Inspired by this post on designing a nursing necklace, two Breastfeeding 1-2-3 readers crafted their own nursing necklaces! Check out the lovely creations of Hobo Mama (photo and discussion) and Digiscrappin’ Life (photo and discussion). Thanks for posting pictures, ladies!

Have you been inspired by any of the following do-it-yourself projects?

~ Nursing Cover
~ Knitted Nursing Tank Top
~ Pullover Crew Neck Baby Bib
~ Baby Bib with Neck Ties
~ Ring Sling
~ Nursing Necklace
~ Nursing Pads
~ Baby Booties
~ Cloth Diapers
~ Nursing Pillow, Nursing Shirt, Nursing Bra and Pumping Bra, Cloth Diapers, and More

Email me a picture and I will post it here sometime! Or write up your own post and send me the link! Or just leave a comment — I love hearing feedback on the projects.

Nursing necklaces serve the dual purpose of giving hip mamas a bit of style while offering a distraction for nurslings who like to explore with their hands while they nurse. (My first daughter liked to give me a “dental exam” with her hand in my mouth; my second has given my hair a tug or two).

Nursing necklaces retail on the web anywhere from $13.50 to $125 plus shipping, but it would be a fun project for a mother or even a mother and her older children to make bead necklaces at home. There are several bead stores on-line. Your local bead store will carry beads for every budget including high-end beads, while craft stores such as Jo-Ann Fabrics and Michaels will offer less expensive choices. For beading techniques, design ideas and projects, visit one of the many jewelry craft sites available. I’ve added some safety tips for nursing necklaces as well and a free necklace design and step-by-step instructions.

If you’d rather shop for a ready-made necklace on-line, here’s a list of retailers selling nursing necklaces from U.S. $13.50-$125: Read more