Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Softsoap Gift Basket And A Giveaway!

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SoftSoap-Giveaway

Read on to see how you can win a SoftSoap Decor Gift Basket for yourself!

I made up this cute kitchen themed gift basket to have on hand for whenever I need a gift for a friend. I made sure to include a couple of bottles of Softsoap’s new Decor Collection, as it is not only great soap but pretty as well!

At only $2.49 (10fl oz) a bottle, (gorgeous and affordable!) I can definitely put these in all of my gift baskets. The Decor Collection comes in 3 different scents, Peony & Plum, Orchid Petals & Mint Water, and Wild Basil & Lime.

LHS_Decor-Collection


In my gift basket I included 2 bottles of Softsoap, a pair of Woodburned Spoons, A color coordinating Dish Towel, 2 Glittered Coffee Mug & A set of 4 glass magnets. This makes the perfect kitchen themed gift basket and would be great as a house warming gift!


gift basket

gift basket2


gift basket3


Soap provided by SoftSoap. $2.49 (10fl oz)


GIVEAWAY

Win yourself a whole collection of Softsoap’s Décor Collection. Leave a comment on this post by 30th June and you will be in the draw! Tell us why you would like to win!

US residents only.

Comments

  1. Beautiful to look at, unusual and interesting scents… a gift for friends… and one for me

  4. because I bought some of this very soap the other day and I like the scent…I bought the Wild Basil and Lime

  5. I’d like to win because I have never tried these scents before or this new collection.

  7. I would love to win this lovely gift basket so I can share it with my daughter who is having her first baby and my first grandbaby in August. I would like to bless her with this great ‘spa’ basket since she is working long days (everyday) up until the baby is due. What a surprise it will be for her. Thank you for the opportunity!!

  8. Oh, new scents! It would be great to win since the hubby is adverse to trying new things. Especially if he thinks it will be girly! Would love to be able to try these.

  9. I Love Softsoap! These new one look great and I can’t wait to try them. I love your basket….I think I will do one for my daughter and her boyfriend. ..they just moved into their first place together yesterday! 🙂

  10. I would like to win because it seems I’m always running out of hand soap in my house! I didn’t know they had so many choices. Thanks

  11. That’s a cute gift pack! I’ve love to win it so I can gift it to a newlywed friend of mine 🙂

  13. I’d like to win because I just love soap! The Wild Basil & Lime scent sounds wonderful for the kitchen. I always have a bit of a tough time there trying to avoid floral scents so I usually have a citrus scented one by the kitchen sink-I bet the basil adds a nice touch.

  16. I love the Softsoap products and have not seen these. You made a beautiful gift basket with very interesting things in it. The wood burned spoons are adorable.

  18. I would love to win because I am out of soap!! These look so pretty and I am sure they smell great!

  19. I just had two new neighbors move into our small cul-de-sac and another one soon to arrive. This would make the perfect welcome gift for them!

  20. A GREAT idea for a nice gift. How come I can never think of things like this? Ha! Would love to win this!

  22. I love SoftSoap…it is a wonderful product. I would love to win to give myself a birthday present which is in August!

  23. I would like to win because these sound like they smell great, and I didn’t even know they existed!

  25. I am going to visit some friends and staying at their house so this will be a great hostess gift for them

  26. I would love to win these scented hand washing soaps to compare them to what i purchase . Thanks !

  27. I didn’t know softsoap had such pretty bottles. I would love to check out the new product

  28. I needed something else to add to a kitchen wedding gift…hadn’t thought of hand soap…now it is ready to gift. YEA!! Thanks for the idea. ;>) MS

  30. What a great gift addition to a gift basket! The scents sound so appealing I would love to try them all!

  31. I would love to win! I am a hand soap junkie lol! I love it! I guess, since you inspired me, I could, maybe, give some away as gifts, but we will see lol!

  32. I’d love to win because I have a thing about liking great smelling soaps. Apparently I am passing this on to my kiddo because my little gal seems to do a better job washing her hands if the soap smells ‘pretty’.

  33. Adorable gift basket! I love giving gift baskets to friends and family. But this might be one I keep for myself because it’s just too cute!

  35. I’d like to win because these are scents of soap that could go well in our home. I love the names of all of them and would love to try them. Plus, I have a soft spot for anything with peonies.

  37. What a great idea! Would love to win one for myself but I am going to try to make some for gifts

  39. I would love to win because I am obsessed with scented hand soaps and I always have to sniff them all when I see new “flavors.”

