Basic bead stringing isn't hard. Just pick your stringing material, beading method, a needle if needed, and a surface to work on. But first you have to get yourself some great beads.
For more efficient and professional results, incorporate these 10 bead stringing techniques into your beading regime:
1)Use the largest size stringing material that fits inside the hole of the smallest bead in your project. The added strength will help retard wear and fraying.
2)Leave a little space between the beads in your design for less wear on your stringing material.
3)Give the beads you're working with a critical once over before you begin stringing to check for rough edges that might cause your stringing material to wear or fray.
4)Try leaving the string attached to the spool when stringing your beads for a quick bracelet (or when you're working on a design while riding in the car). You won't have to worry about your beads falling off the unsecured end.
5)For a simple bead stopper to put on the end of your string while you slide on the beads, just wrap the end with tape or tape that end to your work surface.
6)Having a little trouble getting the string through a bead? Try a bead reamer to enlarge, straighten, or complete the hole in the bead.
7)Nobody likes it when the string breaks and beads go rolling in every direction. Use the best stringing material you can for your project. Never use fishing line, dental floss, or plain sewing thread if you want to create a professional looking design that wears well.
8)Needle threading woes? Color the tip of your thread with a permanent marker. Let it dry and thread your needle. The ink stiffens your thread and helps it slide through the eye of the needle.
9)When cutting your stringing wire, observe the proper safety measures. Point your pliers away and down from you. For extra security, wear safety glasses. It is important to protect yourself from bits of wire that might be flying around.
10)Need some bead stringing inspiration to get you started? Make yourself some "bead soup." That's just a collection of leftover beads from previous projects all mixed together. Take out a handful, team the beads up with your favorite stringing material, and challenge yourself to create something wonderful.
Hope these bead stringing techniques help you achieve the beaded designs you're dreaming of!
Do you want to learn more about how I do it? Get more information here: [http://www.theleisureboutique.com/default.aspx?PageID=1390&CategoryID=157&ProductID=25269]How To String Beads
You can also find everything you need for beading projects. Click here: [http://www.theleisureboutique.com/default.aspx?PageID=60&CategoryID=8]Bead Supplies
Merrilee Gasaway writes full time in the crafting industry.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Merrilee_Gasaway http://EzineArticles.com/?Bead-Stringing-Techniques---Beyond-the-Basics&id=2530932
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
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