Findings are specialized metal beading components used to connect or finish pieces of beaded jewelry. Findings are sold wherever beads are available. Connectors and finishings are two of the most common types of findings, though there are many other types as well. Connectors Connectors are used to connect two parts of a piece of jewelry. […]

A few tools are essential for beading projects. Some you may already own, and others can be bought from any art supply store. Tools for Working with Thread To bead with thread, you need beading needles as well as a few other tools. Beading Needles   View this post on Instagram   A post shared […]

Beads may be strung on thread, cord, or wire. The stringing material you choose depends on the project at hand. When choosing a stringing material, consider its: Ability to hold a knot: Stringing material that knots easily can be finished and closed without using any findings (see Findings Beading Components). Durability: Be sure to choose a material that […]

Beads are often used in decorative applications—most commonly jewelry and home decor. There are many types of beads, all of which differ according to: Material Size Shape Bead Materials A bead’s material affects its color, shape, texture, weight, durability, and cost. The most popular bead materials are: Semiprecious Stones Semiprecious stones, such as agate, amethyst, […]

A bead can be embellished in a variety of ways. Here’s how to make two pieces for your bead: dots and lines, which you may use separately or combined to embellish it. After you’ve finished step 13 of the Related eHow “How to Make Glass Beads,” move on to this eHow. Connecting the Dots Steps: […]

This is a fun activity for a teenager to do, and it also makes a wonderful present. This pattern yields a necklace that measures around 25 inches in length. Steps: 1. Select a chain weight that corresponds to the size of your beads. Choose a small, light chain if you’re using fragile beads. 2. Cut […]

Curtains in author Mark Twain’s Connecticut mansion sparkled with thousands of tiny beads embroidered onto the fabric. For a touch of Victorian elegance, add beads as you sew. Steps: Make a backstitch – begin at the right end of the pattern line. Visualize points 4-3-1-2 an equal distance apart along the line. Bring the needle […]

You only need a few items to complete this necklace. Once you’re done, you’ll have the basic skills necessary to tackle more complex beading and jewelry projects.     Steps: Choose a length for your necklace and purchase that much beading thread, plus a few extra inches. Make sure you have enough beads, including spacer […]

After you’ve mastered the art of making simple spherical glass beads, you can move on to creating beads in a variety of shapes. Here are three of the simplest to make. How to Make a Cylindrical Bead Steps: Begin by making a simple molten bead on a mandrel. The molten bead should be removed from […]

This is a wonderful way to use up those weird beads that tend to accumulate in your bead box all the time. Beading Wire with Beads Steps: A 20-gauge wire is a good choice. Coated jewelry wire, flex wire, or gold- or silver-plated wire can all be used. Cut a 4 inch or longer piece […]