DIY: Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Rosary

The Rosary, formally known as the “Holy Rosary” or “The Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” is a time-honored and widely practiced prayer method. With just a string of beads and familiarity with a few commonly used prayers and Gospel meditations, one can pray the Rosary anytime, anywhere. The popularity and reverence for the Rosary stem not only from its inclusion of major prayers like the Creed, Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be, but also from its core of 20 Gospel meditations on the life of Jesus. Reciting the Rosary is like strolling through the pages of the Gospel, engaging in a dialogue with God.

The practice of reciting the Rosary is widespread in the Catholic Church, and it is also observed by some Orthodox Christians, Anglicans, and members of other Protestant denominations. The Rosary has its dedicated set of beads, consisting of 59 beads, a crucifix, and a centerpiece. Many faithful purchase Rosary beads from religious stores, but it can be even more meaningful to make them oneself, as they can also serve as small gifts for evangelization. There are various methods for making Rosary beads, including using beads with wire or thread.

Now, let’s learn a simple and easy method for making Rosary beads.

Materials and Tools:

Beads: It is recommended to use beads with a diameter of 6-8mm, totaling 59 beads. Wood, stone, plastic, or pearl beads can be used, as long as they have small holes. It’s good to have a few extra beads as backup. (For clear demonstration purposes, this guide uses 10mm beads.)
Crucifix: 1 piece
Cord: Choose a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing cord, preferably with a diameter that can pass through the small bead holes when folded in half. Chinese knotting cord or jade cord can be used. (This guide uses 2mm diameter knotting cord.)

It is easier to start with two-colored threads. After completing steps 1, 2, and 3, pull the threads tightly to get step 4. Repeat steps 1, 2, 3, and 4 to get step 5.

3.Thread a small bead and tie a square knot. Repeat this process. When threading the beads, use a lighter to burn the end of the thread and pinch it tightly. If using a thread thinner than 1mm, a large needle can also be used.

4.After threading ten small beads, tie three square knots, then thread another bead, and tie three more square knots. This completes the first section. Repeat this process to complete five sections, including ten small beads and four larger spacer beads.

5.Combine the ends of the bead string to form the Rosary circle. Use the double thread to tie 2-3 square knots to secure the circle. Cut off the excess thread and burn the cut ends with a lighter. Thread a bead onto the remaining thread and start the final knotting.