  40. I would soooo love to win this gift basket just because it is sooooo Awesome!! & my kitchen is verrrry much in need of some Love! We have been “in process” for past 2 yrs…of remodeling & repairing storm damage to our family room kitchen. This win would definitely make my Kitchen SMILE!!! (& ME tooooo!) giggle….

  41. I would love to win this new soap collection. I really like nice soap and the fragrances you’ve included sound delightful. Thanx for the opportunity to win.

  42. Would love to win it, thinking would make a wonderful gift and my birthday is in a couple days!

  43. Would love to win this basket. Between my 3 kids at home and our 5 grandchildren in/out, we go through a lot of hand soap. Would love to try these new scents!

  45. Oh what a lovely gift basket. I’ve never tried these scents before and I would love to be able to have a good look at those spoons! They look so wonderful!

  46. I would love to win this, I just love the pump soaps. I have not tried any of these scents, it would also help me out, I am on a fixed income. Thank you for the giveaway.

  48. I would LOVE to win these new Softsoaps! I have been using Softsoap for years and love the scents – I have even gotten my Mom using only Softsoap. This giveaway would be a joy to receive … and I’d even share with Mom!! Thanks so much for this chance.

  49. What an awesome idea. I really live the wood burned spoons. You are right that is a great house warming gift idea.

  50. I would like to try the new scents the basil addition makes it seen very special. The gift basket is beautiful idea.

  53. I would like to win because the name of the scents sound like they would cheer me up every time I wash my hands. The whole basket sounds beautiful and would cheer me up after my knee replacement that has me feeling down.

  54. I love soft soap ,and these sound like amazing scents. The basil and lime in particular sounds great. Your gift basket is lovely.
    I’d love to use these in my downstairs powder room . It’s our most public bathroom 😉

  57. I’m excited about all the new fragrance. I’d love to win the basket to go in my bathroon!

  58. Hi, Soft soap is the only liquid soap I use all over the house, that is one reason I would like to win the other is I have never seen that collection before and would love to try them all. Thank you and have a great week.

  60. I would love to win this basket. I love to have great scents around me when I need so soothing time. Thanks for the opportunity.

  61. I love Softsoap. I have never seen this collection before. I would love to try the new scents!

  62. I am a Senior Caregiver and I would love to win this just to relieve some stress! Seriously, the new scents sound scrumptious! Especially the Peony and Plum! And the mug is so pretty, perfect for a morning cup of tea!

  63. Love to have… need more aroma therapy!! It’s all about the little things in life! 🙂

  64. I’d like to win because I have been going through a depressing period and I would like to pamper myself just a little bit.

  65. Wow, coincidentally, just like the lady previous, I too am a home health caregiver, & I would SO appreciate the lovely aromatherapy from the this lovely prize of soaps. I’d also probably put them in the sink all around the house, ’cause they’re not just kitchen soaps! 🙂 Thanks for the chance to win, God bless! 🙂

  66. These soaps sound divine! With summer here and working in the garden, we all need a lot of soap to keep clean.

  69. Like these very much and would like to
    gift this to a good friend going through a
    difficult time. Thanks for the chance to
    win!

  71. As a mom of three small children I out my wants on the back burner often. I would love some grown up soaps along with little goodies like Woodburned Spoons, A color coordinating Dish Towel, 2 Glittered Coffee Mug & A set of 4 glass magnets, it’s the small things that I appreciate 🙂

  74. I like to put out nice and interesting soaps and lotions for our guests to use when vising.
    Thanks for the chance to win this!

  75. I use Softsoap all the time and I like to have gift baskets on hand in case I need one for a last minute gift.

  77. I would love to win this basket and gift it to my daughter who is raising 4 boys and never has time for herself.

  79. I would love the scents, and my husband broke my favorite coffee mug so I need a new one…<3

  81. I would love to win to try it and see how it feels on my skin. Thanks for the opportunity.

  84. I use soft soap these scents would be nice to try BUT what I really love and would be thrilled to win are the wood burned spoons they are great cute and pretty. Thank you for the great give away chance.

  85. Soft Soap is in all my soap dispensers — it’s the best! I’d love to share these new scents with friends — what a lovely gift they would make!

  87. Would like to win these because I havent tried these scents yet and the packaging is very pretty. Thank you for the chance.

  89. I would very much like to win this because I absolutely LOVE everything with a citrusy scent.

  90. Have always loved softsoap would love to try the new ones , very confident that they would be great

  92. I would love to try this new product by SoftSoap!The bottle design is very attractive, and I like their products.

Have you read?

