Tips & Techniques

Beading

by Jennifer Bristol

Giving a necklace to a friend, but not sure how long to make it?
Add a piece of chain on the back of your beaded necklace so they can adjust the length. Our bead department has Silver Plated, Brass, and Base Metal chains to enhance your project.

Prevent tarnishing
Keep your sterling silver and silver plated beads and jewelry in a zip lock bag to prevent tarnishing.

How long do I make my necklace:

  • Take a piece of string and wrap it around your neck until the desired length.

  • Hold the string up to a ruler and measure it.

  • Cut your piece of Beadalon beading wire, leather, wax linen or other beading cord about 5 inches longer than the length that you want your necklace to hang. This allows for you to have enough materials to either crimp or knot the ends without losing length on your project.

Making a stretchy bracelet:

  • Measure your wrist with a piece of string, then hold the string up to a ruler to determine the length.

  • Cut a piece of Stretch Magic 4 inches longer than you want the bracelet to be.

  • String the beads on in the pattern you desire.

  • To end the project, tie an over hand knot, then put a dab of super glue on the knot to seal it up.

  • Wait for the glue to dry, then cut the excess ends off the piece.