The Sage's Cupboard Introduction to Beading

Beading is one of the world's oldest art forms, dating back as far as 100,000 years. The people of pre-history are known to have adorned themselves with decorative objects made from readily available materials such as bone, shells, and precious stones. Those primitive types of jewelry have since evolved, and beadwork is practiced in many different styles all over the world.

In North America, the most common types of beadwork are: stringing; loom weaving; off-loom weaving or stitching; bead knitting and crochet; and embroidery. These methods can be used to make anything from jewelry and clothing to home decor. Beads made from all types of materials are used by artists from all manner of backgrounds. The results are often stunning and always beautiful.

Other types of beadwork include wire wrapping, sculpture, and decopage. One can even create their own custom wall art, or highlight a favorite piece of art with beads.

"Bead Strands"

Who Can Bead?

The answer is quite simple: Anyone! The only prerequisite to creating fine beadwork is patience. Some techniques require a lot of practice, but all of the hard work is worth it in the end.

Some assets to have when you take on beading are a love of color and a bold imagination. Creativity can be key; however, a strictly mathematic approach can also be the start of some amazing beaded art. Many forms of bead weaving incorporate geometry to achieve the desired effect.

Why Try Beading?

The art of bead work appeals to people in many ways. One of the most common motives is to create jewelry and accessories that are a unique statement of one's personal style. Beading can be a relaxing past time, a fun family activity, even a small business.

Whatever the motivation, most serious beaders agree that their artwork is a source of joy. Creating something beautiful can be very therapeutic.

Where Do I Start?

For the novice beader, a jumping off point can be a matter of preference. Making jewelry with the stringing method is a good introduction to working with beads, color, and patterns. Try a multi-strand necklace project to get started.

The next step in beading is often off-loom weaving or embroidery. Some techniques can be vexing: a basic knowledge of sewing or needlework is an asset, as well as a steady hand and lots of patience. Although peyote stitch is the most common technique used, it is also one of the most difficult to learn. For absolute beginners, spiral rope is recommended to gain an understanding of tension and thread use, followed by flat herringbone weave for its simple start up.

Beading can be frustrating at first, but with plenty of practice, it can almost become second nature. If you're struggling with a new technique, don't be discouraged. Take a break, and perhaps seek out some encouragement from fellow beaders. Keep getting back on the horse, and you'll be rewarded with a fabulous new skill.

"Samburu Woman Wearing Decorative Beads"

There are many options for beading thread and stringing material, each with different advantages. Synthetic materials are best for long lasting, durable beadwork, but natural fibers can be an environmentally friendly alternative.

Nymo and C-Lon

These threads are made specifically for beading, and are available in a variety of colors. It is recommended that the threads be prepared with beeswax or a thread conditioner like Thread Heaven, to stiffen the fibers and protect them from fraying. Used primarily for stitching, these threads are available from most bead and hobby stores.

Kevlar Thread

This super strong thread is more expensive than traditional materials, but is popular among many beaders for it's durability. It is available from fabric stores, and shops that specialize in fly tying materials.

Sewing Thread

Cotton or polyester sewing thread is a great medium for beginners. It is inexpensive, and comes in a variety of colors. To protect and stiffen the fibers, clear craft glue can be used as a thread conditioner. Coat comfortable lengths of thread evenly with glue and allow to dry.

Braided Fishing Line

There are several brands of fishing line appropriate for beading, including Fireline, Spiderwire and Powerpro. Popular for stitching, they come in a variety of diameters, though 6lb test is most commonly used for it's strength and ability to pass through beads several times. No stretching or conditioning is required to prepare it as a thread, but color selection is limited to white, black, and neon green.

Fishing line is available at tackle shops and sporting goods stores, as well as department stores that carry fishing gear. To save on cost and packaging, some retailers can order bulk spools of several hundred yards.

Monofilament

Most often used as a stringing material, this plastic fishing line is available in a variety of diameters, from 2lb to 80lb test. Although it is strong and flexible, monofilament is susceptible to wear over time, and does not hold up well against heat and sunlight.

Your local bead store (or LBS) is the best place to shop for materials, tools and supplies for bead work. You'll be able to browse their selection of beads and findings with ease, and ask for advice. The staff may be able to make recommendations if you're not sure what to purchase. Best of all, you'll be supporting a business in your own community.

If an LBS isn't available in your area, craft and hobby stores may also have a good selection of beading materials and friendly advice. You can also find items in the craft aisle of most department stores, and even dollar stores and dime stores carry beads and findings. Be aware when you shop of where products are manufactured, and what quality you are getting. Not all beads are created the same.

Flea-markets are a great source for beads. You can find vintage and costume jewelry ready to be re-made, loose beads and buttons, as well as everyday items to be beaded such as handbags and bottles. Also check out thrift stores and yard sales. Not only are the sellers grateful for your business, but you're sure to find great bargains as well.

"Yarn and Beads at a Flea Market"

Finally, if you're unable to find what you need in your area, online shops are a good source for anything and everything a beader needs. Shop around for the best prices, quality and shipping terms to get the most for your money. As with any online activity, one should be aware of possible risks, and it's a good idea to get a second opinion before buying from any online store.

eBay is a great place to shop for beads and beading supplies because many sellers offer PayPal as a payment option. While there are hundreds of online bead shops out there, most require a credit card or prepaid cheque or money order. PayPal and eBay are quick, easy, and safe. Check out our eBay recommendations for great bead shopping online.

Did you enjoy this lens? Share it with a friend!

Email It
Tweet It
Digg It
Stumble It

Related content is available from: