Q: Has anyone had any luck with 'Justbeads'? I was planning on posting some
things there, but it seemed
there was a lot of stuff for sale and few bids... I like the concept of the
site, but I can't afford to spend time posting auctions (and spending money)
that will get no bidders. I've been fairly successful with 'eBay', and now
'Amazon' (somewhat)... 'Amazon' only charges 10 cents too...A: I have been selling on 'JustBeads' for 4 months now. I have been very pleased
with with the number of bids, the quality of the buyers, and...
Q: I am seeking some advice on what type of beading would make a good beginner's
project for someone with some stiffness in the hands.A: I suggest you start with simple strung necklaces. If you make long ones, they
don't even need findings. You can buy the beading thread with a needle already
attached, so you don't have to thread the needle (always a tough task, let
alone for someone with a little less hand dexterity). Larger beads are
beautiful and also easier to handle than the tiny ones.
My hands aren't stiff, but they tremor a bit from strokes....
Q: I'm relatively new to this art, and I'm about to make my first
beaded purse.
How long a piece of string (for lack of a better word) should
I start with, and what is the best way to knot together the
additional pieces?A: Start with as long as you're comfortable with. I use 14' for a single
thread (28' for doubled), but many people find they're more
comfortable at about 6'. In general, you don't need to knot at all.
When you have a foot or so of thread left, prepare another thread and
work it into...
Q: Does someone know where you can go on the net to get free seed-bead
Indian designs? I have designs for the 'Peace-Pipe', 'Thunderbird', 'Arrow',
and 'Tomahawk', and 'Alphabet'. I would like some for an 'Eagle', 'Teepee',
'Bowls', and others associated with Indian culture. If someone knows of
a good book to buy, I would like to know that too.A: 'Marelyn Letson' has some patterns on her site, and she has done a video of the
NA peyote stitch, it is an excellent teaching video. She uses big pony beads
and cord to show the stitch.
http://members.tripod.com/meiwei/beading.html...
Q: I would like to find some amulet purses to give as gifts for the
holidays and I'd like to see before I buy rather than order from
catalog or
webpage or ebay.I live in Nevada. Does anyone know of a reputable
craftsperson or beadwork artist that I could visit personally to acquireA: Look at the 'The Great Craft Festival' at Cashman Field in Las Vegas,
11/26-28. Maybe you can find some there. I've seen a bead person there
before. 'The Santa Fe Casino' in Vegas has a
Xmas Craft and Gift show this weekend too, but...
Q: Well, here I go again, advertising my ignorance!
what kinds of closures do you use on amulets? An
envelope flap? A drawstring inner lining? If you
get one made, how do you finish it off? duhh!!A: I generally use an envelope flap, but I know a woman who makes draw string
closures with silk cord that are just beautiful. She starts out the bag in
tubular brick and then switches to tubular right-angle weave for the top.
If you're talking peyote stitched amulet pouches, I defer to those
experts.
If you're talking about knitted beaded amulet...
Q: Could someone tell me the measurements for adult male and female anklets?A: Well, I'm not positive Brenda, but I think female ankle bracelets usually
come in 8" and 9".
Get out the tape measure ladies - I make bracelets in 6,6.5 & 7 inch sizes.
Anklets start at 9", and go to 11. That's female sizes - guys I can't help you
with. Could you find a handy volunteer?
Sorry, but I just had to comment on the bracelet sizes. As a 'larger' woman, I
find that the 7 inch bracelet is a bit too small for...
Q: We have a new one being built here in Cincinnati. I was wondering what kind of
beads and beading materials they might have. Is anyone familiar with this
place?A: I am searching for "bamboo" beads. They are tubes about the size of 'Bugle'
beads, and have joints at the ends and middle sometimes. I only found them in
Vancouver B.C., but I want more, and did not realize they were rare.
I lied (well, a little)! They have some "exotic wood tube beads" on pg.
122 of the Year 2000-2001 catalog, but they are...
Q: I am new to beading, and am looking for easy-bead rose and butterfly patterns.
I also live in the Chicago area. Anyone know of any beading groups or classes that
are starting, or looking for members?A: I have a free pattern of a rosebud on my webpage, if you are interested.
http://members.aol.com/CarolB1234/index.html
Classes. They are really into their stuff. I would call them & ask them for
help if they don't have a class right now, they are a great resource of
information. This weekend, they are having a 10-40% off merchandise, a grand
re-opening sale. I can't...
Q: I am looking for a mail-order source for what is called "Artistic Wire",
which is used with the various wire jigs ('Wire Wizard', 'Wig Jig', etc) to
make bent, and wrapped beads, as well as jewelry elements. 'Soft Flex' is the only
place I've found it, but they have a $50 minimum order, and I'd like to
order only 3 or 4 spools, which usually costs under $4 each. Does
anyone know of a company on the web other than 'Soft Flex' that sells this
wire? It's ususally 18 to 22 gauge, fairly soft, and comes...
Q: I am an artist who has recently begun to work in beads. Two shops carry my work and a third is interested. My question is, is it worth my time and money to get a wholesaler's license? I have noticed that many wonderful bead ads in Ornament and Lapidary have "Wholesale Only" catalogues.A: Hi, I design jewellery using glass beads and I have a tax # so that I can buy wholesale and it does make a large difference in my material costs. Also being able to slowly start buying various beads in 1/4 or...
Q: Does anyone know where I can purchase a book titled: "Bead, Accessories and
Bags"? The publisher is 'NHK'. The book is in Japanese, but it has great
illustrations and photos. A friend has borrowed this book, but needs to
return it, and wants her own copy.A: Two places to try: 'General Bead', in National City, does carry some Japanese
books. You could call them to see if they have that one.
#2: 'Asahiya Bookstore' - it's in the 'Mitsuya' store, between 'Staples' and 'Computer
City', in the shopping center on Mercury St, near Balboa Ave. Make...
Q: I have pre-strung size 6 'eBeads', leaving the thread attached to the spool
(this is how we were taught in class). What type of container, or spool
or whatever, do you bead crocheters out there use to make this project
more portable?
For my first project I have strung enough beads to create about a 20"
chain, but if I get more ambitious and want a really long rope, how
do I manage all those pre-strung beads????A: I use a small 'Ziplock' baggie to hold the spool or ball of thread with the
beads. You can zip up...
Q: I have recently downloaded 'Beadesigner', a free software program for
beading. I think it will work fine for 'graphic' designs, but I also
would like to work up some photos into beadwork (mostly amulet bags). I
also downloaded the 'Beader' program which will convert a picture into
beads (peyote, brick, loom, etc.). Unfortuately, I find that when I
load my picture and convert it, the program comes up with way too many
colors (I use 11's mostly - it's getting old, it can't stay focused on smaller).
To my knowledge, there are just NOT that many...
