Walking in Memphis in High Heels & The Fashion Canvas | Tuesday Twirl | My Slices of Life | The Style Splash | Curated by Jennifer | Mummabstylish | Shelbee On the Edge | Nancy’s Fashion Style | Momfessionals | Marsha in the Middle
