A Crystal Animal Figurine Hand Crafted From Turkish Lead Crystal

Purchase a lead crystal animal figurine from the area where the making of lead crystal glass first began. Turkey has been involved in crafting crystal figurines for many centuries. Small workshops in towns and villages are the settings where the crystal animal figurine is created in a variety of designs. Today the dolphin is one of the most popular as a crystal animal figurine.

The art of creating lead crystal glass figurines has not changed significantly throughout the many centuries. The process begins with the craftsman melting the molten glass ingredients in a furnace. A wooden mould is also used to shape the glass. After the craftsman inspects the crystal figurine he is creating and finds that this step is finished, he then lets it cool for 36-48 hours.

After the crystal animal figurine has cooled for the specific period of time, the craftsman uses an emery stone to facet the surface. This gives the lead crystal piece its beautiful reflective qualities. He then adds any specific details he wants to see in the crystal. Many of the crystal animal figurines are left smooth, but there may be details that need to be added to the figurine, such as eyes. This process is how Turkish crystal figurines are made and these workshops are noted for their attention to detail and perfection in the pieces they produce.

Although a Turkish crystal animal figurine can be expensive, it is well worth what you pay for it. They are true works of art that you will certainly want to add to your collection. A lead crystal figurine of any design in your curio cabinet carries with it the centuries of history that developed its creation. You can look at it and know that the work that went into its creation is a time honored tradition from the past that is still used in the present, in spite of all the new technology that has since been developed.

When you have a crystal animal figurine crafted in lead crystal glass you can consider yourself lucky. Today there is a strong demand for crystal animal figurines made in Turkey, from many other parts of the world. The quality of today’s crystal figurines is just as superior as it was hundreds of years ago.

History of Crystal

The history of crystal dates back thousands of years to the Mesopotamian times. Lead oxide was used to enhance the brilliance of glass as used today, but applied in differently.

This was an alternate to the popular rock crystal which was more expensive, harder to cut and less refractive.

In the year 1676, George Ravenscroft revolutionized the methods of adding the lead oxide, which brought lead crystal a major step closer to it’s mass production of today.

In 1892, Daniel Swarovski invented a machine to cut jewelry stones perfectly. In 1895, he moved his company, known as Swarovski, from Bohemia to the Wattens, Austria where he used the Rhine River as a source of energy to run the company’s machinery.

From here the name “Rhinestone” was born. Today the word “rhinestone” is used for leaded crystal coming from any country though.

Swarovski is the highest quality crystal stone manufacturer in the world today. Stones are made in many other countries other than Austria as well, most notably Czechoslovakia, Germany, China, Israel and others.

http://www.rhinestonejewelry.com

About The Author

Jeffrey Levy - http://www.rhinestonejewelry.com

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The Flexibility Of Crystal Jewelry

As any style enthusiast will tell you, the addition of beautiful jewelry can accentuate outfits of all varieties; from casual to elegant and everywhere in between. Crystal jewelry, as many jewelry lovers continue to discover, has an exceptional ability to transform an outfit – simple and comfortable becomes classy; formal becomes exceptional. It’s no wonder that crystal jewelry continues to gain popularity among traditionalists and trend-setters alike.

Crystal can be distinguished from other materials by its lead content. This lead adds a weight to crystal but also gives it flexibility; the lead content actually makes crystal quite soft and pliable, allowing it to be cut and molded into a variety of styles. It is for this reason that crystal is so popular in the making of decorative and functional items for around the house. It is used quite often in the making of wine glasses, serving pieces, picture frames, and vases. People recognize the elegance that crystal brings to a room and appreciate its sturdiness and sparkle power. The same can be said for crystal jewelry. It is versatile, sturdy, and always lovely.

Crystal jewelry can mean anything from earring to necklaces and everything in between. Manufacturers of crystal jewelry are able to cut it into unique shapes that creatively reflect light; and the variations of style this gives consumers makes crystal jewelry inordinately popular. The choices are endless – from clear drop earrings to a colored crystal necklace – crystal jewelry can elevate an outfit to new levels of elegance and sophistication.

The other benefits of crystal jewelry are its durability and affordability. Crystal jewelry is affordably priced and therefore easy to replace; you don’t have to be concerned that you will lose or break crystal jewelry as you would with diamonds or other precious gems.

You can find crystal jewelry at high-end department stores, large retail outlets, and even in area jewelry stores. You may also want to check out antique stores to find beautiful and unique crystal jewelry.

Crystal jewelry revolutionizes your wardrobe and infuses your own personality and style into all of your clothing choices.

For easy to understand, in depth information about crystal lewelry visit our ezGuide 2 Crystals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Bery

Crystal Gift – A Gift For All Occasions

When it comes to gift giving, few items come close in popularity to a crystal gift. The versatility and affordability of crystal lends it to gift-giving of all varieties. Subsequently, you will often see crystal gifts on the bridal registries of many a newly engaged couple; and it’s no wonder. Dazzling and sophisticated, crystal can decorate a home with classic style or perform a variety of functions with a unique flair.

Nothing matches the versatility of the crystal gift. Crystal, because of its lead content, is softer and more pliable than glassware. Therefore, it can be cut and etched in a variety of creative ways allowing the manufacturer to give it simple, clean lines or distinctive and unusual cuts that throw light in a unique way. Also because of its lead content, crystal has a weight to it that glass does not, giving it a solid kind of elegance.

When it comes to giving a crystal gift, there are a variety of items from which to choose; you can opt for a functional crystal gift that can be used on a frequent basis; or you can opt for decorative crystal gift items that will add to the décor of the home.

Function crystal gift items include stemware that can be used for serving water, wine, champagne, and other cocktails. You can also find a beautiful array of crystal serving bowls perfect for use during a dinner party or celebratory occasion. A crystal gift of this kind can serve to not only brighten a table but also add a measure of elegance to any meal.

A crystal gift of the decorative kind could include such things as a crystal picture frame, crystal vase, or crystal lamp base. Because of its ability to refract light, a crystal gift can open up a room, giving it a bright, open quality. A decorative crystal gift can stay in a family for generations, serving to remind the receiver of a special time in their lives or the person who gave them this special gift.

For easy to understand, in depth information about crystal gift visit our ezGuide 2 Crystals.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Bery

Beading Around the World - Africa's Bead Culture

The last week of October is Beads Weekin Ghana in West Africa. Exporting beads has become a major source of income for many in poverty stricken areas of Africa, besides being a major source of cultural exchange between Ghana and Italy and other European countries.

Ghana and Italy have long been linked in history. As early as the 15th century, makers of glass beads began shipping their products to Ghana in Western Africa. The beads were important for increasing the status of Chiefs and Queens and were used in ceremonies that marked rites of passage. Italy and Ghana were united by the common language of artistic beauty and their love of the tiny masterpieces.

Now, in a reversal, West Africa is beginning to export locally made beads to back to Italy.

