Bead Basics 101. Suzanne McNeill

Oval Faceted Pipe Nuggets

      Same Beads - Different Looks

      Same Style - Different Beads

      What do you do with the left-over beads from the first necklace? Check out the “Same Beads, Different Looks” for that needed inspiration. With just a few beads, you can create your own line of signature pieces.

      Can’t decide which design you prefer? Make all three! Don’t forget these gorgeous pieces make great gifts.

      The versatility of beads is amazing. You can use the same beads to get many different looks or you can mix it up and try the same style with different beads.

      To form different necklace combinations, use several basic beading techniques - such as floating, grouping or dangle beads - within the same group of beads. Try out these fun and fabulous bead combinations in your favorite necklace length to create many beautiful and unique jewelry pieces.

      $$ Saving Money $$

      These options add affordability, versatility and enhance the beauty of your creations.

      Spacer beads allow the necklace to gracefully drape in a beautiful curve.

      Money Saving Tips

      Want to use those special focal beads for your necklace or bracelet project?

      Cut cost by incorporating a variety of lower cost items to accent those special beads. Use seed beads, Silver spacers (tube, daisy, round, oval, or square), Silver beads, E beads, bead caps and so much more to fill in the space while keeping the cost down and showing off those special interest beads.

      Seed Bead Spacers

      Bead Caps and Beads

      Silver Bead Spacers

      Good design includes choosing a suitable string or wire. Weight is always important, because you don’t want your string to break. For example, large, heavy pendants and beads require the strong support of 49-strand wire, silk ribbon or a thick cord. On the other hand, a heavy wire will warp a bracelet made of seed beads.

      In addition to weight, the style of the beads will play an important role in helping you choose the right string. For example, you probably would not string Austrian crystal on a thick stretchy cord, but it may turn out to be the perfect cord for a fun lampwork bead bracelet. Crystals have an elegant look that require an elegant string. Choosing a string that complements the personality of the piece makes the piece more attractive.

      There are many strings to choose from. Don’t be afraid to try a few different ones. For example, light and airy beads look beautiful against sheer ribbon.Trust your instincts to help you find a string that is just right for you.

      Tips:

      For slide knot, cut the cord double to insure you have enough cord to work with and to make the bracelet easy to slide on your wrist and adjust. Cut off the ends after tying the knots.

      Ribbons and cords are finished by knotting the cords inside caps or crimping special ends (ribbon ends, crimp ends, coil ends) that have loops already attached to the crimp closure.

      How to Tie a Slide Knot

      1. Form a loop overlapping the ends. Tie each end to the opposite side of the loop.

      1. Pull ends tightly to secure. Knots adjust length and fit of piece.

      How to Tie an Overhand Knot

      1. Tie like a shoe.

      2. Pull the ends.

      Simple Strings with a Focal Bead

      The design truism “Less is more” certainly applies to jewelry. These simple strings provide a beautiful stage from which the focal bead really shines.

      How to Tie a Lark’s Head Knot

      1. Pass the loop through the hole.

      2. Thread the ends through the loop.

      3. Pull the ends to tighten the loop.