Q: I'm making a trip to the city to the bead district this week. On the last trip,
I used the 'Beadfairies' list of stores, but found many stores out of
business, and others up scary-looking elevators.
Does anyone have suggestions of where to go in the city for a day of
beadshopping fun?A: A lot depends on whether you have a resale number and on what you plan to
buy. There are some places along Broadway in the 20's (esp. between 27th &
28th St.) some of which require a resale number. 'Stone International' at 1160
Broadway, 5th...
Q: I need some advice if possible. I am working on three new areas for the
'Bead Fairies' site. One for pattern sites, one for instruction, and
another for online store sites. The dilemma is this: should I ask
before I link? The manners my mom taught me say... absolutely, but
on the other hand, a part of me wants to seek out great sites and link
immediately. I Would appreciate your good/bad input.A: My imput would be - who would complain about being linked to your site?
Not just because it's one of the best...
Q: Hi. We are planning a vacation in New England this September or October.
Can anyone advise on bead stores or bead fairs to visit while there? You
will see from our address that we are not able to obtain this information
at home. We are interested in general bead work, but not (yet) into
exotic things such as bead making.A: In the immediate Boston area, visit the Beadworks on Newbury Street in
downtown Boston. Sarah Young is the manager and she is extremely
knowledgeable and helpful. She can direct you to other shops and studios
throughout New England....
Q: 'Vibrant Jewels'
http://www.vibrantpages.com/jewelry/welcome.htm
I've created some jeweled centerpieces using vintage glass stones on a
wooden disk, and I've glued the centerpiece on leather, but I'm not sure
what kind of needle I need to sew the beads on. I have also looked at all
those diagrams of how many beads to go through, backtrack, etc., and must
confess I'm really puzzled...A: How thick is it?
Leather thickness is usually expressed in ounces, the average weight
of a square foot of a particular skin, as thickness varies somewhat
across a hide. This is why leathers are usually shown with...
Q: I am preparing to display my earrings, amulet/medicine bags, and chokers
(all seed bead weavings) in a craft mall, and would like to find a medium
size glass display case. It would need to be able to hold at least 10
pairs of earrings, 5 amulet bags, and 3 or 4 chokers, and be able to be
displayed on a counter or table. I am in Northeastern Oregon, but do
have access to Portland if need be, or will mail order if I can get a
good catalog. Please let me know if anyone knows of...
Q: I am desparately searching for a round, 12 mm, cedar wooden bead....preferably
unfinished, or only slightly varnished. This is for a Buddhist [meditation]
mala. I will need 108 of them.A: To Whom It May Concern: I just might have what you're looking for.
Unfortunately, I am unable to tell you the exact size. Although I can tell you
they are bigger than plastic pony beads. If you can help me out with a little
hint on determining the size of them, I would have no problem parting with
them. I only have 27...
Q: I am not a big Star Wars fan, so I probably won't see the movie until it
hits the video stores, but the film clips on the TV spots are
intriguing. The young female lead has many different headdresses and a
couple have a lot of beads. So my question is, has anyone found close-
ups of the beadwear in the movie? I would love to see some still
pictures.A: Well, I am going to see it tomorrow (would've seen it sooner but I had
two finals and a 22 page paper due), so I'll be...
Q: Can anyone tell me where I can buy beads in the UK?A: According to my 3rd Edition of 'The Bead Directory', these are the stores listed
in the UK:
'Beads!'
259 Portobello Rd.
London W11 1LR
phone/fax: 0171-792-3436
A shop with unusual, antique, prescious, ethnic and handmade loose beads, etc., as well
as African beadwork.
'Spangles'
1 Casburn Lane, Burwell in CambridgeCB5 OED
phone/fax: 011-44-638-742024
This shop is mailorder only with a specialty of birdcage lace bobbin spangles (beads surrounded in a tiny cage of beads).
I'm sending Suzi my (long) list of bead suppliers in Britain - anyone
else...
Q: I will be traveling to Portland, OR next week and Boston, MA in
Mid-January. I would like to do some bead shopping. Does anyone know
where some good places are to get beads? I am also interested in vintage
sewing tools.A: There is a great bead store in Hingham, Massachusetts. They are
primarily mail order, but don't mind people coming in. Their sale room is
wonderful!!! I don't know the name of the store, but they're in the book.
There are several in Boston: 'The Pear Tree', and 'Beadworks' come to
mind. If...
Q: Can anyone recommend any bead stores or tell me about ANY from the
Canadian border down TO Seattle, WA, but not IN Seattle?A: I am not aware of any north of Seattle (I am counting the 'burbs) that will not
require you to take a ferry. Since you are venturing south, why not add another
hour to the trip and come to Olympia?
I live outside of Seattle, and have never been to a store N. of Seattle,
but in 'Bead and Button' magazine, there is an ad for a Bellingham bead store.
I have never been there,...
Q: Having never been to one of these, can anyone offer any advice,
experiences, and discussion on bead trade shows? Do they differ from
other type of bead purchases? Are the prices competitive? What types
of exhibits, classes, etc.? What can I expect?A: I'm a newbie to the world of beads. I have picked up a lot of
useful info in this newsgroup.
I usually purchase beads from catalogs and stores. I've never gone to
a trade show. 'The International Gem And Jewelry Show' is coming to
Houston, and I thought it would be...
Q: I have a bead loom and at present I am working on my first project which is
a beaded hat band. My biggest problem is that once I have the right length
for the band I don't know how to remove the work from the loom. The book
that I have been using is called "The Technique of North American Indian
Beadwork" and for everything else it has been very informative and helpful
but on the removal of the piece from the loom the instructions are very
vague. If there is anyone who could give me any advice on...
Q: I bought a very pricey magnification light with excellent optics.
Never did get the hang of working with it though :) I now only
use it for checking my work when I am finished. I have found that
a high intensity lamp works best for me. I seem to just need my
work lit up like NYC, no necessarily magnified.A: I haven`t received mine either. I always wonder if the post office is messing
up my magazines. The U.S. postal system is really pretty good in getting
everybody's mail around considering the volume of mail through the system
each...
Q: Does anyone know where I can get inexpensive metal bracelet blanks.A: I have a very old 'Eastern Findings' company catalog. They are in there. They
advertise in 'B&B', and 'Beadwork' all the time. If they have an 800 number, call
and ask first whether or not they still carry them.
My store ('Metalliferous' - in NYC - 888-944-0909) sells bracelet blanks in
copper and stainless steel from 1/4" through 2" wide.
We will be closed until Jan. 2, but E-mail me and I will provide you with
more details.
Cindy Tipton of Cindy's Crafts carries the...
Q: I acquired some vintage or antique steel, and brass beads (slightly
faceted, 14s) from a friend of my mother. I haven't seen anything like them,
even at good-sized bead fairs. I only have a small stash. I'd like to know what
they are worth, or their replacement value. Any ideas?A: It sounds like you have landed some 'French Steel' cut beads. They are rare,
usually found out in old purses. The French steel cuts have a huge hole like
that of a delica bead. I have found mine at antique stores.