In another part of Africa, Uganda has a thriving bead export business. Paper beads in all sizes and shapes are helping Ugandan women to rise out of poverty. Women in many parts of Africa have few economic opportunities and in Uganda, women are fleeing the civil war and settling near the Ugandan capital, Kampala. Instead of finding a brighter future, they found HIV, starvation and expensive housing. There is hope for these women-Bead For Life.

The organization called BeadForLife began when two American women watched a Ugandan woman making beads from rolled up magazines. The Ugandan woman explained that there was no market for her beads, so she had to work at a local quarry for less than a dollar a day. When the two American women brought some necklaces back to the US and gave them to some friends, a new market was born.

Paper beads are colorful and beautiful and come in many sizes and shapes. Because the market is strong in American, people purchasing these beads are helping women in another culture to survive and rise above the depravations of deficiency. As a result, a new cultural exchange market has been created.

The paper beads are created from recycled magazines, posters or other donated material that is cut, rolled and finished with a water-proof coating. The products made from the beads range from single strands of beads to delicate three strand necklaces.

More information about beads and beading can be found at The Bead Cottage, www.thebeadcottage.com

Karen Vertigan Pope writes for Ciniva Systems, an award winning Virginia web design company.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_Vertigan_Pope

Craft Beads, Old And New

Craft beads have been used to create jewelry and other decorative pieces for hundreds of years. In ancient times, stone, turtle shells, animal horns and hooves, and fresh water clams were used to make decorations. Now, beads can be made from semi-precious stones, wood, glass, and plastic – just to name a few. The possibilities with craft beads are endless.

Craft bead projects range from beginner to advanced, complicated designs. You can purchase craft bead kits at your local craft store or online. If you already have a supply of craft beads, you can find free patterns and designs online. There are even kits and patterns available for children.

By far, the most popular use for craft beads is creating jewelry. They aren't limited to use in jewelry, however. You can make holiday decorations, like beaded Christmas trees, or you can put beads on household items to give them a new flare. Another interesting project to try is to weave small beads together in intricate patterns to create stunning flowers.

Craft beads are made out of a variety of materials including glass, metal, terracotta, wood, plastic, stone, bone, horn, ivory, wood, ceramic, fiber, shell, pearl, coral, gemstones, seeds, resin, and clay. Beads can also be fashioned into many shapes including melon, oval, barrel, cylindrical, round, square, star, butterfly, heart, and flower.

When you consider the vast number of beads available, the possibilities are endless. The cost of individual beads will be determined by what they are made of, their use, and their age. You can even take beads from an old necklace or other piece of jewelry and craft them into a new piece that you will love.

You can create unique jewelry for yourself or create decorative gifts for loved ones. If you are going to create your own design, be sure that you have all the craft beads and other supplies you will need. You can do this by drawing out a detailed plan or diagram of the piece you want to create.

To complete a project, you will need craft beads, wire, wire cutters, and crimp beads. Crimp beads are soft metal and are used to complete a strand of beads. If you are creating jewelry, you will need the appropriate clasp also. If you would rather follow a pattern, there are books available at your local craft store, or you can find hundreds of free patterns online. Those instructions should give you a list of needed supplies.

You can purchase craft bead projects that are already completed at craft shows, stores, and online. The price of these items will depend on the type of beads used and the intricacy of the piece. You may also be able to find older beaded pieces or ethnic pieces. Native American, Mexican, and African bead craft are beautiful and unique.

Whether you are a beginner or an advance crafter, try doing some bead work. You will come to love using craft beads for their versatility and beauty. You will also love the jewelry and other decorative pieces you are able to create!

For more information on crafts, try visiting http://www.craftguidance.com - a website that specializes in providing craft related tips, advice and resources to include information on craft beads

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Candice_Sabrina

The Art of Beading Jewelry

Beading jewelry can be much more than just trinkets that little girls make with kits; this type of jewelry can be as simple or as elegant as you wish it to be. If you are considering making this type of jewelry, you’ll want to decide exactly which way you would like to go with it. If you will be following patterns and directions with your beading and designs, then a lot of the decisions are already made for you. Following pre-set patterns and designs means that you will know what you are making, but you still have to decide on the value of the materials you will be using. This, of course, depends on who and what you will be making the jewelry for.

If your goal is to design your own beading jewelry, then you are most likely interested in marketing your finished products. In this case, you probably want to start off by using cheaper beads and wires for practicing and refining your designs, and then use more expensive and elaborate beads, wires, and any other additions once you are sure of what you want to design and make. There are many craft stores, as well as stores that cater to jewelry designers, and most of the people in those stores would be glad to help you with your cheap bead and more expensive bead selections. Many of these stores also hold classes on designing jewelry, and although you may want your designs to be completely original, you can still gain some valuable tips on beading jewelry at some of these classes.

You can find this article and more like it at http://www.beadingcentral.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Renee_Flowers

Making Money through Creative Beading

Not everyone can be a good bead crafter, but if you have a special talent for creative beading, you may be able to turn your talent into a lucrative profession. One way to know if you can make money this way is to listen to what other people are saying about your beading crafts, whether you do jewelry or other beading projects. Don’t just listen to what people say when you give them your beading projects as gifts; they aren’t going to be as honest as you would like. Instead, try to display your beading work in places where a lot of different people will see them, and try to eavesdrop on the conversations that they have about your work.

People love creative beading, and most people can spot good work when they see it. Whether you are making costume jewelry or adding beading to clothing, you are going to be able to make a good living from it if you find that people keep coming back to purchase your particular designs. Once you establish yourself as a bead crafter who does good quality work, you may want to make up some business cards for yourself and pass them around. Try to set up a booth at craft fairs as often as possible, and hand out your business cards to people who buy your products. Be sure to include your phone number and email address, and let people know that you are willing to do custom work. Your creative beading talent could very well provide you with a good full time income.

You can find this article and more like it at http://www.beadingcentral.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ed_Whit

Beading Patterns Can Make a Product Much More Interesting

Have you noticed how a women's dress with colorful or exotic beads can turn the heads of those around her? The beads sparkle or dazzle with crystals, gemstones or colorful glass and plastics. A purse enhanced with beads is usually the intricate work of a skilled person.

I see most of the products that are enhanced with beading as more interesting because of the beads. The beads on the most beautiful items are applied by talented people who devise a beading pattern for their work before they ever start applying the first bead. The beading patterns could be the original creation of the person decorating the product, but it could also be a beading pattern made and shared by others for their use.

Beading patterns could be used to add a border around the bottom of a dress, or perhaps an accent around the collar of a garment or a border around the edge of a purse. This method of beading used a limited number of beads and can be a very simple method.

You could cover your wedding dress for a more elegant look. Beading patterns could be from famous designers or from people working to become famous. When using beading pattern to be made considering the type of materials used need to be consider before hand.

