Graduation Bracelets: Name + Year — Step-by-Step Guide

Short on time? Shop the collections first: Letter Beads · Number Beads (0–9) · Heishi 6 mm.

Why “Name + Year” bracelets work for graduations

They’re personal, fast to assemble, and easy to match to school colors. Using letter beads for the name and 0–9 number beads for the year (e.g., 2026) keeps the design clean and readable.

Materials (what you’ll need)

  • Letter Beads — cube 7 mm or round 6–10 mm
  • Number Beads — digits 0–9 for the class year
  • Heishi 6 mm spacers — comfort + color blocking
  • Elastic/cord (choose diameter to fit bead hole)
  • Optional charm(s) one 20 mm gumball bead for a focal
  • Scissors, beading needle (optional), clear-drying glue (optional)

Size & hole-size tips

Most name/year builds use elastic. Check each product’s hole size and match your cord for an easy feed. 

  • 7 mm cube = crisp, block look; very readable
  • 7 mm round = softer profile; mixes well with spacers
  • Plan thread path: letters → spacer → year → spacer to center the design

Color ideas (school themes)

  • Classic contrast: white/black letters + black/white numbers
  • School colors: alternate Heishi 6 mm spacers in two hues
  • Metallic pop: keep letters monochrome; swap one spacer for a small charm

Design templates

  • Name + Year: [HEISHI] NAME [HEISHI] 20 26 [HEISHI]
  • Initial + Year: [HEISHI] A [HEISHI] 20 26
  • Mascot + Year: [HEISHI] NAME [HEISHI] 20 26 [HEISHI] 🐾

How to make a Graduation “Name + Year” bracelet

  1. Measure & cut. Wrist size + 10–12 cm extra for knotting.
  2. Pre-plan the layout. Dry-fit letters for the name; add Heishi 6 mm spacers; pick the four digits for the year.
  3. String the beads. Feed letters first, then spacer, then year digits, then spacer. Use a beading needle if the cord is soft.
  4. Test fit & tie. Check tension, tie a secure knot (surgeon’s knot works well). Add a tiny drop of clear glue if desired.
  5. Trim & tuck. Trim ends; roll the knot into a bead or under a spacer for a clean finish.

Bulk & refills for events

Graduation runs eat vowels and popular digits fast. Keep A/E/I/O/U handy with vowel packs and extra 0,1,2,5 for the year. Start at Letter Beads and Number Beads.

FAQs

Which bead size is best? 7 mm cube for crisp block text; 6–10 mm round for a softer look or smaller wrists.

Will these fit elastic cord? Most do—check each product’s hole size and match the cord diameter.

Can I buy single letters or individual digits? Yes—see Letter Beads for singles and Number Beads for digits and sets.

Ready to build your grads’ stacks? Start with Letter Beads and add 0–9 Number Beads. Finish with Heishi 6 mm spacers for comfort and color.

 

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