I just bought...
Q: My incredibly cool and adorable husband has gotten it into his head to build
me the Perfect Bead Box. He found turn-of-the-century sterling plate
hardware from an old cigar humidor and is going to build it out of thin
clouded walnut.
My question is: OK, you bead heads, if you were building the Perfect Bead
Box to be a portable work center and storage space, what features would
you want?A: Experience is the best teacher...if you'll be keeping any
small beads in this box, be sure...that's BE SURE that there
is a tight fitting lid for each compartment. ...
Q: I am trying to find Christian symbols that can be used in necklaces.
Any ideas?A: Are you looking for sources or simply ideas for symbols? The latter I
can give.
Cross, fish, chalice, lamb, grapes, angel, manger, star, loaf, shepherd's crook, arc, alpha/omega, dove, church building, empty tomb, Bible, mustard seed, harp, praying hands, palm branches, donkey, lily, and crown of thorns. I'm sure there are more.
Lamb? Do you know of a source for lamb beads? Lamb castings? Please email me the name of the source! Lambs are my favorite animals and I've been looking...
Q: I wonder if anyone can help me. I'm looking for some coin beads (well I
don't really know if you would call them beads) they are the kind of thing
which belly dancers use on their costumes. I'm going to make the 'Suzanne
Cooper' slot machine amulet, but before I start I want to find the coins
which hang on the fringe.A: Try 'Shipwreck Beads'. I do believe they have them in a few sizes in the catalog
and they may also have them online.
http://www.shipwreck.com/
It was in her last book.
She had it as a...
Q: I was wondering if anyone has ordered from this company. Their 1-800
ordering number has an answering machine so I wonder how quickly orders
are filled?
If anyone has any experience with them, I would like to hear from you. I
am ordering hex cut beads, triangle beads and square beads.A: If we are talking about the same place, Columbine Beads is in Iamjville,
MD. Their beads are beautiful! I've taken a class there too. The shop is
in a home, but is well organized. Linda owns it. Hope this helps.
What size hex bads are you...
Q: Does anyone know how to crochet beads into a rope to make necklaces?A: A couple of earlier 'Beadwork' magazines had instructions for crocheting beads
into a rope. I
couldn't quite make it work from the instructions, it's probably because
I've done very little
crochet work. 'Carol Perrenoud' has made a video, carried by 'Victorian
Videos', on bead crochet;
she includes a rope necklace. I think-at least I hope so! I have bought the
video, and I'm planning to
try it next week.
This video is fantastic, and yes, she includes really good instructions on how
to make...
Q: I need to order some more 'Delicas' and I would like to find who has the best
selection and descriptions. I have ordered from 'Fire Mountain' a few times,
but sometimes it's hard to tell the difference between their beads (i.e.
color lined and transparent look identical in the catalog, etc.) Otherwise,
they have given me excellent service. If anyone has any suggestions, I'd love
to hear them.A: You could try 'Caravan Beads' on the web. I think they are the ones who have
all the colors posted to the web. They are very good to deal...
Q: I have been under the impression that delicas and antiques, specifically
the ones sold through General Bead are the same only different colors.
So recently I bought some antiques from a local bead shop, along with
antique Bugle Beads. The Bugle beads are gorgeous, in fact if anybody
knows of a wholesale source I would appreciate getting an address.
I have not seen them listed in my listing from general bead.
Anyway, the seed beads were terrible. They were definitely not
consistent in size from one bead to the next. I thought that was
the great thing...
Q: What do you call making a living? I'm not being a wise-guy, but I think that
different people have different ideas of what is enough to live on.A: I have been making some kind of jewelry for over 30 years. In the last 5
years, my sister and I turned to beadwork. It's true, everyone has their
own opinion of what is enough to live on. We have been trying to divest
ourselves of our "day jobs" for about a year now, and have done small and
large craft/gift shops and sell to stores, primarily...
Q: How do you do this with a drill? Do you use a drill you hold in your
hands, or do you have your drill on some kind of apparatus that drops the
drill bit down on the bead, and how do you hold the bead in place? With
your fingers? If so, do you have any fingers left?A: You didn't say what type of bead you were interested in drilling, so I
thought I'd share my experience with 'Lavendar Jade' 8mm rounds.
I ran around our little island with a handful of undrilled 'Lavendar
Jade' rounds, and...
Q: Has anyone on the list ever used drop beads in an necklace design? They are teardrop-shaped glass or
stone that has been drilled from top to bottom.A: You could always try this. String beads with the drops attached on very light wire and hanging between the beads.
I have seen necklaces with the drops but they usually have other large
beads in addition to the drops. I also remember in the book BEADWORK
by Jules & Kaethe Kliot (Lacis publication) the yused drops and seed beads but the drops are threaded kind of like tassels.
I have used...
Q: Does anyone know where I can get 12mm faceted beads in Massachusetts?A: I dont have it handy, but have you tried 'EuroGlass' in Boston?
'Peter' may not have the appearance of the best prices, but he sure
as heck has only first quality.
Do you know of 'Anne Bush' in Worcester? I know she sells beads through her web site,
but perhaps she also has a retail space? Also, do you want fancy
crystal, or low-cost for crafts?
Try 'Crystal Blue Beads' in Watertown, on Mt. Auburn Street, also. They're at
(617) 923-2337. The last time I was in...
Q: I have what I know is going to sound like a silly question. I usually
use plain old round serrated, or plain edged crimps on my pieces.
The other day, I purchased some faceted crimps (3mm). I tried crimping
one shut, but it broke in half.
Is there a special way to crimp this type? I feel like such a dork for
asking this question, but I can't figure out how to keep these from
breaking. Does anyone else know what I am talking about?A: I hear that all the non-smooth crimp beads are more...
Q: I am looking for sources of fiber optic beads, especially faceted fiber
optic beads.
Does anyone know of any websites for fiber optic beads?A: http://members.aol.com/beyondbead/index.html
I don't know if 'Betcey' has them on the website yet, but her catalog supplement
that just arrived does have the faceted ones. If its not on her site, E-mail
her, and she will reply with the info on what she's got.
'Fire Mountain Gems' has them also.
1-800-423-2319.
As does 'Arizona Bead Company'. According to their ad in...
Q: I've been doing some simple pieces from silver (sheet & wire), cabochons, a
few settings & a dabble of silver & bead work. Basically, to arrive at my
selling price I just doubled my material cost for each piece and this has
pretty much worked out fine.A: The first thing that you have to remember is that, unless you are cheating
the IRS, your time is going to be at least $30 an hour (if you don't
care to be paid for your work) and will be a lot more as your
equipment goes up. This covers...