Beading Patterns Are Made With The Budget In Mind

Note: When your budget is playing a role such as when beading pattern for an elegant dress using diamonds or expensive crystals your pre-planning will be most important.

The fact that precious gemstone used in a beading pattern can be quite costly means the pattern used to place the beads on one of these garments must account for each bead placed on it.

I like looking through the internet to find the gorgeous patterns available for us who would like to place beads on a special garment or purse. These patterns provide a guide for the person in charge of the beading so they don't need to keep large inventories of beads and supplies.

Beading patterns are like paint by numbers or road maps and are designed to make beading fun and easy. The pattern you choose will help you place each bead in the appropriate color if necessary.

There are some beautiful patterns for beading available at craft and specialty shops or websites devoted to the beading enthusiasts.

You will find that there are beading patterns available at no charge. Besides a guide to the color and shape, the pattern will guide the individual with information on starting points and perhaps steps to make beading a little easier, you know tricks of the trade.

Starting with a kit that includes beading patterns will make the learning curve much easier. There are some wonderful kits that provide all of the instruction necessary for getting you started. Other guides include the information to make a glamorous necklace or some trendy earrings.

James Mann is a beginner at beading but is pretty much hooked already. Learn more about beading and beading patterns at 'The Art of Beading' located at:
http://www.takealookatthisvideo.com/theartofbeading/ and
http://www.takealookatthisvideo.com/

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Building Your Beading Tool Collection

If you believe that beading is something that you are interested in enough to make it a full time profession or hobby, then you need to build a beading tool collection. Beading may seem quite easy, but this is usually a false notion. It is the very skilled beading crafters that make it look easy.

What do you need to have in your beading tool collection so that you will have everything that you need? Well, for one thing, you need beads! Buying beads ahead of time, before you’ve even decided on certain designs or projects, may seem like putting the cart before the horse, but there is another way to look at it. Designers often get inspiration from the materials around them. If you are at the craft store or bead store and you see some beads that really catch your interest, buy them. After you take them home and look at them for a while, you’ll probably start forming an image in your head about how you want to use them.

You’ll also need beading needles – several different sizes and types – a beading loom, and lots of beading wire. Although you don’t always need beading wire for every beading project, you’ll definitely need it for some of them. Your beading tool collection needs to be complete so that you will have everything you need when inspiration strikes you.

You can find this article and more like it at http://www.beadingcentral.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Renee_Flowers

Working With a Beading Loom

You can seriously make your own personal beading masterpiece with a beading loom. When you’re looking to purchase this type of loom, you want to find one that is sturdy and well-made. Normally they are rectangle or square-shaped, and have raised hooks or grooves for threading and weaving. Though you can find these looms at a lesser price than wooden ones, you’ll find that buying a wood beading loom is well worth the extra money spent. They are the sturdiest and last the longest.

When using this type of loom for the first time, make your first project easy on yourself. Select larger beads to start with, and use your loom on a large flat surface that won’t move around on you. Some beads called “Czech beads” are good to use when you are a beginner. Also, you’ll want to use some nice and strong beading thread for your first projects, like a thread called Nymo. Don’t forget, as well, to use a beading needle that is one size smaller than your bead size. Once you’ve got all the appropriate material, tools, patterns, and a surface, simply follow the instructions for your beading loom and your pattern to create your masterpiece!

You can find this article and more like it at http://www.beadingcentral.info

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General Guide to Pearl Jewelry Making

Usually, a pearl alone is not a complete or finished pearl jewelry piece. Pearl jewelry like pearl necklace, ring, earring, pendant and bracelet is made up of quality pearls, precious metal work and other decorations. For pearl jewelry, there are a fantastic variety of pearls that are different in type, color and size; and the widely-used precious metals are platinum, gold and silver; as well as the decorations are valuable gemstones such as diamonds, jades, crystal-rocks and other pretty pearl imitations.

Fashion comes out from certain or varied combination of the making, design and aesthetical experience of new, popular and traditional elements.
How can the beads, metals and decorated objects be made together into a fashion pearl jewelry piece? So while a unique jewelry piece is simply work of art, design ideas should be read. Design is a process that exquisite/consummate crafts are hired to make inspiring ideas come true.

In fact, little works are spent on the pearls. For natural formation, pearls can not be cut and made into certain models like the precious metals or jades. Pearls are just drilled holes for stringing, or setting with metal pieces and decorations. Thus Most of complicated working procedures are paid for the make of precious metal fabrication and the like.

Get started making jewelry now with these sections to the basics of all kinds of jewelry making: bead stringing; bead weaving; wire work; metal clay; metal fabrication; metal soldering; fused and lamp work glass; and mixed media and fiber.
Of course, each section of pearl jewelry making must be finished by different series of craft and tools.(continue)

by Katinee W.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Katinee_W

7 Simple Steps to Making Jewelry at Home

I began beading several years ago at Fred Segal in Santa Monica. They had a really cool bead shop where you could sit down, design and make your piece. It was a bit pricey but worth the finished product and the lack of hassle.

I took this theory and began designing jewelry from my home and selling it to boutiques. Here is a quick and easy way to make a beautiful necklace.

1. FIND A PENDANT

This is usually the most important part of the design as it is going to be the main attraction. It is the largest part of the necklace and is centered to gain the attention of the eye. I look for unusual and unique pendants that are already wire wrapped and/or have a loop to slide onto a chain or bead onto flexwire.

The pendants I use range from stones like amethyst, citrine, turquoise etc to beautiful crosses and cameos. It doesn't matter what the pendant is, just make sure it stays within your budget. You also want to make sure it is made well and will not fall apart after 2 wears.

2. MATCH THE PENDANT TO THE BEADS

Once I chose a pendant, I then advance to the bead section. I always choose something that compliments that pendant in color, texture and size. For example, if I was going to choose a Indian coral and turquoise pendant, most likely I would use a similar stone for the beading that matched in color and size. Maybe a small nugget torquise or round coral bead. Another example would be a black and white cameo pendant. Most likely I would pair it with a round onyx stone that was smaller than the pendant and accented the cameo. You can also be creative and a bit funky and try mixing a black and white cameo with some cool stone as well. It just depends on how traditional you want to be and who you are making the necklace for.

3. ADD SOMETHING THAT SPARKLES

Once I have my pendant and beads chosen, I always like to add a bit of sparkle to the piece. I personally like Swarovski crystals scattered throughout. They add a bit of glimmer and make the piece pop. It also adds value to the piece if your end goal is to sell it.

4. SPACERS TO ADD BLING

In some pieces, I like to add some silver or gold spacers. Even if it is just a plain tiny round one that separates the beads from the crystals. It also adds bling and makes the crystals pop. However if you are going to use silver, be prepared to clean it regularly as it can tarnish.

