1. **Beads, Pendants, and Charms:** Explore the collection and choose the beads and charms that resonate with your style. From vibrant gemstone beads to delicate metal charms, you'll find a diverse selection to suit your taste.
2. **Earwires:** The "Just Add an Earwire" collection simplifies the earring-making process by bundling the items you'll need into a single click purchase. You'll need earwires to complete your creations, and perfectly matching earwires are included in the bundle.
With our simplified process, that's really it! We've eliminated the need for jump rings and tools, as you'll see below.
Crafting Your Earrings: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Select Your Favorite Just Add a Bead Bundle: Visit our Just Add an Earwire collection where the key design elements are already put together with a matching earwire and sold as a bundle. It's a one click check out and you'll have your project items in no time!
2. Assemble the Design: Once you receive your package in the mail open it up. Pick up the earwire and use a fingernail to pull open slightly the ring part of the earwire and attach your element. Then just close it securely. It's that easy! No jump rings, thread, or tools required.
5. Repeat and Experiment: Once you've crafted your first DIY earring, repeat the process to create a matching pair. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of beads, charms, and colors to achieve a variety of looks.
Embrace Your Creativity: Your Handcrafted Earrings
With the "Just Add an Earwire" collection, Auntie's Beads has streamlined the art of earring-making, allowing you to explore your creative instincts with ease. Whether you're a seasoned jewelry enthusiast or a beginner taking your first steps into the world of jewelry-making, these DIY earrings offer a tangible way to express yourself and adorn yourself with handmade beauty.
As you gaze upon your finished earrings, take pride in the fact that you've transformed simple components into wearable works of art. Your handcrafted earrings tell a story unique to you, showcasing your individuality and creative flair. So, dive into the realm of DIY earrings and let your imagination run wild – the possibilities are as limitless as your creativity!
Crafting enthusiasts are always on the lookout for new and exciting materials to incorporate into their projects. One such popular choice is Miyuki seed beads. These tiny, cylindrical beads are renowned for their uniform shape, vibrant colors, and versatility. Whether you're a novice or an experienced crafter, Miyuki seed beads offer endless possibilities for creating stunning jewelry, accessories, and intricate beadwork. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of using Miyuki seed beads and provide tips to help you unlock your creativity.
Miyuki seed beads are precision-cut glass beads that come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and finishes. The most common size is 11/0 (11/0 means there are approximately 11 beads per inch), but they are also available in other sizes, such as 15/0 and 8/0. Miyuki beads are renowned for their consistency in size, shape, and color, making them a favorite among bead weavers and jewelry designers.
To start working with Miyuki seed beads, gather the following tools and materials:
a. Thread Preparation: Cut a comfortable length of beading thread (usually around 1.5 to 2 meters) and condition it with thread conditioner or beeswax to prevent fraying. Thread a beading needle onto one end of the thread, leaving a tail of a few inches.
b. Adding Beads: Place your desired Miyuki seed beads onto your beading mat or tray. Pick up a bead with the needle, slide it down the thread, and snug it close to the previous bead. Continue this process, creating a beaded row or pattern.
c. Stitch Techniques: The most common stitch used with Miyuki seed beads is the peyote stitch. This versatile stitch allows you to create flat, tubular, or three-dimensional beadwork. Other stitches like brick stitch, herringbone stitch, and right angle weave can also be used depending on your project.
d. Finishing: To finish your beadwork, weave the thread back through several beads, tie secure knots, and trim the excess thread. Add clasps, jump rings, or findings if you're creating jewelry.
Choose the right needle and thread size to match your bead size. The needle should pass smoothly through the bead holes without causing damage.
Use a beading mat or tray to prevent beads from rolling away and to keep your workspace organized.
Experiment with different bead combinations, colors, and patterns to create unique designs.
Practice tension control to ensure your beadwork stays flat and even. Avoid pulling the thread too tightly or leaving it too loose.
Consider using graph paper or a beading board to plan your design and visualize the pattern before starting.