Q: I privately asked the lady who listed her 'FMG' story, who these people
were that had been hurt by 'FMG' so that we could make amends. She
responded that I could read the board and find out for myself.
I went back and read the board, and other than her story, there weren't
any other listings which talked about 'Fire Mountain' in a negative
manner. I thanked her for her input.A: I assume you are from 'Fire Mountain', and haven't been keeping up on the boards
recently, so haven't followed any of this... but just wanted to...
Q: My wife and I make fused dichroic glass earrings in our kiln. We have
seen some work by other artists where they have apparently fused some
refractory wire into the glass, which is then simply looped to form the
earring. This material looks like a gold and/or platinum alloy, and it
obviously has the right properties for the application.A: * Looks good on the final product.
* Highly ductile.
* Does not oxidize or melt in the kiln at around 1500 F.
* Coefficient of expansion is compatible with the glass.
* Looks as if it does...
Q: A "Gem & Jewelry " Show is coming to Washington, DC this weekend. Is it
worth scouting for beads and the like? Any info about these shows
anybody???A: Definitely. If it's the 'International Gem & Jewelry Shows' (usually held at
'The Sheraton Washington', the 'Convention Center', or out in the boonies toward
Baltimore), it'll be packed and a lot of fun. There'll be everything from
$150,000 necklaces, to semi-precious beads, to wooden fountain pens. I
generally don't take my credit card because it's too tempting to buy a
couple thousand bucks worth of stuff I'll never use....
Q: Dear fellow beaders, I am a complete and total beginner beader. I am
drawn to the beauty of antique/vintage beads and gemstones. My question
is: can you, as an artist, tell the difference between a good quality
glass crystal bead and a gemstone bead (assuming roughly the same
color, size and cut of the beads)? Should I be saving up for real ruby
beads (for example) or be looking for red, better quality, crystal
beads?A: Yes, you certainly can tell the difference. While it is POSSIBLE to
purchase ruby beads which are eye clean, you would pay such...
Q: I'm researching how to make a glass bead press but I'm having trouble
figuring out exactly how they work. Has anyone ever seen or maybe even
used one? All assistance appreciated!A: Do you mean a tool to press hot glass into a flat bead? You can buy one
from several outlets, such as Frantz Bead at 206-426-6712. The area code
might be wrong, as it's changed, but if so, a Voice will give you the
correct one when you call the number.
See if you can find a copy (try interlibrary loan) of
Perlen aus Gablonz (Glass...
Q: I use alot of glass beads. Not so much seed beads, but larger ones. I am
looking for a good source for these. I know of 'Fire Mountain Gems',
'Shipwrecked', and 'Ecletic Etc'. Can you give me some good sources for companies
with lots of cool glass beads?
Also, I am looking for a source for a bead I use a lot. It's a trianglular
shape that is kind of like lampwork. It is Flat in the sense that a disc is
flat. They are about 10-12mm long on the sides. Does...
Q: Friends of mine are looking for a glue that is a strong bond from
metal to metal, that will stand up to jewelry shock impact...that's
it...any suggestions?A: Is the bond going to show? Is there a reason that they do not want to solder the pieces? What kinds of metal and what texture? No glue will ever make a GREAT metal bonding material, though some are better than others. How much shock must the bond withstand (what type of jewelry, earrings, or bracelets)?
Try 2-part 'Epoxy', or liquid nail. They both work well, but you have to...
Q: I am trying to convert a loom pattern of the pow&mia sign into peyote,
but I cannot find any graphs about.com used to have, but now it does not
come up anymore.A: I don't know about online sources, but I bought some at 'Pearl's' in South
Florida. Have you checked your bead store or (good) craft shop?
http://www.flash.net/~mjtafoya/home.htm
'Aunt Molly's Bead Street'
She has both loom and peyote graph papers.
Look under the "Patterns" link.
You can find free beading graph papers here:
http://members.xoom.com/LisaAnnette/graphpaper/graphpaper.html
Have you tried just typing in "peyote stitch graph pattern" into a
search engine...
Q: I'm interesting in learning how to bead chains, purses, etc. Can anyone
recommend a good book or website with instructions for novices?A: 'Creative Bead Weaving', I think is the title...by 'Carol Wilcox Wells'.
Excellent beading primer, and projects to start.
Also, try http://beadwork.miningco.com for basic instructions.
http://www.suzannecooper.com has some instructions, too.
There is a site from 'The Mining Co.' that has every type of instruction that
you would need. The "addy" is: http://beadwork.miningco.com/
I learned to bead from this site, and some help from the wonderful people on their B board.
Check them out....
Q: I am in search of some beads, here's the description:
drk red the lot number is H0144B, 'Rocailles' czech beads, does anyone know where
I can order these by the 1/2 or whole kilo?A: Try 'General Bead' - http://www.genbead.com
They will probably call the silver lined - and may list as having a square
hole, but they are a very popular color.
I actually found them in Japanese 11's recently... *grin* (not here).
Try my site, too - I have lots of Czech seedbeads, including dark red
silverlined.
They're under the size 10/0 section, but I have them...
Q: Are you actually sewing the bead designs? If they are calling for #10, you are
probably doing regular free-hand beadwork.A: I've really been enjoying reading this newsgroup over the past week.
:-) I'm new to beading, and obsessed already! I've already made
necklaces for all of my friends. One of my pals wears her necklace
everyday! I'm SO pleased, since I made it with power beads and other
beads that will help her get through her impending divorce.
Anyway, before I ramble anymore, I picked up a book on bead purses and
I have NEVER sewn with beads, so...
Q: I'm a beginning beader, working so far with 11/0 seed beads and 3/0 bugle
beads. I seem to be having a recurring problem with the loops I add as
dangles to the bottom of Deon DeLange-style earrings (bugle base row,
Comanche stitch above, dangles or loops below). The loops have a tendency
to twist - I haven't found a way yet to combat this. Am I doing something
wrong technique-wise, or am I going to have to live with this?! :-) BTW,
I use Nymo, size 0, for these earrings.A: What exactly do you mean...
Q: I have just begun using a small torch to make glass beads, and for some
reason, they will not come off of the mandrels. I have the seperator on thick
and thin, tried both. My bead-making has improved, but I have to break them
to remove them from the mandrel.A: If you haven't already, try gripping the mandrel with a pair of pliers while
you twist the bead. If that doesn't work, my only suggestion is that there's
something wrong with the separator; check to make sure you're getting thorough
coverage on the mandrel, so you have...
Q: As you can tell, I am new to computers, which is the reason for my post. I am trying to build
a website for my beading and HTML, and I we are not "getting along". One question
I have that I can not find an answer for anywhere is: What size do I make the
graphics (not DPI, but physical size)? Also, should I use GIF or JPEG?A: They should be any reasonable size that you like.
Some people hate larger photos because they
take longer to load, but if the photo is good quality,
and the excess background...