5. NOW THE TOOLS AND FINDINGS

Now you are ready to actually put the necklace together. If you are beginner, this should take no more than and hour. I can usually make about one piece every 15 minutes. Make sure you have the necessary tools and findings. For a basic necklace you will need the following :

-Wire, Thread or Stretch Cord (I prefer Accuflex wire)

-Crimp beads (2 beads - One for each end)

-Small Jewelry Scissors (or manicure scissors will work)

-Clasp (I prefer a large lobster clasp with matching jump ring)

-Flat Nosed Pliers (I use two pairs when making pieces but you can use just one or substitute tweezers)

6. PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

Wire:

You start with the piece of wire and measure it to the length you want. You can also use a beading board but I do the easy way of just measuring. Cut the wire to desired length.

Fasten the end:

Place the jumpring and crimp bead on the end of the wire, so the beads won't slip.

String the beads:

Begin stringing the beads along the wire. Use whatever pattern you chose above. For example: 3 beads, 1 silver spacer, 1 crystal, 1 silver spacer, 3 beads....and keep repeating.

Add the pendant:

Once you get to the middle, slide the pendant onto the wire.

Even it out:

Repeat the beading until you get to the end.

Fasten the end:

Add the crimp bead and the lobster clasp.

7. WEAR IT AND TEST IT

I always like to try the piece on and make sure it hangs well and doesn't do anything funny. Sometimes when you use a thicker Accuflex with heavy beads it can become too tight or too loose or hang weird. I like to try it on several times throughout the process to make sure I'm happy with the length etc.

Good luck!

My name is Kameron Kay, marketing expert and jewelry designer. Please visit my newly released "Jewelry Selling Secrets" ebook and audio program at: http://www.kameronkay.com

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Jewellery Making For Beginners - More Complicated Designs

Once you have practiced with a few simple designs you will no doubt want to tackle some more complicated designs.

One of the most effective designs is adding a pendant to a necklace, either a single pendant in a Y shape, or one longer and two shorter pendants at either side. Pendants may be added by using a head pin in the same way I described making earrings in the previous article. Or pendants can be purchased specially if you would like to use a certain charm like a butterfly or angel. Again be careful of the weight of the finished piece. I find 16 inches with a 1.5 or 2 inch pendant looks very nice.

You could make an extra long necklace or a necklace with many strands. Maybe use invisible wire to make your necklace. Use rougher thread and tie a knot either side of the bead to make it stay and leave gaps between the beads.

You can add two or three head pins with beads on to the fish hooks, making them various lengths. Maybe you could use an eye pin (which has a loop instead of a head on it) to add a larger bead at the top and hang other beads from that. Or use eye pins to make a string of beads to attach to the fish hook.

You can buy the findings for chandelier earrings and add your own beads. Or buy cages for beads to make earrings or necklaces (though it is possible to make these yourself with wire work.)

Have I confused you will too many suggestions, or are you getting excited by the possibilities? Because there's more...

Discover more jewellery making tips here:
http://www.squidoo.com/jewellery-making-for-beginners/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kirsty_Semple

Beading Patterns Free Peyote Stitch

The peyote stitch is an easy and enjoyable bead stitch to learn. Beginner beaders to advanced fall in love with the peyote stitch because of its versatility, flexiblity and beauty. The peyote stitch almost feels like fabric and can be use to make chokers, beaded purses... and endless bead designs.

Supplies

40" (60cm) Nylon beading thread

Beading needle

Size 11 seed beads

How To Bead A Peyote Stitch...

Step 1. Thread on a top bead

Step 2. Thread on 7 more beads

Step 3. Thread another bead and then thread your needle through the 3rd bead from the end.
Pull the thread so that the new bead sits on top of the 8th bead of the first row.

Step 4. Thread another bead and then thread your needle through the 4th bead from the end of the first row.

Step 5. Repeat Step 4, 2 more times, weaving the thread through every other bead on the first row.
You will end the second row with the thread going through the stop bead. (your first bead).
You should have added 4 new beads.

Step 6. Now, lets continue with a third row...
Thread another bead and then thread your needle through the first bead on the second row.
Pull the thread so that the new bead sits on top of the stop bead

Step 7. Thread another bead and then thread your needle through the next bead on the second row.

Step 8. Continue like this until you have 4 new beads threaded for the third row.

Keep going! The peyote stitch takes a bit of practice at first. The trick is to keep the thread tension tight, and still allow the weave to lay flat. Practice with larger seed beads at first to get the hang of the stitch. Once you learn the peyote stitch, you will be hooked! Bead long strips of seed beads to make a choker!

Happy Beading!

Jennifer Thoden

Discover free bead patterns, beading instructions and an online bead store directory. Visit http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to enjoy free designer bead patterns, detailed step by step bead instructions, dozens of beading related articles and a growing online bead store directory to help you find the beading supplies you need.

http://www.beadpatternsonline.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Thoden

Bracelet Bead Pattern - Pearls, Crystal and Silver

Have fun with this 3 strand bracelet made with crystal pearl, crystal bicones and silver beads. It sparkles, it shines... fancy enough to wear out on the town... yet you can wear it with any color sweater or t-shirt and look great! And best of all, this bracelet is easy to make!

Skills required:

Crimping
Stringing Beads

Beading Supplies

* Crimping pliers
* Needlenose pliers
* Flat nose pliers
* (24") .014mm Stringing Wire
* (6) 2mm Crimp Tubes Sterling Silver
* (6) Crimp Covers Silver
* (1) 16mm Toggle Clasp Sterling Silver
* (48) 3mm Silver Bead Sterling Silver
* (31) 6mm Glass Pearl White
* (20) 4mm Spacer Bead Antique Silver Plated
* (18) 4mm Cystal Bicone Clear
* (77) Size 11 Seed Beads

Stringing the first strand of beads

Step 1. Cut off 8" of stringing wire.

Step 2. String one end through a crimp tube, through the hole of of one side of the clasp, back through the same crimp tube.

Step 3. Crimp the crimp tube with crimping pliers.

Step 4. Cover the crimp tube with a crimp cover using your flat-nose pliers.

Step 5. String beads on in the following order:

Vist http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to see this bead pattern and to read the rest of this article with detailed photos and diagrams.

Happy Beading!

Jennifer Thoden

Discover free bead patterns, beading instructions and an online bead store directory. Visit http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to enjoy free designer bead patterns, detailed step by step bead instructions, dozens of beading related articles and a growing online bead store directory to help you find the beading supplies you need.

http://www.beadpatternsonline.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Thoden

Bracelet Bead Pattern - Pearls and Sea Foam Seed Beads

This 3 strand beaded bracelet is elegant with it's cool, translucent sea foam strands... and dangles of glass pearls... sparkling with silver beads and spacers. Wear this bracelet with an elegant white blouse or dress up your casual t-shirts... or wear it with a green sweater to pull out the green. Beautiful!

