Tips & Tricks

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SPACE YOUR BEADS:

Some types of beads especially semi precious, Swarovski and pearl beads require a spacer between them. There are two options you can choose from - make a simple knot between each bead or use a decorative spacer. I love spacer beads, because they really do make the design more interesting. Depending on your design I would suggest using gold or silver spacers between expensive beads..

USE A BEAD BOARD:

Before attempting any bead project, lay out your jewellery design on a jewellery board. They can be bought from any bead shop that sells beads and beading supplies. Doing this allows you to see how you your design will look when finished and whether it needs more or less to complete. Even when using a beading board it is a good idea to cover the table or area you are working on with a towel. Bead rolling every where will really drive you nuts and if you have a cat, cover your work with another towel. Cats love beads!!!!

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH STRING:

If you are going to use knots in your design,  then make sure you cut your string 4 times longer than your finished project with a few extra cms. Also, you can fold your string twice or even four times to make it stronger. This method is great particularly if you are working with heavy glass/large beads. You don't have to always use white string. There are several types of colours and strings on the market today. 

TIP: If you can't find the colour you want, colour it with a permanent maker.

STRINGS STRETCH: 

Nothing is worse than designing a beautiful necklace and only to find that your string has stretched. To avoid this happening, thread all your beads and let your necklace or bracelet hang for a day or too. Use a bead clamp to secure as you let it hang. Final knots are very important, so use square knots and make sure you tighten them firmly.

TIP: Apply jewellers glue like EA6000 or clear nail polish. Once that dries then cut your loose ends.

BE KIND TO YOUR EYES.

Beading is so addictive and beading for several hours can lead to eye strain, particularly if you are working with seed beads. Always work with good lighting. When I first started beading I used a magnifying light head lamp. Depending on what I am doing 25 years later I still use it. A good desk lamp is very helpful too. Always wear the correct glasses when beading.  

USE LINK TO TECHNIQUES:

You've decided you want to try some new techniques. So, I've included some helpful links to learn some new techniques. If you are wanting more help with beading or  technique feel free to drop me an email at beadeddesignsbydeb@gmail.com and I am more than happy to help you.

LADDER STITCH

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD7duMwakYE

BRICK STITCH

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsqcCzS5hN8

HERRINGBONE STITCH

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4a-1XKH-RBc

TWISTED HERRINGBONE STITCH

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rspV57jA

YOUTUBE is a great source of beading information and tutorials. There are many patterns that are free to try. Check it out and be prepared to enter a whole new world of beading