Introduction to Beading Supplies
Beading is a fun and creative hobby that allows you to make beautiful jewelry, accessories, decorations, and more. To get started beading, you'll need a variety of essential supplies, from beads and tools to accessories and storage. Here's an overview of the main supplies used in beading projects.
Types of Beads
Beads come in an endless array of shapes, sizes, colors, and materials. Some common types include:
- Seed Beads - Tiny, uniform beads ranging from 2mm to 4mm.
- Glass Beads - Made from glass and available in all colors and shapes.
- Crystal Beads - Lead glass beads that sparkle.
- Metal Beads - Made from metals like gold, silver, pewter, etc.
- Gemstone Beads - Natural stones like quartz, turquoise, jade, etc.
- Plastic Beads - Lightweight and very affordable.
- Wood Beads - Natural and painted wooden beads.
- Pearls - Natural or cultured pearls.
Threads and Wires
The right thread or wire is essential for stringing and securing beads. Popular options include:
- Nylon Beading Thread - A strong, stretchy thread good for beginners.
- Monofilament - Single-strand fishing line, great for pearls.
- Beading Wire - Flexible wire for stringing beads, comes in different grades.
- Memory Wire - Stiff, coiled wire that holds its shape.
- Braided Wire - Several tiny wires braided together for a flexible, beaded rope.
Findings and Clasps
These components allow you to finish and fasten your beaded creations:
- Clasps - Used to connect the ends of a necklace or bracelet, like lobster clasps, toggle clasps, hooks, crimp ends, etc.
- Jump Rings - Connected components together, like a chain.
- Head Pins and Eye Pins - Used to attach dangles and charms.
- Ear Wires - Attach beads to create earrings.
- Crimps and Crimp Beads - Secure the ends of beading wire.
- Bead Tips - Cover the ends of beading wire.
- Spacers - Decorative beads used to separate main beads.
Tools and Accessories
Beaders use various tools and accessories in their work:
- Pliers - For opening and closing jump rings, clasps, crimps, etc.
- Wire Cutters - Cut wire and trim thread ends.
- Scissors - For cutting thread, wire, and trimming.
- Beading Needles - Long, thin needles for stringing beads.
- Beading Mats - Surface to layout beads and prevents losing them.
- Bead Scoops - Funnels for picking up and pouring beads.
- Beading Looms - Aid in weaving beadwork.
- Thread Conditioner - Prevents tangling of beading thread.
Storage Solutions
Keep your bead stash organized with:
- Bead Boxes - Clear plastic boxes to separate and see beads.
- Bead Trays - Lay out grouped beads by color in the compartments.
- Bead Vials - Plastic vials to store extra small beads and seed beads.
- Tool Rolls - Keep pliers, cutters, and essentials in one roll-up pouch.
With this overview of the major supply categories, you can start collecting everything you need to embark on your beading projects! Refer to this guide when purchasing beads, tools, and accessories.
Threads and Wires for Beading
When creating jewelry or accessories with beads, you'll need something strong, flexible and thin to string the beads together. Thread and wire are essential beading supplies that allow you to secure beads into necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more. Here's an overview of the most common options.
Threads
Threads are lightweight and perfect for beginners learning basic stitches. Popular options include:
- Nylon Beading Thread - A strong, nylon thread with a bit of stretch. Good for starting out.
- Silamide Thread - Made of silk, doesn't fray or twist easily.
- Nymo Thread - Cotton thread that is very sturdy.
- Flex Wire - A flexible, plastic-coated wire that works like thread.
Choosing a Thread
Consider the following when selecting a beading thread:
- Fiber Type - Nylon, silk, cotton, etc. Each has different properties.
- Thickness - Thicker threads hide better but are harder to stitch.
- Wax Coating - Helps reduce tangling and fraying.
- Color - Match or contrast your beads.
Wires
Wires add structure and shape when stringing beads. Common wires include:
- Beading Wire - Flexible, multi-strand wire made of steel, copper, or nylon.
- Memory Wire - Pre-coiled, stiff steel wire that holds its shape.
- Braided Wire - Tiny wires braided together into a beaded rope.
- Satin Cord - Braided satin ribbons sheathed in a wire.
Choosing a Wire
Factors to consider when picking a wire:
- Flexibility - Softer wires are easier to work with.
- Thickness - Thinner wires fit through smaller beads.
- Coatings - Protect wires from rubbing against beads.
- Strength - Harder wires withstand more weight.
With the right thread or wire, you can create beautiful, professional looking jewelry. Experiment with different types for your projects!
Findings and Clasps for Jewelry Making
When making beaded jewelry like necklaces and bracelets, you need components to finish the ends and allow the piece to be worn. These special findings and clasps come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials.
Clasps
Clasps connect the ends of a necklace or bracelet together. Popular options include:
- Lobster Clasps - Spring loaded with a hook on one side and loop on the other.
- Magnetic Clasps - Two magnetic discs that snap together.
- Toggle Clasps - A bar and ring that fasten together.
- Hook and Eye Clasps - A simple hook that latches into a loop.
- Box Clasps - A rectangular box with a latch inside.
Choosing a Clasp
Consider the following when selecting a clasp:
- Security - How well does it fasten? Is there a risk of it opening accidentally?