Necklace Length Guide For Handmade Jewelry Makers

Choosing the right necklace length can make a huge difference to how a handmade necklace looks and feels. You can use beautiful beads, the perfect clasp, and the prettiest pendant in the drawer, but if the necklace length is wrong, it may not sit the way you imagined.

This necklace length guide is designed for beginner jewelry makers who are making beaded necklaces, pendant necklaces, pearl necklaces, charm necklaces or layered jewelry at home. It covers the most common necklace lengths, where they usually sit, how to measure yourself, and how to adjust the length for different beads and pendants.

If you are new to handmade jewelry, you might also like this wire necklace tutorial or this DIY birthstone necklace.

Why Necklace Length Matters

Necklace length affects comfort, style and wearability.

A necklace that is too short may feel tight. A necklace that is too long may disappear under clothing or sit awkwardly with a pendant. A heavy beaded necklace may need a different length than a delicate chain.

When you are making jewelry by hand, you have the advantage of custom sizing. That means you can make a necklace that suits the wearer rather than relying on a standard shop-bought length.

And honestly, that is one of the nicest things about handmade jewelry. It can actually fit the person it is made for.

Standard Necklace Length Chart

Here is a simple guide to common necklace lengths for adults.

Necklace StyleApprox. LengthWhere It Usually Sits
Collar12–14 inchesHigh around the neck
Choker14–16 inchesClose to the base of the neck
Princess17–19 inchesAround the collarbone
Matinee20–24 inchesBelow the collarbone
Opera28–34 inchesLower on the chest
Rope36 inches or longerLong, layered or wrapped

These are general measurements. Body shape, neck size, clothing and bead size can all change where a necklace sits.

Collar Necklace Length

A collar necklace usually measures around 12 to 14 inches and sits high around the neck.

This length works best for:

  • delicate chain necklaces
  • tiny beads
  • layered chokers
  • formal styles
  • open necklines

Collar necklaces need to fit carefully because there is not much room for error. Always measure the wearer before making one.

If using beads, choose small beads that curve comfortably around the neck. Large beads can make a collar necklace feel too tight.

Choker Necklace Length

A choker is usually around 14 to 16 inches and sits close to the base of the neck.

Chokers are popular for:

  • simple bead strands
  • velvet ribbon necklaces
  • small pendants
  • pearl chokers
  • seed bead necklaces

For comfort, add a short extender chain if possible. This gives the wearer a little flexibility and makes the necklace easier to fit.

Chokers are lovely, but they are not very forgiving if the measurement is wrong. Measure first, bead second.

Princess Necklace Length

A princess necklace is usually around 17 to 19 inches and sits near the collarbone.

This is one of the most popular necklace lengths because it works with many outfits and styles. It is a good choice for beginner beaded necklaces because it is comfortable, versatile and easy to wear.

Princess length works well for:

  • simple beaded necklaces
  • birthstone necklaces
  • pearl necklaces
  • pendant necklaces
  • charm necklaces
  • everyday handmade jewelry

If you are not sure what length to make, an 18-inch necklace is often a safe starting point.

Matinee Necklace Length

A matinee necklace is usually around 20 to 24 inches and sits below the collarbone.

This length is lovely for:

  • larger beads
  • gemstone necklaces
  • layered jewelry
  • office outfits
  • longer pendant designs
  • statement bead necklaces

Matinee necklaces give a little more space for feature beads or a pendant. They can also be more comfortable for people who do not like necklaces sitting close to the neck.

Opera Necklace Length

An opera necklace is usually around 28 to 34 inches and sits lower on the chest.

Opera length necklaces work beautifully for:

  • long pearl strands
  • dramatic bead designs
  • evening jewelry
  • layered necklaces
  • slip-over styles without clasps

Because this length is longer, you may need more beads than expected. Check your bead count before you start, unless you enjoy the suspense of running out halfway through.

Rope Necklace Length

A rope necklace is usually 36 inches or longer.

This length can be worn long, doubled, knotted or layered. It works well with lightweight beads, pearls and chains.

Rope necklaces are very versatile, but they can be heavy if made with large glass or gemstone beads. For comfort, choose lighter materials or space heavier beads with chain.

How To Measure Necklace Length At Home

The easiest way to work out necklace length is to use a soft measuring tape.

Wrap the tape around the neck where you want the necklace to sit. Add extra length depending on the style and comfort level.