Q: Could anyone suggest a truly excellent catalogue source of gem
stone beads? Christmas approaches and I'd like to be able to give my old friend, a devoted beadworker, a gift certificate. She has very high
standards.A: You might try Earthstone, New York City, or South Pacific, Montpelier,
VT. Ask about their return policy, since your friend seems to have
high standards.
How about the address for these catalogues? I love getting catalogues
and because I don't have time to get out to the bead shops, catalogues are the best for me. Could you e-mail the address either...
Q: When I purchase beads, they seem to mostly come strung.
How do they do that?
Especially with seed beads and chips. I'm almost sure that they cannot be
doing it by hand.A: I saw a documentary where workers in India held many thin, very long
threaded needles in both hands and dipped them repeatedly into a big vat of
seed beads. It was amazing how quickly they'd fill each one, and then an
entire handful of beaded threads made a hank.
Gee, I can't even get the dip-and-fill routine to work with a SINGLE
needle...;-)
I've also...
Q: I saw the article on Huichol beading in B&B calling for beeswax and petroleum
jelly as a binding medium. I was wondering if anyone out there has tried
using polymer clay instead (rolled into a sheet and mounted on a bowl or
whatever). I have thought about doing this but wonder if the seed beads would
survive being baked. Anyone know?A: The polymer clay Huichol idea sounds interesting enough
to at least try, but what I suspect will happen is the
polymer will shrink ever so slightly upon baking.
Just
enough to loosen it's grip on...
Q: I got pretty good results making a glass illusion necklace using 'Berkeley
Trilene "Extra Limp" #12' test line. Rather than gluing the scattered beads
into position, I looped the thread back through a small seed bead on each side
of the larger beads. This holds the beads in place, but unlike knotting, one
can loosen the cord and slide the beads along if one wants to re-position
something. One can also scatter seed beads along the threads by this method,
using silver crimp tubes to end the monofilament strands. I covered the ends
with a standard...
Q: Awhile back, 'Cleaning Beads' discussed, specifically, how to get rid
of that white powder that I believe was called "kiln wash." I ordered
some India glass beads and was warned that they might have significant
amounts of 'Kiln Wash', so I was wondering if anyone could post the
cleaning information again. Also, I seem to recall that there was
something special about where you had to dump the used water, something
about the kiln wash made it dangerous. Any clarification on that would
also be of help.A: You need to soak the beads in water, then...
Q: I am making a necklace that consists of large turquoise beads strung on
'Softflex'. I am planning on placing seed beeds around some of the
turquoise beads using 'Nymo'. I guess I'm going to place the knot right
on the 'Softflex' unless I come up with a better idea. Can anybody
recommend a specific type of knot for this? I've never done this but
I've seen similar works with this type of technique. Also, should I use
some type of knot glue and if so what kind - is nail polish okay, or...
Q: Is there anyone out there who could make a pair of 'Gumby's' for earrings and
a larger one for a pendant in time for me to have them by the 22nd of
this month?A: I just saw beads at one of the auctions that looked exactly like 'Gumby's', but
I don't remember which auction it was - probably Amazon, either in beads or in
Z-shop.
I asked one of our local lampwork artists about the 'Gumby' earrings and
pendant.
She told me that she felt that 'Gumby' was a protected trademark and she
wouldn't reproduce it.
You might find...
Q: I've been making some beads with 'Moretti' rods and silver foil. Sometimes
when I put the silver on a bead and then case it with clear, it turns an
amber color. Can anyone tell me why this is happening? It doesn't get
bubbly or smokey like when there's too much propane. I'm puzzled.A: At 'Embellishment' this year, I bought a beautiful lampwork bead
from 'Jeffrey Rogers'. He works in clear 'Pyrex' glass, and he somehow
vaporizes silver and gold onto the clear glass as he works. The bead I
purchased had nothing in...
Q: I've taken some classes here in SD at several places, but
there are none on wire work that I've found going on after the first of
the year. A good friend and fellow bead addict wants to send me to a
class as a 'Kissmas Pressie'.A: 'Shepherdess' has had wire work classes in the past; you could call and ask if
they'll be having any more ('Lynn Merchant' was one of the instructors...).
Also, 'Oksadusa' may have something.......
In North County - 'Del Mar', I think. Fairly close to the Fairgrounds. I've only
been there once - I stopped...
Q: I looking for pictures of early designs of glass beads. I am looking for
evolving styles from the beginning of glass bead manufacturing to the
present day.A: Take a look at 'Lois Sherr Dubin's', "The History of Beads". If your library
doesn't have it, you might request it from inter-library loan, or take a look at
a copy at your local 'Barnes & Noble', or 'Borders Books'. This book contains a
wonderful timeline of beads throughout history.
Perhaps, take a look at the big chart at the end of 'Sher Dubin's' book "The
History of Beads"....
Q: The earring findings in the bead catalogs I have are more for
costume jewelry. I want to make a pair of pearl earrings for my
daughter for her wedding (Jan. 22) that would be of good quality
gold. Does anyone know a source that I could find these - fast?!A: 'Fire Mountain Gems' in Oregon has what you are looking for.
I have done several weddings using both their gold and silver findings as
well as their pearls.
You can reach them at:
1-800-423-2319
It sounds from your post as though you...
Q: I have been lurking for some time and have found this newgroup full of
information.
Being relatively new to beading, I would like to know how long a daisy chain
necklace and a daisy chain bracelet should be for an eight year old child.
I am also concerned how to make the necklace safe for her to wear. This is
to be a gift, and I certainly don't want to endanger her in any way.A: I think it would be best to make the necklace the same length you would
make a short necklace for an adult -...
Q: Could someone help me with the history on 'Vaseline Trade Beads'? Specifically,
where and when were they made? How were they made? I have some beautiful
strands in three colors; yellow, green and greasy pale green, and want to be
correct on the history I pass on to our customers.A: I'm no expert, but I do collect trade beads. 'Vaseline' beads are Bohemian, and
are press molded, and then have the facets ground on. They date from 1830 to
1900. If you plan to sell trade or other ancient beads, I would strongly...
Q: I have been searching all over for a type of bead that my mother found
this past weekendin East Tennessee. It is a magnetic stone bead. The
necklace she brought back had small beads on it, but I would be
grateful for any sized bead, really.A: Any stone or metal bead with enough iron in it will magnetize, so can you
describe these a bit? How small were the beads; about as little as
seed beads, or about the size of a pea? Natural stone color or silvery, etc.
This would help us figure out what you are...
Q: I have just discovered bead looming (in the last 2 weeks), and am addicted.
I have surfed the net several times re. beads, and SO much information is
from the USA. I don't mind this - there are some great sites, but I would
love to see some British sites, especially with details of suppliers -
with the possibility of ordering over the net.
Can anyone send me in the right direction? Are there tuition groups, etc. in
London?A: According to some of my customers, there aren't a lot of beads available in
England. Many of them...
