10 Alternative Ways To Use Beads For Jewellery Making - By: Jamie Simpson

Beginners to jewellery making are usually familiar with the basic method of stringing beads on a thin elastic cord or even a bit of fishing line to create any piece of jewellery from rings to anklets to bracelets. While this does work and allows a certain amount of creativity in the choice of type of bead used, the colours of beads, and the order in which they are strung, the options for using beads for jewellery making stretch far beyond this basic technique. Here are ten different projects which you can use beads for jewellery making in alternative ways.

1. Fabric with button and bead embellishments

This can be used for anything from rings to headbands to create a fun, personal accessory. Simply select a scrap of fabric, either plain or patterned, of any material; then choose beads and a button that appeals to you. Using thread of a complementary colour, attach the button and beads to the fabric in any appealing pattern, then stitch the fabric closed in a loop of the appropriate size to fit.

2. Knitting or crocheting with pre-strung beads

You may not think of needlework when it comes to jewellery, but fine yarn, when strung with beads, can result in lovely cuffs, chokers, and other accessories. The internet has many tutorials to get you started.

3. Wire jewellery knitted or crocheted with beads

Using fine-gauge wire to knit or crochet jewellery is a growing trend but still a unique look. As with the fine yarn, pre-string the beads onto the wire in the preferred order. When doing needlework with wire, take frequent breaks to rest wrist and fingers and prevent fatigue problems.

4. Twisted wire bracelet with beads

You need not use knitting needles or a crochet hook to use wire with beads for brilliant and unique jewellery. Simply stringing beads on several strands of fine gauge wire and using pliers to add a gentle twist before twining the ends together will produce great results.

5. Plastic bracelet with bead mosaic

To make a cuff with a bold statement, take a plain plastic cuff or even a piece of plastic pipe with a large enough diameter and use a hot glue gun to attach beads in a mosaic pattern.

6. Bead and wire needlework pendant

If knitting or crocheting an entire length of bracelet seems too much, try making just a needlework pendant with beads at intervals and hang it from a chain or length of leather.

7. Headband with bead embellishments

If you have a boring headband that needs new life, sew rows of beads at intervals using regular needle and thread.

8. Multiple strand beaded anklets

For a fun ankle accessory, string several individual strands of beads, then tie them together at the clasp.

9. Necklace or Bracelet with wire-wrapped dangles

Use a single bead as an ornament using a simple wire wrapping technique, and hang one or more to ornament necklaces and bracelets.

10. Necklace with beads and found objects

Take an otherwise boring necklace and add a string of beads decorated with a household object that catches your eye, such as an antique key, a foreign coin, or even watch gears.

Enjoy these ten versatile ways to use beads for jewellery making!

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