How to Make a Pony Bead Goldfish (Free Pattern!)

These little pony bead fish are a super easy way to learn 90’s style pony beading. The step-by-step tutorial and simple pattern are perfect for the beginner-est of beginners!

The 90s are back (or at least the aesthetic is), and so are the crafts! And who better to lead you through learning the noble vintage art of pony bead critters than a 90s girl herself? I’ve spend many an afternoon making these little guys, so I know all the tips and tricks.

This pony bead fish is a fantastic place to start if you’re looking to learn. It only uses the basic beading stitch and is pretty small, so you’re practically done by the time you start. And he’s pretty darn cute to boot!

How to Make a Pony Bead Goldfish

Materials

Printable Pony Bead Goldfish Pattern
16 main color beads
1 eye color bead
2 ft of ribbon, string, or yarn
scissors
optional: key ring

Instructions

First, if you want to make this a keychain, start with the optional keychain start. Otherwise, start by threading the first two main color beads onto the string. Push them to the center.

Next, thread a main color bead, the eye bead, and another main color bead onto one end of the string.

Thread the other end of the string through the beads from the other side. You can imagine that the string would make an X through the beads.

Pull on both ends of the string until the beads sit snugly against the first two beads. You may have to push and pull a little at the beads and string to get the beads to lay flat — that’s normal!

Use that same technique to do all the remaining rows. The pattern will tell you how many beads to use per row.

When you finish the last row, tie your fish off using a square knot and trim the ends. He’s ready to play!

Optional Keychain Start

If you’re using a key chain, you will have a different start. Instead of simply sliding the first bead to the center, you will tie the keychain in the center of the ribbon using a square knot.

Your first row will then be done like the other rows, with the ends of the ribbon going through it from opposite sides. From there, it’s just the same as the non-keychain version!