How to Make Stitch Markers

How to Make Stitch Markers

• Choose your supplies: split rings, headpins, beads
• Gather your jewelry tools: flat nose pliers, round nose pliers, wire cutter (also called flush cutters because the flat edge sits flush against the wire to cut), spit ring pliers (not 100% necessary but these pliers will save your thumbnails and keep the cursing to a minimum). A bead mat is very handy for keeping all of your beads and findings (headpins, any wire pieces like split rings, etc.) from rolling away.
• String the beads on the headpins. Decide how elaborate or simple your beaded stitch markers will be. NOTE: Only use "smooth" beads that won't snag the fabric (the knitted or crocheted yarn). Beads with any sharp edges should not be used for stitch markers.
• To make a loop on the headpin, first, use the flat nose pliers to bend the headpin, as shown in the photo that follows. Make a right angle. Next, use the round nose pliers to form a loop by bending the wire of the headpin around one of the round portions of the round nose pliers. Use the flat nose pliers to grasp the end of the headpin. Wrap the headpin around the headpin under the loop.
• Clean up the stitch marker. All that's left is to trim the tail of the headpin. Be sure to cup your hand over the wire so the tail doesn't go shooting across the room. Use the flat nose pliers to straighten the loop, if needed.
• Add the split ring. Use the split ring pliers to open the split ring and slide the loop onto the split ring. Work the loop of the stitch marker around the split ring until the loop clears the "doubled" part of the split ring so it is secure.