Q: If you use 'Nymo' beading thread, you'll do better, but if you can add a
seed bead to either side of the bugle (that is, if it won't affect the
pattern), you thread will never be ut....we do this all the time and it
works like a charm.A: My old problem has come home to roost! I do have a solution
of sorts... this did the trick, and I have made thousands of base rows
like this. I use the bugle and a regular seed bead on either end as a
"stack" ,count, seed, bugle, seed as...
Q: Can someone help me? I am beading bracelets on a loom, using 'Delicas' 11/o,
and 'Size D' 'Nymo' thread. The 'Nymo' thread comes from two sources. (1) a large
spool, 3 ounces (2) a small spool. The finished bracelet has a "nice hand"
when I use the smaller spool. While the finished bracelet is "stiff" when
I use the large spool, there is a difference between the texture of the
threads. I know they are the same 'size D'. Is this normal?A: The 'Nymo' on cone, and 'Nymo' on bobbin is a different thread. One is designed...
Q: Why do I never see 'Opal Beads'?A: 'Opal' is too soft a gemstone - it's difficult enough to make cabochons, let
alone drill a hole. The nearest thing would be a moonstone bead or a jadite. See
'Fire Mountain's' catalog.
Actually, you can buy opal beads - I use them sometimes - and the prices range
from sorta reasonable, to outrageous. Any gem dealer that sells carved 'Opal'
will probably either have 'Opal' beads, or know where to find them; I usually
find mine at the bigger gem/bead shows, mostly from Australian dealers.
'Lapidary Journal' sometimes carries ads...
Q: I'm new to beading, and I'm in the process of trying to start a small business
making jewelry. Can anyone tell me some good sources to buy beads
wholesale - preferrably from places that don't require a tax ID #? I
plan to get a tax ID # soon, but don't have one yet. Also, I am not sure
how to price jewelry. Can anyone give me some ideas on how much
to charge? I would appreciate any tips that anyone can give me for
"getting started" on my business adventure.A: Most true wholesalers...
Q: I have some wonderful red clay that I
would like to know how to work into
beads. I tried making some, and a lot of
them broke while drying.
I know someone who can fire them for me.
If someone can point me in the right
direction, I would be grateful.A: It sounds to me like you were either working with the clay while it was too dry, or
letting the beads dry too fast. After you make your beads, try covering loosely
with plastic so they dry more slowly. Also, keep in mind that clay...
Q: 1. When cleaning something like a rosary, how do you remove silver
tarnish without stripping the 'AB' finish from glass beads or harming the
beads in any other manner?
2. If I wish to use something other than silver wire, what should I
use? Do the more common crafting wires like tinned copper discolor?
What if they come in contact with water?A: 'Rio Grande's' catalog had something re: running strings of "liquid silver"
through a handful of baking soda to remove tarnish. Maybe that would work for
wire, too. I don't know if it would...
Q: My name is 'Lori Peterson', and I have been beading for about 2 years now, and
would love to find someone who understands my obsession with beads. My
hubby and friends think I'm slightly nuts, so I would love someone to share
my excitement when the local bead store gets a new color in or when I
finally get the fringe right on my latest work-in-progress. I am also
looking for someone with whom I could combine mail-orders with in order to
avoid the dreaded "surcharge for small order".A: Wow! Only slightly nuts! Stick around us...
Q: We will be going to Santa Fe next month. Could anyone
advise on best beads stores there?A: When you check into your hotel, ask about the flea market in Santa
Fe that's open on Saturdays. Lots of beads there!
Let's see now... I know of at least five:
1. There is 'Beadweaver' on the Paseo de Paralta (tons of 'Delicas' - probably 500
colors)..
2. 'Winona's' is on the main drag into town and has tons of seed
beads - lots of 11s, 12s, 13s, and 3-cuts. She's wonderful to talk to, as well....
Q: I am trying to find a tool that is best for drilling holes in seashells so
they can be used in my jewelry. I am aware of the inherent dangers, so I need
something that will work underwater. Any ideas?A: I used a rechargeable 'Dremel' tool when I drilled some seashells. It was a
little slow, but it did work (you don't want to put the tool all the way
under the water, just the bit). Use the hardest bit you can find. I might
also try my other 'Dremel', but only with the 'Flex-Shaft' attachment....
Q: Ok, dumb question here. What is 'Bali Silver'? Is it Sterling, or some other
composition?A: Some is sterling, some isn't. I sell '925 Sterling Bali silver' -
they're little works of art handmade by Silversmiths in Bali,
Indonesia. I don't sell gold-plated because plating always wears off.
'Vermeil' is gold (usually 14KT or better) over sterling silver. The plating is
a little thicker than standard "gold plate", so it will wear OK (although it will
EVENTUALLY wear off). 'Vermeil' is used by a lot of the "museum shop" catalogs
for the reproductions they...
Q: Has anyone ordered from this company? I'd like to hear of your
experience before I go ahead and place my order.A: Their prices are so good; I just got a huge order from them a few days ago, and
it's amazing to me to see so many beautiful beads for such a great price.
About the shipping: if you order $50 worth, shipping on the first 10 lbs is
free. I've never had to pay for my shipping.
I live in Seattle, and the drive to shipwreck isn't a long one. I have
only been to their old...
Q: I recently acquired a fancy glass bead, and had no idea what it was. I
took it to a local glassblower who said it was "soda lime glass". Not
wanting to appear ignorant, I thanked the man and left.
Now to be ignorant... what is "soda lime glass"? Is this good?A: Calcined limestone, which added to the glass batch in small quantities,
gives stability. Before the 17th century, when its beneficial effects became
known, lime was introduced fortuitously as an impurity in the raw materials.
Insufficient lime can cause crizzling.
Soda-lime glass is the most common (90% of glass...
Q: I always seem to miss the appropriate bead show! Anybody know where I can get
these?A: If you live in southern California, tomorrow at the bead society bazaar, you
can find 'Klew' polymer clay beads sold by the artist herself. 'Fimo' is just
one of many brands of polymer clay. Most artists use more than one brand.
Particulars of how to get to the bazaar are at:
http://home.att.net/~beadsla/bazaar.htm
If you don't live in CA or can't get to the show, 'KLEW's' beads (which
are stunning by the way!) are available online through 'Three Beads'
http://www.threebeads.com ~...
Q: Does anyone know where to get sterling chain thin enough to
string beads on?A: If you choose your beads carefully, you should be able to do this. I use
cable, fine 'Figure 8', or very fine rope chains. You can hang lampwork or
furnace glass easily, and some larger 'SS' beads. Try 5-6mm sizes. It depends on
the manufacturer, but the larger sizes seem to have larger holes, and of
course, stone donuts will work. Maybe E beads. Some India glass has larger
holes also, but semi-precious stones or pearls will never work....