Skills required:

Crimping
Stringing Beads
Wire Working

Beading Supplies

* Crimping pliers
* Needlenose pliers
* Flat nose pliers
* (24") .014mm Stringing Wire
* (14) Silver Plated 2" Head Pins
* (6) 2mm Crimp Tubes Sterling Silver
* (6) Crimp Covers Silver
* (1) 24mm 3 Strand Hook and Eye Clasp Sterling Silver
* (257) Size 11 Seed Beads Transparent -Sea Foam
* (20) 6mm Glass Pearl White
* (26) 4mm Spacer Bead Antique Silver Plated
* (12) 3mm Silver Bead Sterling Silver
* (7) 4mm Jump Rings Silver

Creating the dangles

Step 1. String onto a head pin, 1 pearl, 1 spacer bead.

Step 2. Form a wrapped loop close to the spacer bead. Trim off excess wire.

Step 3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for a total of 14 pearl dangles.

Step 4. Hook 2 pearl dangles together with a jump ring... create 7 sets.

Vist http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to read the rest of this article with detailed photos and diagrams.

Happy Beading!

Jennifer Thoden

Discover free bead patterns, beading instructions and an online bead store directory. Visit http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to enjoy free designer bead patterns, detailed step by step bead instructions, dozens of beading related articles and a growing online bead store directory to help you find the beading supplies you need.

http://www.beadpatternsonline.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Thoden

Beading Crimping Instructions

Crimping is the process of securing your wire to a clasp or creating a stop for a bead on wire. When beading jewelry you will use the crimping skill all the time. The best part about this beading skill is that it is very easy to learn.

You will need:

Crimp tube

Stringing wire

Crimping Pliers

Step 1. Thread the wire through the crimp tube, through the ring on the clasp

Step 2. Thread the wire back through the crimp tube

Step 3. Lay the crimp tube on the back portion of the crimping pliers

Step 4. Close the crimping pliers to squeeze the crimp tube flat

Step 5. Lay the flattened crimp tube on its side in the front space of the pliers

Step 6. Close the crimping pliers again to squeeze the crimp tube in half again

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Visit http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to read this article with easy to follow diagrams.
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You can cover a crimped bead with a crimp cover. This gives the illusion of another bead instead of seeing flattened metal. You can also find crimp beads that have a loop already on them. So instead of looping the wire through the clasp, you would crimp you wire, and cover the crimp bead with the crimp cover. Use a jump ring to hook the crimp cover and clasp together.

Happy Beading!

Jennifer Thoden

Discover free bead patterns, beading instructions and an online bead store directory. Visit http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to enjoy free designer bead patterns, detailed step by step bead instructions, dozens of beading related articles and a growing online bead store directory to help you find the beading supplies you need.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Thoden

How To Make A Wrapped Wire Loop

For many of your bead patterns, you will need to know how to make a wrapped wire loop.

A wrapped wire loop is medium thick wire wrapped to form an enclosed loop that you use to string beads and dangles.

To create a wrapped loop you should use 20 guage wire or a head pin. You would use a head pin if you only need one side of your bead(s) to have a loop. You would use the wire if you need to create loops on both ends of the bead. As you can see, a head pin is perfect for creating dangles for earrings and for dangles to hang off your necklace. A loop on each end of a bead allows that bead to be hooked on both ends for creative design purposes.

The instructions here for a wrapped loop will show a 2" head pin... but you can use this method on your wire of choice.

Step 1. With your flat-nose pliers, grasp the wire at least 1" from the end.

Step 2. Using your finger, press the wire over the pliers creating a 90 degree angle

Step 3. With your round-nose pliers, grasp the wire close to the bend, with the wire close to tips of the pliers. (Where the wire is located on the round-nose pliers will determine the diameter of the loop. You should have the wire where the arrow is pointing in the photo.)
Step 4. Roll the pliers toward the bend... use your finger to press the wire around the pliers to form a loop... with the tail of the wire laying at a 90 degree angle across the bend.

Step 5. Grasp the loop with your flat-nose pliers, so that the intersection of the wire on the bend is inside the pliers... and the nose of the pliers is pointing in the same direction as the tail.

Step 6. Using your finger, bend the tail tightly around the wire.

Vist http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to read this article with detailed photos and diagrams.

Happy Beading!

Jennifer Thoden

Discover free bead patterns, beading instructions and an online bead store directory. Visit http://www.beadpatternsonline.com to enjoy free designer bead patterns, detailed step by step bead instructions, dozens of beading related articles and a growing online bead store directory to help you find the beading supplies you need.

http://www.beadpatternsonline.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Thoden

Beading Instructions Galore!

After 2 weeks of information about all kinds of beads, crystals and pearls, accessories such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, coasters, and more, and various patterns and designs...

We're devoting the whole of next week to step-by-step beading instructions!

These instructions will, hopefully, get some beading beginners reading this blog to finally start on their own projects. Let your creative juices flow as you go about practising on your newfound skills, and create unique jewelry pieces for yourselves and your loved ones!

Our beading instructions are all written by expert beader Jennifer Thoden. Jennifer Thoden shares her love for design and creativity in her detailed step by step articles on sewing window treatments, sewing projects and beaded jewelry design. She has authored and published "How To Make Roman Shades", "How To Sew Pleated Drapes", along with a few other window treatment how-to ebooks.

Taking Up Beading? An Amazing Variety Of Books And Beading Kits Will Help You Get Started

Beading looms, Russian coraling techniques, crocheted bead jewelry, beading incorporated into purses and quilts … there are so many ways to create beaded items that it's hard to know where to start. Luckily, the Internet can bring an entire world of beading information, materials and supplies into your home. A quick search using the keyword "beading" results in hundreds of websites offering beading materials and supplies, free beading patterns, and a wealth of books for students of beading, both beginning and advanced.

For the beginner, the book Simply Beautiful Beading: 53 Quick and Easy Projects, by Heidi Boyd, offers a variety of attractive designs for jewelry and accessories, as well as projects for home décor. She teaches thirteen basic beading techniques, all easy to do and all of which result in beautifully made items for personal use. Another book, Bead Fantasies, by Takako Samejima, teaches easy techniques which result in wonderfully delicate and feminine jewelry and other crafted items.

If you're interested in the intricate designs possible with the use of a bead weaving loom, explore the Dover Needlework series volume, Big Book of Indian Beadwork Designs, by Kay Doherty Bennett. One of many excellent beading books with a Native American theme, this particular book has a wealth of authentic Native American designs to copy or adapt to your own projects, for jewelry and to add to clothing, bags, and other crafted items.

You can also find information, both in these books and on the Internet, about the materials and supplies you need to start beading: bead boards, bead crimping tools, stringing wire, tweezers, a variety of beading looms - and, of course, beads and findings, thousands of them, from all around the world. From the tiniest seed beads to large, colorful ceramic or glass beads, to intricately designed silver beads, bells, and pendants, they are available from virtually anywhere in the world. If you want to make it easy on yourself, order a beading kit: many are available for all skill levels, and will get you set up with the basic tools needed for the craft, in addition to supplying you with the beads necessary for the specific project.

