Even though I have been making jewelry for many years, I still enjoy simple bead stringing. For jewelry making beginners, bead stringing is by far the easiest way to get started, and you can get pretty good at it in a short period of time.
In addition, you don’t need many fancy expensive tools to get started. You only need a few basic tools and supplies and you’re off and running.
Here are the basic tools you need for bead stringing.
Flush Cutter: This tool is good for cutting monofilament string, thin wire, and head pins.
Round Nose Pliers: This tool has a round tip which is used for making loops with head pins.
Flat Nose Pliers: These are similar to basic pliers but have a smooth surface inside the nose. This is a very useful all-around utility tool for jewelry making.
Glue: You probably won’t use it that often, but using glue to secure findings can add a little security. I recommend GS Hypo Cement.
When you choose what kind of beads you want to string, it seems there are an infinite number of bead types and colors. That’s what I like so much about bead stringing!
Crystal beads are very popular, but you can also string crystal pearls, gemstones, glass beads, and other assorted things. Your imagination is the only limit.
I get most of my beads from online stores like Artbeads.com, but if you live near a bead store you can visit and actually touch and feel the different beads. There’s an advantage to being able to see the real beads with your own eyes, which pictures on the internet can’t match.
You will also need findings like jump rings, spring rings, head pins, clasps, extenders, and ear hooks like French ear wires. With findings there are many different styles of these as well. As with beads, you can get findings at many online jewelry making stores, or at local bead shops or craft stores.
For the string, I prefer to use monofilament string or nylon coated wire, but there are other choices. For example, even though I don’t usually use a needle when I string beads you may find it easier to start with a needle. If so, you can get nylon thread that comes with a needle.
These are the basics, but should get you headed in the right direction with your bead stringing.