Explore the vast range of Miyuki bead finishes, such as metallic, matte, transparent, and iridescent, to add depth and texture to your creations.
Join online beadwork communities or forums to connect with fellow beaders, share ideas, and gain inspiration.
Conclusion:
Miyuki seed beads offer endless possibilities for creating exquisite jewelry, accessories, and intricate beadwork with their uniform size and beautiful colors.
]]>In the world of jewelry-making and crafting, Czech glass beads have long held a special place. Renowned for their exceptional quality, intricate designs, and vibrant colors, these beads have captured the hearts of artisans and collectors around the globe. Let's embark on a journey through the rich history, meticulous craftsmanship, and enduring charm of Czech glass beads.
The Legacy of Czech Glass Beads
The story of Czech glass beads dates back centuries, rooted in the Bohemian region of what is now the Czech Republic. The area's abundant natural resources, including silica-rich sand and vast forests for fuel, laid the foundation for the development of a flourishing glass industry. Skilled glassmakers honed their craft, perfecting techniques that would set Czech glass beads apart from the rest.
Exquisite Craftsmanship
Czech glass beads are celebrated for their unparalleled craftsmanship. Skilled artisans meticulously shape molten glass into intricate designs, utilizing a range of traditional and modern techniques. The beads are hand-pressed or molded, resulting in consistent shapes and sizes. The use of high-quality glass ensures durability and a smooth, polished finish. Additionally, Czech glass beads often feature unique surface treatments, such as coatings, finishes, or specialized coatings, adding further dimension and brilliance to the final product.
Unmatched Variety
One of the most captivating aspects of Czech glass beads is the incredible diversity they offer. From small seed beads to larger focal beads, the range of sizes accommodates various crafting projects. Moreover, the colors and finishes available are virtually limitless. Whether you seek classic shades, vibrant hues, or lustrous coatings, Czech glass beads provide an extensive palette to ignite your creativity.
Beyond their vivid colors, Czech glass beads offer a wide array of captivating shapes. From timeless rounds and versatile bicones to intricately faceted fire-polished beads and delicate pressed flowers, there is a shape to suit every design aesthetic. The sheer versatility of these beads has made them a staple in jewelry making, embroidery, bead weaving, and other intricate crafts.
Enduring Popularity
Czech glass beads have retained their popularity throughout the years, transcending trends and styles. The beads possess a timeless appeal that effortlessly blends with both contemporary and vintage designs. The ability to mix and match different shapes, sizes, and finishes allows artisans to create truly unique and personalized pieces. Whether you're crafting delicate earrings, statement necklaces, or intricate beadwork, Czech glass beads add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any project.
Sustaining Tradition
Despite modern advancements in technology and manufacturing processes, Czech glass beads continue to be crafted using traditional methods. This commitment to preserving age-old techniques not only upholds the integrity and authenticity of the beads but also supports the local artisans and sustains a vibrant craft industry. By choosing Czech glass beads, artisans and customers alike contribute to the preservation of this remarkable tradition.
Conclusion
Czech glass beads are more than mere crafting materials; they are a testament to the centuries-old artistry and craftsmanship that the Czech Republic is renowned for. From their humble beginnings in Bohemia to their global popularity today, these beads continue to captivate and inspire jewelry makers, artists, and enthusiasts worldwide. The exquisite craftsmanship, vast variety, and timeless appeal of Czech glass beads ensure their enduring presence in the world of creative expression for years to come. So, embrace the beauty of these mesmerizing beads and let your imagination soar with each delicate, colorful piece you create.
Almost 30 years ago, my husband bought a gift for me that would plant the seed that would change my life. This "Mommy Bracelet" started my love of beading and creating jewelry. I wanted to find a way to recreate a bracelet like this, but in sterling silver. I got my resale license, did some digging and discovered the World Trade Center in Dallas.
And I never looked back.