- Visibility - Will the clasp stand out or blend into the design?
- Size - The clasp should be in proportion to the full piece.
- Material - Match metals and durability.
Jump Rings and Crimps
Other findings like jump rings and crimps are used in finishing jewelry:
- Jump Rings - Connect components like clasps. Come in various metals and sizes.
- Crimps - Flattened metal tubes to secure the ends of beading wire. Need pliers to squash them.
- Bead Tips - Cover crimps for a more decorative look.
Ear Wires and Posts
Turn beaded dangles and charms into earrings with these findings:
- French Ear Wires - Shaped like a U with a curled end.
- Fishhook Ear Wires - Round end with a hook for hanging beads.
- Hoop Ear Wires - Decorative circular hoop.
- Post Earrings - Jewelry findings with a post to insert through pierced ears.
With a variety of clasps, jump rings, crimps and ear wires, you can create professional looking finished jewelry designs that are wearable art!
Must-Have Beading Tools and Accessories
Beading requires some specialized tools to help you string, cut, and fasten materials. Having quality beading tools makes your jewelry making process easier and more professional looking. Here are some must-have supplies:
Pliers
Pliers help you grasp and manipulate small components like ear wires, crimps, and jump rings:
- Chain Nose Pliers - Tapered tip grasps findings.
- Round Nose Pliers - Round tip makes jump ring curves.
- Crimping Pliers - Flattens crimp bead ends.
- Wire Cutters - Cutters may be built into one handle.
Scissors and Cutters
Specialized scissors trim thread and cut wire:
- Beading Scissors - Smaller blades for detailed cuts.
- Flush Cutters - Cuts wire right at the bead with no sharp ends.
Needles
Beading needles have long, thin shafts to string small beads:
- English Beading Needles - Standard sharp needle for most projects.
- Big Eye Needles - Has a larger hollow opening for thicker threads.
- Tapestry Needles - Blunt tip won't pierce fabrics/surfaces.
Other Handy Accessories
- Bead Mats - Surface to layout components and prevent losing beads.
- Bead Scoops - Funnel beads into threads and wires.
- Thread Conditioner - Prevents tangling of beading thread.
- Beading Loom - Aid in weaving beadwork.
- Storage - Cases to organize tools and beads.
Investing in quality tools will make beading easier and expand the jewelry you can create. Look for tools made of durable, corrosion-resistant metals for longevity.
Another interesting products
Bead Storage Solutions for Jewelry Makers
When you start accumulating a lot of beads, findings, and tools for your jewelry making, you'll need ways to organize it all. Proper storage keeps your beadwork supplies neat, protected, and easy to find. Here are some useful storage solutions:
Bead Organizers
Clear plastic containers allow you to separate and see beads:
- Bead boxes - Rectangular containers with adjustable dividers.
- Bead vials - Plastic tubes to store extra seed beads.
- Bead trays - Lay out beads in separate compartments.
Tips for Bead Storage
- Group beads by color, type, or project.
- Label the containers for easy identification.
- Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Consider stackable organizers to save space.
Tool Storage
Keep essentials in one place:
- Tool rolls - Made of canvas or leather to store pliers, scissors, etc.
- Zippered pouches - Protect small tools like needles.
- Utility boxes - Plastic portable boxes with dividers.
- Peg boards - Hang tools on pegs on a wall board.
Tool Storage Tips
- Wrap sharp ends in fabric to prevent scratches.
- Consider magnetized tools bars to hold metal tools.
- Designate a toolbox just for jewelry making.
Craft Storage Furniture
Dedicated furniture offers lots of organized storage:
- Jewelry armoires - Cabinet with drawers, hooks, and compartments.
- Craft carts - Rolling carts with bins, shelves, and trays.
- Wall mounted racks - Hang storage bins and hooks on the wall.
With organizers suited for all your beadwork supplies, you can spend less time searching and more time crafting!
Where to Buy Beading Supplies
Once you're hooked on beading, you'll want access to a diverse selection of high-quality beads, tools, and findings. Beading supplies can be found both online and locally if you know where to look.
Online Bead Stores
Online retailers offer convenience, selection, and discounts:
- Beadaholique - Extensive selection of beads and jewelry making supplies.
- Fire Mountain Gems - Popular retailer with tools, beads, kits, and more.
- Etsy - Handmade and vintage beads from independent sellers.
- eBay - Auctions and sales on beads, findings, and bundles.
Benefits of Online Shopping
- Huge selection of beads types and colors.
- Ability to compare prices across multiple shops.
- Convenience of purchasing from home.
- Discounts and coupon codes offered.
Local Bead Shops
In-person bead stores allow you to see products up close:
- Independent local stores - Mom and pop bead shops.
- Bead shows/markets - Temporary exhibits of vendors.
- Craft and hobby stores - Retail chains like Michaels, Jo-Ann's, and Hobby Lobby.
- Antique and resale shops - Vintage and used beads.
Benefits of Shopping Local
- Ability to touch, examine beads and tools.
- Support small businesses in your community.
- Interact with knowledgeable bead store owners.
- Avoid shipping costs and delays.
With many sources for supplies, you can find the perfect beads and tools for your jewelry projects!