If you do not have a soft tape measure, use a piece of string or yarn, then measure it with a ruler.

When making a necklace for someone else, ask for their preferred necklace length if possible. If it is a surprise gift, choose a standard princess length or add an extender chain.

Remember To Include The Clasp

When measuring handmade necklaces, remember that the clasp, jump rings and extender chain add length.

For example, if you want an 18-inch finished necklace, the beaded section may need to be slightly shorter depending on your clasp.

Before crimping or finishing the necklace, lay the whole piece flat and measure from end to end.

This little step can save you from making a necklace that is accidentally longer than planned.

How Bead Size Affects Necklace Length

Large beads take up more space around the neck because they sit away from the body. This means a necklace made with large beads may feel shorter than the same length made with tiny seed beads.

If you are using chunky beads, add a little extra length for comfort.

As a rough guide:

  • tiny seed beads need little extra length
  • 4mm–6mm beads work well with standard lengths
  • 8mm–10mm beads may need extra length
  • large statement beads often need more room

This is especially important for chokers and collar necklaces.

How Pendant Size Affects Necklace Length

A pendant changes where the visual focus of the necklace sits.

Small pendants usually work well on 16 to 18-inch necklaces. Larger pendants often look better on 20 to 24-inch necklaces because they have more room to hang.

If the pendant is heavy, use strong chain, beading wire or cord. A delicate chain may not be suitable for a large pendant.

For more necklace inspiration, this DIY birthstone necklace is a good example of a simple pendant-style handmade necklace.

Best Necklace Lengths For Layering

Layered necklaces look best when each necklace has a clear gap between them.

Try this simple layering formula:

  • 16-inch choker
  • 18-inch princess necklace
  • 22-inch matinee necklace

Or:

  • 18-inch small pendant
  • 24-inch beaded necklace
  • 30-inch long chain

When layering handmade necklaces, vary the bead size, chain texture or pendant shape so the necklaces do not tangle as easily.

Best Necklace Length For Handmade Gifts

If you are making a necklace as a gift and do not know the wearer’s exact size, an 18-inch necklace with an extender chain is usually a practical option.

For handmade gifts, consider:

  • 18 inches for everyday necklaces
  • 20 inches for relaxed pendant necklaces
  • 24 inches for larger beads
  • adjustable cord for casual styles
  • extender chain for flexibility

A small extender chain is one of the easiest ways to make a handmade necklace more gift-friendly.

Necklace Length Tips For Different Necklines

Different tops suit different necklace lengths.

Crew Neck

Try longer necklaces, pendants or matinee lengths that sit below the neckline.

V-Neck

Try a pendant necklace that follows the V shape. Princess length often works well.

Scoop Neck

Try shorter necklaces, chokers or layered beads.

Button-Up Shirt

Try a princess necklace, small pendant or layered chain.

Turtleneck

Try longer matinee, opera or rope necklaces that sit over the fabric.

Of course, jewelry rules are really more like suggestions. If you love how something looks, wear it.

Common Necklace Length Mistakes

Forgetting The Clasp Length

Always measure the full necklace from end to end, including clasps and jump rings.

Making Chokers Too Tight

Chokers need comfort room. Add an extender chain if possible.

Using Large Beads Without Adding Extra Length

Large beads make necklaces feel shorter. Add extra length for comfort.

Not Checking Pendant Placement

A pendant may sit higher or lower than expected depending on the necklace length.

Guessing Gift Sizes

If unsure, choose a flexible length and add an extender chain.

Handmade Necklace Ideas By Length

16-Inch Necklace

Great for chokers, seed bead strands, tiny pearls and delicate charm necklaces.

18-Inch Necklace

Perfect for beginner beaded necklaces, birthstone necklaces and everyday pendants.

20–24-Inch Necklace

Lovely for gemstone beads, larger pendants and relaxed handmade jewelry.

30-Inch Necklace

Great for long bead strands, slip-over necklaces and boho-style designs.

36-Inch Necklace

Ideal for rope necklaces, layering, knotting or wrapping.

More Jewelry Making Ideas

Once you understand necklace lengths, your handmade jewelry will fit better and look more intentional. Try making a simple beaded necklace, then use leftover beads to create matching earrings or a bracelet.

For more beginner jewelry inspiration, see this easy silk thread earrings tutorial, this wire necklace tutorial, and this DIY wrap jewelry project.

A good necklace length guide is one of those practical references worth keeping nearby. It helps you make handmade jewelry that not only looks pretty on the table, but actually sits beautifully when worn.