Beaders are a passionate lot, and many websites available on the Internet offer galleries of personal work for your inspiration; many also offer free beading patterns, as well as free instruction, even free online courses in beading. Pick a project that attracts you, and try to copy it using the techniques you know. Play with it; choose different color combinations, incorporate the design into a different application from the one shown, explore using beads of different sizes and shapes to see what results. Pick up a book on color or basic design and incorporate those principles into your work. You may find that you move very quickly from simply copying the designs of other artists to creating your own designs, and from there you'll very quickly develop your own personal style.

How To Make Beaded Jewelry - Upgrade Your Bead Jewelry Making By Trying Bead Weaving

If you are primarily making bead jewelry using bead stringing techniques, I recommend that you give bead weaving a try.

Unlike bead stringing where you run your string or wire through a set of beads in one direction, with bead weaving you will criss-cross both ends of your wire or string within selective beads depending on the jewelry pattern.

There are a huge variety of patterns available from very simple weaves to extremely complex and intricate weaves. The complex ones can be fun to try, but in my opinion the simple weaves using a variety of different colored beads make more attractive jewelry pieces.

If you have gotten used to the simplicity of bead stringing, then when you first look at a piece of jewelry that has been made using bead weaving you may think it is too complicated for you to do. Don't let this stop you from giving it a try because I promise you that it is easier than it looks.

There are a few basic patterns you have to learn but once you have practiced those and have them down, you will be able to weave most anything. I bead weave not only necklaces and bracelets, but even rings as well. A matching set of a weaved necklace, bracelet, and ring makes quite an impression.

And if you are in the business of selling your jewelry, bead weaving gives you an advantage because not many jewelry makers are doing it. This means your jewelry becomes unique in the eyes of your customers.

In addition, bead weaving makes the final jewelry piece look more complex so it has a higher perceived value (meaning you can get a higher price!) than jewelry made with bead stringing.

So if you are looking to kick your jewelry making into a higher gear, give it a shot. Your jewelry portfolio will take on a whole new and exciting look!

Eri Attebery operates http://www.JewelryMakingProfessor.com a site dedicated to offering products that teach how to make jewelry, and http://www.JewelryMakingInformation.com a site offering jewelry making tips, video tutorials, product reviews and resources for both jewelry making beginners and pros.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eri_Attebery

Beaded Purses

Beads are small rounded decorative objects that have a hole to string them. The material used for making beads could be glass, plastic, shells, or stones. Some of the plastic beads do not have a hole pierced in them and are directly molded to the string. Beads are of many sizes and they are used in decorating purses.

Beaded purses have an artistry look and they impart a shiny finish to a purse. Glass beads are extremely popular as they are readily available and are of different colors. Some of the beaded purses use sequins simultaneously with beads for decoration. Leather purses that are embroidered with gold or silver beads are favorites of many people.

Various designs of beaded purses are available at designer stores. It is also possible to get one, custom made from these designers. The buyer can decide upon the kind of beads to be used, and specify the style of the purse. Beaded designer purses that use semi precious stones are popular with celebrities and the elite.

Beads of various types are used for decorating purses. Ethnic bead purses are popular at tourist spots in different countries. There are fire-polished beads that are also carefully selected to make unique purse designs.

Beads can be either stringed to purses or they can be stuck to the purse. Sometimes the clutch of the purse or the handle is beaded and this gives a completely different look to the purse. There are purses that are decorated with pearls. The material used for making these purses can be leather or fabric. Pearls that are naturally obtained impart a natural elegant appearance.

There are stores that design purses beaded in traditional designs. The color of the beads can be selected before hand. Tribal or Native Americans are known to use a variety of beads for decoration. Modern day purse manufacturers take inspiration from these native designs.

Bead purses are available at different cost ranges. The quality of the material used and the cost of beads are important factors in ascertaining the cost of a purse.

Purses provides detailed information on Purses, Designer Purse, Wholesale Purses, Sequin Purses and more. Purses is affiliated with Discount Perfume.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole

Jewellery and Ex-Beading Accessories

Jewellery and femininity go hand in hand. Whenever and wherever a lady adorns herself with jewellery, there is a hint of a smile and a glint in her eyes. This is so because every piece of jewellery she wears makes her feel good and beautiful. And this shine and glint in her eyes and in her smile is well captured and reflected in the beads of her ear pieces, in the pendant on her cleavage, in the finery around her wrists and in every piece of trinket she wears.

But did you ever wonder how each of these pieces of jewellery, that which reflects and enhances a woman's beauty and elegance, is made? How each bead is carefully chosen and set inside a lavaliere with the help of various kinds of ex beading accessories? Well, each piece of jewellery has a story to itself. It covers a long journey while it is manufactured, before it enters the shops, and then after careful consideration by the sales person and the customers, they start off another story.

Each bead and each gem in a jewellery is chosen meticulously. There are a wide variety of ex beading accessories. There is a different accessory for various kinds of activities. There is a very fine reamer that designs pearls. Another tool, often used by jewelers is tweezer and shovel combo. There is a round nose plier which is used for making loops. Apart from these, there are various other ex beading accessories that are used by goldsmith and other jewellery makers.

Using the right kind of ex beading accessories is a must for designing and manufacturing jewellery With the help of the right accessories, you can make the designs precise and flawless. Using the wrong accessories can damage any good design, and thereby spoil the fun of buying or wearing jewellery.

Paul Shane cherishes a hobby of studying and collecting jewellery, to dig out the making and story behind them, especially the rare or exquisite ones, also the ex-beading accessories being used for manufacturing the jewellery. He also loves studying consumer behaviour related to jewellery selecting and buying. At present he is associated with a leading group called E-Beads Limited.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Shane

Learn How To Make Jewelry By Getting Started With Bead Stringing

As a jewelry making teacher, I often talk to ladies who want to learn how to make jewelry, but they aren't sure how to get started. I can understand this because it isn't always obvious from looking at jewelry pieces to know what would be easy to make, and what would be difficult to make.

Like most things, if you jump in to soon and work on something you're not ready for, you will probably end up being frustrated, start to think you can't do it, and quit. My suggestion is always to crawl before you walk before you run. That way you can quickly build confidence in your abilities and you will enjoy seeing yourself improve as you start to take on more challenging jewelry making projects.

From my experience with new students the best way to learn to crawl when it comes to jewelry making is to learn simple bead stringing techniques first. Doing so will get you comfortable with simple jewelry making techniques, materials, and tools before you move on to try something more difficult. And the nice thing is that you can still make a lot of very beautiful jewelry pieces even with simple bead weaving techniques.

For the most part, bead stringing simply involves running a thin wire or a nylon filament string (that's where the word "stringing" comes from) through the holes in an assortment of beads to create beautiful necklaces, bracelets, or anklets. With all the colors and types of beads available these days the number of different jewelry pieces you can make is virtually limitless.

