Basics of Beading

The first time you look at a beaded necklace, especially one made of seed beads, you may think that there is no way that you can create something that beautiful yourself. Do not be intimidated by the size of the beads or what looks like a complicated pattern. Beading is actually very easy to learn and do.

First of all, you need to learn some of the basics. Become familiar with all the different types of material used for stringing your beads. Silk and nylon thread in a variety of sizes, soft flex or tiger tail. You then have to familiarize yourself with beads. Beads come in a multitude of sizes and shapes as well as materials. You can get beads out of glass, stone, plastic, wood and even ivory. You also have available all sorts of different metal beads you can use for accents.

Next, find out what tools you will need to bead with. If you are using thread, you will need beading needles. These needles have very tiny holes for you to put the thread through. You will need needle nose pliers, cutting pliers and a crimping tool. A bead board is handy because you have marks on it so you can determine how long your bracelet or necklace will be as you are laying it out. With a breadboard, you can also arrange and rearrange your beads until you get the desired effect before you start actually placing them on the thread.

The most important thing to remember about beading is it is a very simple operation. You should be relaxed and enjoy it.