Q: I was unaware that the AB coating was done
in a vaccuum chamber. I thought the coatings
were applied (metallic salts) then fired on
during the manufacturing process. I
also have never heard of coating companies.
Can you send me some details? I think I
can etch the beads if I find some with AB
finish, but have never heard of being able to
apply an AB finish after the fact.A: One picture is worth a 1000 words, or at least 100.
The bead is indeed a "druk" and the glass is quite common.
It also is 'AB' coated...
Q: I'm looking for a reliable source (preferably online) for stone
Egyptian-style mini-fans. I've surfed all over, but can't seem to come up
with anything. Can any of you point me in the right direction?A: You may want to go up on 'Amazon' and do a search in 'Auctions'
for "Egyptian fan."
There's a seller named "dolphinx" that has several sets up for auction.
I haven't dealt with them, but it may be a good starting point for your
search. Here's the link. It's long and you'll probably have to cut and
paste the pieces. After you reach...
Q: I know that this has been asked and answered before, but I'm having trouble
finding out the information in the archives. I bought some 'Stretch Magic' and
make a watch. I have the 1mm and am using 3 strands (heavy lampwork beaded
band). I'm having trouble with the knots. They seem to come undone, it could be
the 3 strands, but I'm trying just to knot 2 strands together. What glue
are people using and what shouldn't I use? I know I have read about some
glues eating through the plastic (or whatever that stuff is). Any...
Q: I make fused glass pendants and some lampwork beads and I've strung a few on
softflex ( I think ) but I was wondering what you would all recommend? I
want the pieces to be strong, but I'd also like to be
able to knot between the beads.A: Knotting between the beads is usually done with very soft stones and pearls. Also,
silk is used. Illusion necklaces are knotted on clear nylon line. With
lampwork, and most glass (other than illusion necklaces), I'd stick with the
'Softflex' and use small spacer beads rather than knot.
I'm glad...
Q: I have worked with 'Tigertail' and 'Nymo' in making necklaces. 'Tigertail' is so
stiff that one needs to be so careful not to knick it, and 'Nymo' is so fine it
breaks and easily slips through jumprings. What are some other stringing
materials that might better suit my needs. I work with heavier beads, using
some seed beads and metal beads.A: I really like 'Softflex' for heavier beads. I use .19 size and find it really
drapes well for all seed bead projects. Mine usually have a dichroic glass
pendant as the centerpiece and...
Q: I recently purchased some lovely floral carved 'Bone Beads'.
I wanted them to have an "antique" appearance, so I soaked them in tea water
to color them.
Now the beads have a terrible odor that I can smell when I'm wearing them in
the necklace that I made with just 5 of them.
Any suggestions as to how to get rid of this terrible odor?A: By getting them soaking wet, you made them grow bacteria. Bone is a
natural substance, a natural base for germs, so you don't want to soak
them. I'm not sure there's anything...
Q: I'm getting serious about making this! I'm gonna start it Aug 19th, in Indy, my
"Olympics project". The leather, to make the chest, should be here by then,
1/2 hide, very thick, 23.25 sq feet. The lights, which will be hidden pretty
deep to give an indirect effect, will be 1 or 2 strands of 8 function christmas
lights that I have currently made into "wreaths". I found a super fiber-optic
lighting set for this, but they wanted over $400!!!A: I got the styrofoam and probably have what I'll use for the baseboard.
Somewhere,...
Q: I was thinking of some masculine colored beads, some chain, and I saw in
'Fire Mountain' some round, 8 mm 'Swarovski' crystals! Would these crystals
throw a rainbow? If not, what is the name of something that would throw
a rainbow like a prism? I'd like to make my cousin something so he
would always have rainbows!A: 'Swarovski' crystals will indeed make rainbows - many beautiful ones, and
they are available in many "masculine" colors. They are a high
quality lead crystal, and should make a gorgeous sun-catcher. :)
Please make it "child proof", that...
Q: Has anyone seen round faceted crystal at the 3 mm size? The smallest crystal
I can find is 4mm at 'Gemorama'... but the 'Swavorsky' is in quotes, so
I don't know if it's real.A: Have you tried 'Purple Finch'? If they don't have them, they may be able to tell
you who does.
http://www.conknet.com/~m_bunis/pfinch/PFhome.htm
And I would assume 'Gem-o-rama's' are 'Swarovski' - they tend to use quotes like
that a lot - I think they are one of the places where English is not their
first language! I have never had anything from them...
Q: Could you possibly shorten it at the waist?
is there any way you could take up a tuck in the plain part of the skirt
and cover it with some beading or braid or what have you?
do you have a professional near you who does wedding gowns, etc. and who
could alter the dress for you (IME, most bridal hire places ALWAYS
have such a person on staff)?A: Buy it. You'll hate yourself for years if you don't.
Things like beaded hemlines can be written down & diagrammed
so that you can shorten it later.
Who knows,...
Q: I am fairly new to beading and I would like to make some of the
bracelets that are very popular now - they are single strands of seed beads,
worn many at a time (as seen on 'Claire Danes' in "Brokedown Palace" and in
the Sept. 'In-Style'). I've ordered some beautiful size 15 hex-cut beads, but
I am desperately seeking elastic-type string to string these on. I don't
want the bracelets to have clasps - I'd rather be able to stretch them out
to slide over my hand & have them shrink back to shape for a...
Q: Where is the cheapest place to order seeds and 'Delicas'?
I have ordered from 'FMG', but once I discovered cheaper alternatives I was
like: "screw this!" Good service is important, too, of course...A: I would politely disagree with this. I often bead with size 15 beads,
and a VERY fine needle, and don't really have any problem threading it
with 'Silamide', and 'Silamide' is strong, flexible, and slippery
enough to go through even TINY beads three or four times.
I have been wanting to buy 'Kevlar' thread for my bracelets. I was wondering
if anybody has used...
Q: I've been making 'Crochet' beaded purses, using #30 'Crochet Thread', and
#20 thread. I've just bought several colors in #10 thread but am
having a hard time threading it. The only reason I bought them is I
couldn't find the colors I wanted in the smaller sizes. Has anyone
had as much trouble threading the beads as me? Any tips as to how I
can prevent hurting my hands even more? I have arthritis and carpal
tunnel. Doing needlework is good theapy, but this threading is
killing my hands.A: I found that some of the Czech beads have irregular...
Q: I was wondering if anybody could tell me offhand - I am looking for 'Nymo' in size
A......are there different colors, and who carries it?A: Several carry a big variety of colors in size 0 or size B, but I'm
finding little in size A from online catalogs. I don't have a 'Fire
Mountain Gems' catalog, or 'Rio Grande' catalog here. Maybe
someone could check those, as their online sites are very weak, but
they have lots of products in the catalogs.
'Beadcats' has light and dark brown bobbins.
http://www.beadcats.com/index.htm
'Shipwreck Beads' has spools in black.
http://www.shipwreck.com/...