I found suppliers, and taught myself how to bead. The Mommy bracelet was just the beginning. I designed bracelets, necklaces and earrings. I started with home parties, but I had ground rules. The host had to have at least 10 people in attendance. If she did, I was certain to make a profit. In return, I gave the host a credit of 15% of her sales. So, if i sold $1000, she got $150 in free jewelry. It was a win-win!
I soon progressed to setting up in office buildings, in teacher's lounges at school, anyone who would have me. I could have worked every day!
Then, in 2000, my husband built our website, and off we went!
We are so proud to be part of this industry and blessed to have our Auntie's Beaders!
]]>Versatile, beautiful, colorful, and perhaps best of all, relatively cheap, it's no wonder Czech Glass Beads seem to be exploding in the beading world lately.
"Czech" out what's new and popular! (I'm sorry, I promise I won't do that again...)
The newest members of our Czech glass beads collection, these colorful rounds are sure to make a fine feature in your next beaded design. Made directly in the Czech Republic, they're uniform in size, and they're downright beautiful. These babies are an easy win.
Fire Polish beads are typically round, faceted beads that are hand-made in the Czech Republic. These versatile beads are a go-to for most beaders so make sure you're always stocked up!
Czech Glass Pearls are a quality simulated pearl made right in the Czech Republic. These beauties feature shapes that are uniform and coatings that have minimal flaking so you get a superior product versus much of what is on the market today.
And that's just a sampling of what's going on with Czech beads! Don't forget Honeycombs, Daggers, Bow Tie Beads, and Pressed Glass.
]]>Susie Henderson
Here are some great ideas for beading projects you can get done all in one rainy day afternoon.
]]>Here are some great ideas for beading projects you can get done all in one rainy day afternoon.
The red howlite on antique silver are what make this unique pair of earrings stand out. In fact, you can use any color of 4mm bead to get this same effect, lending this design a high level of reuseability. While this is an intermediate design due to the wire wrapping of the 4mm beads, these earrings only take about 20 minutes to make from start to finish.
The name says it all. This clever design takes the versatility of Chevron Duo beads and turns the whole concept on its head. The simplicity of directing the beads to point in the same direction creates a flow of color reminiscent of a one-way street of beautiful beads. Another great design to test your color creativity, as you are challenged to pick your own favorite shades of Chevrons and two different sizes of Miyuki seed beads!
I mean, come on. Who doesn't love gold, right?
"Once you start working with either of these two findings, you will come up with tons of different ways to use them," says Auntie's Beads owner and designer of this project Susie Henderson. "I immediately thought, 'earrings'. Fun, affordable and, oh, so cute!"
The lacy look of the antique gold pendant contrasts interestingly with the coils of the gold plated findings. Best of all, you can create your own pair of these "WOW" earrings in just ten minutes! Maybe you should make two?
Of course, all of the project design instructions come in free, PDF form with any purchase.
So, what are some of your favorite rainy day beaded jewelry designs? Show them off in the comments below!
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We think these five varied yet versatile beading products will give you the extra inspiration you need to get really excited to bead.
1. Cymbals - Specialty findings designed specifically for certain types of beads
First up on our list are Cymbals, specialty components that fit perfectly with specific types of popular beads just like seed beads and the ever-popular SuperDuo. These unique, imaginative, and groundbreaking metal components were designed with the most desirable beads in mind. They integrate seamlessly with the SuperDuo®, GemDuo®, Miyuki Delica, 11/0 and 8/0 round seed beads, Tila, Half Tila, Silky Bead®, and Honeycomb Bead®.
Cymbals - officially called Cymbal™ Metal Fashion Elements™ - can have one of four different functions. They can be used as bead endings so that they finish off one end of say, a bracelet, with a clean, finished look. You could use them as side beads so that they are shaped on the outside but have a flat side in order to serve the function of building out your patterns. There are also bead substitutes, which take the shape of a particular bead you are using, like, a honeycomb. This is helpful for fleshing out your patterns with consistent shapes and for changing up the colors as Cymbals are frequently silver, gold, rose, or brass. And finally, Cymbals function as connectors by fastening the end of a piece together seamlessly.
