A beautiful beaded necklace is a combination of the elements (1) quality workmanship plus (2) design. Good design combines the color, bead shape and size in an interesting, creative manner. Good workmanship incorporates the correct materials in the correct way. Don't be afraid to try different combinations of beads and techniques.
If a bead needle will not go through a bead, try a smaller size bead needle. Forcing a needle through a bead can (1) get the needle stuck or (2) break the bead.
If the needle comes off and it cannot be replaced, create a "self needle" by running cement along the last 2"-3" and let the cement dry. When dry, snip off the thread tip at an angle.
To stretch and straighten a necklace, hang the necklace over a doorknob and hang a small fish line weight in the middle at the bottom. Let the necklace hang over night. Do this on any newly-beaded necklace to allow the beads to settle into place.
Round nose pliers work best when rolling the end of a bead tip.
When buying beads, pass the needle through the beads to make sure the needle will work.
Use the same color beads in different shapes or textures together to add interest and variety to plain projects.
Dental floss is a quick and strong thread for beads if nothing else is available.
Use a small amount of cement when seal knots. Too much cement may glue together several bead. Too little cement may make the knot come untied.
The best way to thread thin needles is to wet the thread tip, cut it off at an angle, then run the thread through the needle eye. Clear nail polish can be used to stiffen the thread.
To pick up loose bead, place an old nylon stocking over the end of the vacuum cleaner attachment. Secure the nylon stocking with rubber bands. Just vacuum and then remove the beads trapped in the stocking.
Wrap the ends of your pliers with 2 or 3 layers of masking tape. This will avoid scratching wires and beads.
Try to thread all your needles in very good light and then stick them in a pin cushion to be used later.
Ensure you are working on a flat surface. Beads roll!
Buy enough beads for your project. Just like yarn and fabric, beads have dye lots and the colors can vary from one dye lot to another.
Make sure that you have sufficient beads, thread and the correct findings before starting your project.
Always add a dab of glue to the knot before closing the bead tip (aka clamshell).
Lay out all your materials within easy reach so that they are easily accessible.
An old terry cloth towel makes a great work surface for beading - the terry cloth keeps the beads from rolling around.
Work over a tray with sides or on a plate, to catch any dropped beads.
If your feature bead slips over the head pin base or eye pin, use a small seed bead to keep it in place.
An old mouse pad makes a great non-slip surface.
To prevent the crimp bead from catching clothing, use a pebble bead to cover the crimp bead attaching the clasp.
Tips from the Jeweler's Bench
Lapidary Hints and Tips from Rockpick Legend Co.
Fiber Images™