To complete your jewelry stringing pieces you just need to learn a few simple finishing techiques like how to add a jump ring and a clasp so that you can wear the jewelry piece. You can master those finishing techniques in a short period of time. Once you've done that you will be equipped to create some very nice handcrafted jewelry pieces in no time at all.

Eri Attebery operates http://www.JewelryMakingProfessor.com a site dedicated to offering products that teach how to make jewelry, and http://www.JewelryMakingInformation.com a site offering jewelry making tips, video tutorials, product reviews and resources for both jewelry making beginners and pros.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eri_Attebery

How to Buy Pearls - Does Pearl Size Matter?

When talking about the size of a pearl, you must talk about the variety of pearl as well. For example, size of a Chinese Freshwater Pearl is very different from size of a South Sea Pearl. The Freshwater Pearl is cultured using mantle-tissue nucleation; the South Sea Pearl is cultured using bead-nucleation. Mantle-tissue nucleation adds virtually nothing to the size of the pearl. Bead-nucleation is used to define the size of the pearl -- the bigger the bead, the bigger the pearl.

In this article, I will use two bead-nucleated pearls to discuss the Size Value Factor, one of seven value factors to consider when purchasing pearls and pearl jewelry. Tahitian cultured pearls and South Sea cultured pearls are both cultured using bead-nucleation. In bead-nucleation, a bead made from a freshwater mussel shell is inserted into the oyster as part of the culturing process. Also common to these pearl culturing processes, only one pearl is grown at a time. If the oyster produces a healthy, marketable pearl, the oyster may be implanted again. The subsequent nucleus must be slightly larger -- the size of the pearl just removed. So, the second generation pearl is larger.

The oyster is returned to the waters for its growing period. As with the first generation, this is 18 months to 3 years depending on the farm, growing conditions and desired results.

Upon harvesting the second generation pearl, a third generation implantation may occur. This is rare. As the oyster ages, the quality of pearls it produces goes down. Luster is highest in the first generation.

Can you tell if you are buying a first generation pearl or a third generation pearl? No. You cannot tell the ‘parentage’ of the mollusk just by looking. If you are working closely with the farm, you may have this information. But even the farm is most interested in producing fine quality, lustrous smooth pearls.

This article focused on considerations regarding size of just two varieties pearls. The best rule of thumb? Buy the pearls with the highest luster and the smoothest surface for the best investment value. Buy the pearls that appeal to your heart for the most pleasure.

Beth Schmitz, CEO Avant Pearl, GIA Pearls Graduate

A jewelry designer, businesswoman and self-proclaimed diva, Ms. Schmitz spent more than 20 years in business. Her creative side took control in 2001 when she chose to dedicate her life to the jewelry industry and the smart women like her who appreciate gorgeous baubles and have the means to pay for them.

Beth's online boutique, http://www.AvantPearl.com, features high-end pearl jewelry from leading designers, limited-edition manufacturers and skilled craftsmen throughout the world. She holds a degree from Harvard University and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beth_Schmitz

Beaded Lanyards for the Office

Work is an important and inevitable part of life. Flattering and comfortable office wear is essential. What you wear greatly affects how you feel about yourself and how you are perceived. For most women, dressing well is also a source of enjoyment and recognition. Yet when it comes to carrying badges, many women opt for the default ‘shoe lace’, at times unpleasantly contrasting their professional attire. At Medalye Designs we believe that security card badges offer women the perfect opportunity to make a subtle fashion statement. Office fashion generally falls into one of three categories: executive, artistic, and casual. Beaded lanyards, too, fall into these categories. Executive wear is best worn with an equally conservative lanyard. Artistic outfits are more expressive with artistic lanyards. And casual wear can be dressed up a notch with a suitable gentle lanyard.

Executive wear is seen in upper-level management, law, accounting, banking, finance, and corporate sales. These positions call for a look that is serious, confident, and knowledgeable. Clothing that is suitable for executive women includes suits, cashmere woollen sets, pressed shirts, and dress pants. Typically, executive fashion centers around primary and dark color themes such as navy, black, grey, and white. Beaded lanyards best complement such attire with clean lines, simple beads, and rich colors. Most notably are pearls, pearlized beads, clear glass beads, lustre finishes, ovals, rounds, and faceted crystal. Medalye Design’s

Forever Classic beaded lanyard is but one example of a dark classic design that would impeccably complete a black or white suit.

Artistic careers call for an ‘a la mode’ approach to wardrobe selection . They offer the most freedom for creative fashion. Women working in professions such as advertising, publishing, performing arts, fashion consulting, and interior design fall into this category. Such professions require apparel that gives a creative and fun impression. Typically, artistic wardrobes include bright colors such as red, turquoise, purple and the ‘hot’ color of the day. Likewise, beaded lanyards offer a perfect avenue to add creative flair and uniqueness to their already expressive fashion. Lanyard styles in this category come in bright colors and interesting shapes arranged in unexpected combinations. Common attributes are geometric beads, hand painted beads, lampwork, and unique shapes. Medalye Design’s

Anastasia exposes hand-painted sphere beads in intricate designs. Vibrant colors and sparkling pearls add the opulence of an 18th century painting. Another style, Neverland, combines pixie colors with unusual ovals to produce an effect that strikes the imagination.

Lastly, casual occupations call for attire that is simple, comfortable, and down to earth. Women working in education, health, customer service, and administration will often find casual wear appropriate. These positions require apparel which portray friendliness and openness. Such fashion usually comes in neutral soft colors such as beige, cream, soft black, pearl white, soft grey, and light pastels. Such colors come in a variety of non-imposing fabric textures such as wool, kaki, cotton, and jean. Common characteristics in casual beaded lanyards are matte textures, neutral colors, natural shapes, and delicate combinations. Medalye Design’s Desire is made of pastel shell beads with natural shapes and a relaxed finish. Athena’s natural color and simple finish put a faint yet pleasant touch to everyday casual wear.

By: Jacqueline Medalye

For selections of beaded card holders, visit here
For selections of beaded lanyards, visit here

Shopping for Beading Supplies

Shopping for Beading Supplies

Most people may not realize this, but beading can end up being one of the most expensive hobbies based on the types of material used. For example, a beaded necklace made from real diamonds can cost up to $100,000. Fortunately, you do not have to be rich in order to enjoy this hobby. By learning where and how to buy reasonably priced beading supplies, this hobby can be ideal for people who are on a limited budget.

How do you find the best deals on beading supplies? Do not worry, because it is not as difficult as you may think. Here are a few tips that have proven to work:

A. Beading does not always require costly gems or stones. Anybody can create a necklace from shells or small stones that are usually found on the beach. With a durable thread and needle, anyone can make bracelets, earrings, and necklace without spending a dime.

B. People who are willing to spend the money must learn how to get the greatest deals in the market. When working on limited numbers of design, it is recommended to buy supplies from local craft stores without the usual $10 shipping and handling fee for online transactions.