Q: I'm working on my first amulet bag and I am making the "Electric
Blue" bag in 'Carol Wilcock's' book. This is my first tubular peyote piece, and
I used a cardboard tube cut down to the correct size. I've finished the body
of the bag and slipped it off the tube. It looks even and smooth, but it is a
little stiff. I flattened it and added the bottom flap and stitched it
together and it's okay, just stiff. Did I make the tension too tight, or should
it be a little stiff?A: This...
Q: I'm hoping someone can point me in the right direction of what the different
stitching methods are. I don't know what the "peyote stitch" is, compared to a
"Brick stitch" or any of those.A: The new book from 'Interweave Press': "BeadWork Companion", $19.95
is an excellent resource for both the beginning and experienced
beader.
Most of my friends have been quite pleased with it, and because of
its compact size and spriral binding, it is easy to take anywear.
As more and more pattern books are coming out without stitch
instructions, this book will become an even more...
Q: I have a question that is driving me nuts!!! I apologize if the group has
discussed the answer in the last week. I accidently erased the messages
before I could read them.
Is there any websites dedicated to new beaders? In particular, is there
anyplace that actually explains what the different kinds of beads are and
what they look like? I keep seeing referrals to different kinds of beads,
and would like to know what they look like.A: That's ok, if we beaders can't help someone just starting in the
hobby, then we would be a very sorry...
Q: Can someone tell me about Ultrasuede? Is it synthetic? Does it come in pieces large enough for cabochon backing, etc.? Most importantly, can anyone give me a source for it?A: Ultrasuede is a synthetic fabric. You can buy it in fabric stores by
the yard. It comes in many colors, and sometimes with an embossed
pattern on it to make it look more like tooled leather. If you buy
a yard, you'll have plenty enough for your next 10 or 20 projects. ;}
Since you're just using it as a backing, buy the...
Q: I've just recently started beading, and the biggest problem I am having
is searching through my beads to find ones that are uniform in size. Even
the ones that come in the same packages seem to vary in size just enough to
make things look uneven. Does anyone have a technique they use, or any
advice to help make this an easier task?A: Although it may sound a little trite, you do get what you pay for. If you've
been buying beads in little cellophane bags at the local craft/fabric store
as opposed to spending a little...
Q: I just saw these in the local bead shop: semi-precious beads that are
cut to the shapes of diamonds, clubs, hearts, and spades. The shop was
only selling them as strings, but I'm sorely tempted to buy some before
they disappear.A: I've seen those beads sold too. I think they were sold under the name "poker beads." I think there are only 2 places I know that sell them. One place was wholesale only (not to the public) so I never got anything from them. The other place I can't remember the name...
Q: I finally have gotten around to creating a web page to show off my collection
of nail heads. I know they are not truly beads, but they do have holes so it
counts in my book.A: Hmmm, wondered what you meant by this? Then, I started to write the definition of
a bead, and realized it included buttons, and then sequins. When I show my
relatives a 'Mavis' lampworked mermaid, they agree, "That is not a bead!" To me,
it is, and nailheads count in my book, too. Guess what's a bead is in the...
Q: I have lost the directions on how to construct a "weaver's knot", which is a
great knot to connect one thread to another. I think I saw it in an old
'Bead and Button' - but then, I gave them all away.A: Here's a variation that produces the same (I'm told) results, but is
easier than "chasing the rabbit around the fence" or whatever the
teaching device is for the "weaver's knot": At the end of the new
thread, tie a slip knot (you know, the kind you can pull on either end
and the knot pulls right...
Q: I live in Boston and have been designing and creating beaded jewelry as
a hobby, so far. Many of the people who have seen my work have asked me
to make items for them, and now a clothing boutique owner who commented
on the jewelry I was wearing has said she'd be interested in selling
some of my jewelry designs in her store. I would be doing this to
supplement, rather than replace, my "day job" (you know, the one that
pays the rent and the cost of all the gorgeous beads!), but I would like
to...
Q: I recently used a dental floss type thread for a bead bracelet and it
stretched when it got wet and eventually broke! Now, to put my bracelet back
together again, what thread should I use to insure that it will be sturdy and
not fall apart again?A: That kind of depends on how you made the bracelet in
the first place. Is it woven seed beads? I usually use
doubled nymo, but I have heard good things about both
Silamide and Synbond. If you made the bracelet of a
strung strand of larger beads, I recommend one of...
Q: I am looking into starting a store which sells beads. I need some sites for
places to buy beads in bulk - wholesale.A: We would be happy to send you our wholesale catalog which covers plastic beads,
glass, bone, wood, ceramic beads, jewelry findings, beading supplies, tools
etc. Just let me know an address, where to send, and I will get one right to you.
Do you supply seed beads as well? If so, please send me a copy of your
catalog as well.
'Sandra Gayton'
PO Box 1404
Belcourt ND 58316
There are...
Q: Here is a message from a french beader:
Do you know where I could find instructions or classes for crocheting silver
(or gold) wire? I'd like very much to learn this technique.A: A great resource is the book: "Textile Techniques in Metal" by 'Arlene
Fisch'.
The 'Lapidary Journal' has had a number of patterns & techniques for
this.
In addition to 'Arline Fisch's' book (did you know 'Arline' is a "Living National
Treasure" in her home state of California?),
you could also seek out the somewhat more modest, but very helpful book,
"Copper Wire Lace" by 'Anne Dyer',...
Q: I'm trying to re-work a necklace for someone - wooden beads (including
these HUGE carved elephants!) strung on a leather cord. I can't
figure out how to attach a clasp.
Originally, it had these two wrap-around kind of crimps covering the
knots in the cord. I haven't been able to find anything like them,
though. I've seen coils on the ends of leather pieces, but what keeps
the leather from slipping out? I can't seem to make a knot tight enough
to hold on its own, and I keep ending up with a gap in...
Q: I am planning a necklace that will require a lot of pearls. I'd like them to be
about 7-8mm. Not being rich, I'll have to go with fresh-water or czech glass.
Have any or you ever seen czech glass pearls? The ads say that they look great,
but I've never seen one for real. If you can help me, I sure would appreciate
it. Also, I'd like to know where to get the little tiny cubes wholesale if
anyone knows.A: I can't help you with your search for these beads, but I am very interested in
hearing more about...
Q: I was looking at the 'Fire Mountain' catalog yesterday, and saw the "DYNA-MITES".
Is this just a fancy name for regular, high quality seed beads or are they
really a notch below 'Delicas' and a notch above a good quality Japanese or Czech
seed beads? Something 'FM' concocted or a true brand name?A: I use the 'Dynamites' quite a bit. I would class them as simply good
quality Japanese seed beads. Some of the colors are highly regular, some not
as good - (I've found the simple opaque ones aren't as good as, say, the silver-
lined,...