Crafts-Hobbies Vivian | 10 Feb 2010 09:37 pm
More Basic Bead Stringing
Once you’ve chosen a basic bead stringing material from the endless list of options out there in the beading world, you then have to consider some of the other components of bead stringing:
1. Select one or a combination of several stringing methods:
?Slide the beads on the string and tie the ends together.
?Slide the beads on the string and add a clasp.
?Knot between each bead if using thin synthetic or natural threads.
?Use crimp beads for security when attaching a clasp.
2. Choose a beading needle. (You may not even need one!)
?With flexible strings and small beads, try a big eye needle–two pieces of steel joined at the ends to form a single needle. The large eye closes to fit through the beads. Big eye needles can also be used with non-traditional stringing materials, such as ribbon or yarn.
?Twisted needles are made from flexible wire that has been doubled over and twisted together, with a little loop left in the end that forms a collapsible eye. They are very flexible and easy to thread.
?For small beads (especially seed beads) and when using thread to string your beads on, use a beading needle. They resemble sewing needles but are usually longer and thinner. The sizes of needles are indicated by number; the most commonly used being #10 and #12. Beading needles differ from ordinary sewing needles because the eye is narrower to allow passage through a bead. The higher the number, the smaller the needle’s diameter.
?Less flexible beading materials (like wire) require no needle, as the beads will slide right on your string.
3. Select a basic bead-stringing surface to keep your beads from traveling:
?A great tool for laying out your design is a beading board. Just line beads up and insert your stringing material.
?A beading tray works in a more low-tech way. Pour your beads in the tray, line them up along the curved edge, string, and pour leftover beads back in their container.
?A bead mat helps prevent beads from rolling off your work surface and provides a cushion for your hands.
?The most accessible surface is simply a low-pile towel or a square of felt. Your beads don’t roll around, and clean up is easy.
?Planning on stringing seed beads? Check out a seed bead spinner. Just give the tool a twirl, stick in your threaded needle, and the beads slide on.
Basic bead stringing isn’t hard. Just pick your stringing material, beading method, a needle if needed, and a surface to work on. But first, get yourself some great beads!
Do you want to learn more about how I do it? Get more information here: How To String Beads
You can also find everything you need for beading projects. Click here: Bead Supplies
Merrilee Gasaway writes full time in the crafting industry.