C. For business owners marketing beadworks that would like to buy large amount of beads and additional supplies, the best place to order is the Internet . Huge mark down are being offered online for beaders who are buying wholesale.

D. For buyers who are on a strict budget, the places to go are flea markets and garage sales. There, you can buy quality beading supplies for very low prices.

After learning how to save money, it is important for beaders to know exactly what they are looking for. Here are some general tips on buying beading supplies:

A. Beads are the most important element in beading. The appearance of the design will largely depend on them. Attentively choosing the color, size, and shape will definitely play a large part in developing quality and attractive beadwork . The most popular ones today are gemstones. These stones are quite costly, so that is why it is recommended that you buy them in authorized and trusted jewelry stores.

B. In selecting wire and threads, it is paramount to consider the beads that will be used. For pearls or other gems, it is recommended to use silk thread. This works best with beads that possess very small holes. On the other hand, when working with glass, use nylon or another durable synthetic threads that can withstand abrasion.

C. It is important for the beader to get a good set of pliers. The set includes needle nose, wire cutter, flat nose, and round nose. They have color-coded handles and they are lightweight, which is perfect for traveling beaders . These sets will usually run between $30-$35.

D. Beaders should also get stack jar containers with lids that are designed to organize the beads and threads according to colors and sizes.

E. A designing board is also one of the basic beading supplies. It is used for laying the beads before stringing them together using thread. This is a great tool to get exact measurements so that it will be easier to determine the center of the beadwork .

For any person that is interested in this hobby, the secret to in producing remarkable and quality beadwork is learning how to properly choose the beading supplies. Of course, if you are on a budget, the key is to creating the beadwork without spending too much money.

By: John Purdy

Several Bead Jewelry Designs

Working with beads can be fun and exciting in the same time for those who love to participate in arts and crafts . This can turn into a passion, but also into a business as well. Bead jewelry design is used for clothing and shoes decoration, and for many other things. All the spectacular beads can be used in bead jewelry designs, from small colorful beads to large beach theme beads.

Seashells can also be used o create beads designs, buttons, and many other decorative objects. Everything depends of the imagination and creativity, taste and experience. When someone decide to make bread jewelry design, is wise to begin using beads found at a local craft store.



The color and size must match with the project you are designing. There are many options to choose from, everything depends on your imagination and creativity. Ever the craft store looks like having a wide variety of products; remember that a craft store is not specialized in items to make bead jewelry designs. It is possible that after making some pieces of bead jewelry, you get tired of the selection offered to you there.

This is the moment when you can search some sites specialized in offering materials for bead jewelry design. There are many great sites that you’ll find convenient to become your only materials’ provider. You will have the possibility to buy from those sites all the supplies you need. Make sure that you made the best choice; you must collaborate with the most appropriate firm for you. If you can manage to have a long term relationship with them, it will be to your benefit.

You can read the reviews coming from the site’s clients. Many people are buying from the internet bead products. You can share their experience and opinions. Consumers’ review can be really useful and give you the information you need. You can find companies you didn’t’ even know existed, but it will give you the opportunity to learn from other people experience and don’t make the same mistakes.

There are some website that never comes through their promises that hey are proposing in the website content. It is not a pleasant experience to order your bead jewelry designs to a company online and wait a few days without any result. It is very discouraging to realize a few days after that your will not receive your beads and the money are lost.

After a serious research, you’ll find the serious online companies that can provide you everything you need; you can make bead jewelry and sell them after back on the internet.

It is a great chance to create a profit doing what you love to do. If the profit isn’t interesting you, the bead jewelry designs will be the most appropriate gift for your closest friends and family, on birthdays or special occasions.

Beaded Gem Stone Jewelry - Dare To Be Distinctive

The earliest known examples of jewelry are thought to be a pair of beads made from Nassarius shells, and is estimated to be around 100,000 years old. Using beads as jewelry to adorn the human form clearly has a long and illustrious history.

One of the benefits of gem stones is that each gem stone is unique, with distinctive visual features captured inside each stone. Combine numerous gem stones into a piece of beaded jewelry and you have a spectacular item that is truly unique.

The most popular form of gem stone beaded jewelry is probably the necklace. With all the different gem stone colors that one gets, it is very easy to find a beaded necklace that perfectly matches every single outfit that you have.

It is almost a favorite pastime of mine, to watch for and admire tasteful selections of gem stone jewelry at social events. A carefully selected item says a lot about the woman who wears it. Not only does it demonstrate her sense of style, selection, and taste, it also accentuates her natural beauty and pride of being a gorgeous woman.

The beaded gem stone necklace that I love most is the one with smaller and larger gem stones carefully arranged, with a few silver beads strung in amongst the gem stones.

Be careful with colors when you select such a necklace. More than two colors could make your expensive gem stone piece of jewelry look like a cheap necklace. One color is preferable, mixed in with a natural color such as silver or gold.

Another lovely item is a set of beaded gem stone earrings. They can both shorten a longer facial structure and lengthen the shorter facial structure.

Just one request, girls, when you wear an expensive set of beaded gem stone jewelry earrings, please do not hide them underneath loose hanging hair. That set of earrings begs to be out in the open, it pleads to be seen and admired, and it yearns to complement your good looks.

If you dare to be distinctive and wear something eye-catching and stunning, then you definitely need to acquire for yourself a few select beaded gem stone jewelry items.

by: Pierre Perissel

Beading For Beginners

Beading For Beginners

How many of you have gone to a party and seen some other women with stunning beaded jewelleries and accessories that you so much wanted? And when you ask where they got them from, the reply was that they made it themselves?

Wow! I can still remember the first time in university when I checked into a hostel and met my room mate. She came from China and had this collection of tibetan beaded accessories, strings and strings of them! She almost had a necklace, bracelet, earrings and more for every imaginable occasion. I practically had to beg her for some pieces when I'm off for parties! Not only that, she had a beaded coaster, beaded bags, and even beaded shoes! So one day I asked her: how did you do all these?

It turned out she had an aunt who was into the DIY business of sewing, beading and embroidery, and it was this aunt who taught her all the basics of beading which she eventually made a habit out of. I got her to teach me some basics, and from then on I simply couldn't stop beading!

Every start is difficult, I know, and without someone beside you correcting your every mistake, precious time will be wasted exploring all the possibilities and precious money will be wasted buying the wrong materials for your project.

This book I'm going to introduce to you - "Beading For Beginners", has everything you need to know about starting to bead. It contains very detailed explanations of the kinds of string, wire, thread, beads, colours, everything! that you will find yourself asking about.

I showed it to my room mate one day. It was in English, her second language. Yet she could explain to me everything that was in there, because the pictures were so clear! I have been practising my beading for two years, and now when I go for parties I am able to proudly wear matching necklaces and bracelets, all carefully beaded by me. If I can do it, with this book you will be an amateur beader in no time too.