
What You Need (for one keychain):
- 1 cross or crucifix bead
- 1 large bead (for the Our Father)
- 10 small beads (for the Hail Marys)
- 1 key ring or clasp
- Waxed jewelry thread or sturdy cord (about 20 inches)
- Scissors
Instructions:
- Cut about 20 inches of string. A little extra is fine if you’re unsure.
- Slide the cross to the middle of the string.
- Tie a knot above the cross to keep it in place.
- Put both ends of the string through the large bead (this is the Our Father bead).
- Pull the bead down to the knot near the cross. Tie another knot above the bead to hold it in place.
- Take one small bead and thread both string ends through it.
- Keep adding small beads the same way until you have 10 in a row.
- Leave about ¾ inch of space and tie a knot after the last small bead.
- Tie the loose ends of the string around a key ring or clasp.
- Trim any extra string.
Tips and Variations:
- For a bracelet instead of a keychain, use a clasp and measure the string to fit a wrist.
- Make sure younger children are supervised when using scissors.
- Help younger kids with knots if needed—they can be tricky.
See https://young-catholics.com/871/rosary-slide-keychain/ for more information.