They're especially great for experienced bead weavers because there are so many ways to customize with the way that you choose to use them. But they're also fun and versatile, so they're perfect for beginners and novices, as well!
2. Delicas - Perennial favorites for precision bead weaving
by Lorena Romo
If you’re looking for a fun hobby that will save you money, relieve stress, and help you discover and express your own unique style, jewelry making is a fabulous choice. Even if the idea of making your own jewelry is new to you, it’s easy to do with the right tools and accessories. From beautiful handmade necklaces and earrings to bracelets, rings, anklets, and more, creating your own DIY jewelry is an extremely fulfilling hobby. Read on to learn a few tips for jewelry making so that you can go from a casual, leisure hobbyist to a seasoned pro in no time.
The benefits of DIY jewelry
Although learning to make beautiful, trendy jewelry takes some skill and patience, there are plenty of wonderful benefits to this amazing hobby that make the learning curve well worth navigating.
Fun and recreational. Making jewelry at home is a fun way to spend your free time. You’ll enjoy learning new skills and discovering new techniques to help you create gorgeous pieces of jewelry that you can wear, sell, or give as gifts to family and friends.
Keeps you focused and relaxed. When you’re in the jewelry-making zone, or “flow,” as that super-engaged state of mind is officially called, you won’t have time to worry about the stresses of everyday life. This hobby is a fantastic way to help you relieve stress and feel more relaxed, and it lets you take breaks from “real life” and worrying about the things that are keeping you awake at night.
Find your unique style. Much like drawing or painting, designing and creating your own custom jewelry is a great way to help you discover your own personal style. Whether it’s funky and bold, glamorous, or classic, this hobby is a creative way to help you discover something new about yourself and what makes you tick.
You’ll save money. By making custom jewelry at home, you’ll save untold amounts of money on buying new accessories. Buying jewelry parts and tools is much less expensive than purchasing brand-new jewelry from a retailer. You won’t have to pay the markup that many jewelry sellers charge, and you can find many jewelry-making supplies in bulk for an even bigger discount.
Personalized gifts. There’s nothing quite as special as a handmade gift made by someone you love. Design your own personalized jewelry that you can give to friends and family members for birthdays, holidays, and other celebrations. It’s a wonderful gift that the recipients will treasure for years to come as they show off their custom jewelry made just for them, by you.
Easy to do anywhere. Making jewelry doesn’t require a lot of space, which means you enjoy taking part in this hobby virtually anywhere. All you need is a small area to work and a portable storage solution to store and organize your jewelry-making goods.
Take pride in your work. When you wear a piece of jewelry that you made yourself, you’ll be able to proudly announce that it’s something you created on your own. Wearing something that you made is a great way to show off your skills and to show pride in your hard work, and there’s nothing like a complete stranger coming up to you and asking where on earth you got that spectacular necklace.
What you need to get started
Now that you know about all of the amazing benefits of making your own jewelry, here’s what you’ll need to get started on your newfound hobby.
The right workspace. Decide where you want to set up your jewelry-making station. You’ll need a quiet place with ample light and a sturdy work surface, such as a desk or table. Ideally, you should have a separate part of the home where you can work on your craft so that you don’t need to tidy up and put everything away every single time you call it a day. If you don’t have a separate room, just find a comfortable corner or nook where you can set up a table, chair, and light. Make sure you choose a supportive chair so you can work as long as you want comfortably.
Gather your essentials. To make your own jewelry, you’ll need some basic materials and tools. Start with some foundational items like string, wire, beads, and stones to create your custom jewelry. You’ll also need a wire cutter, a good pair of scissors, pliers, and a crimping tool. If you’re making rings, you’ll need a mandrel. Depending on the kind of jewelry you’re making, you may also need a soldering iron. Of course, you’ll need jewelry findings, which are the raw pieces, like clasps, jump-rings, earrings, pins for brooches, ring bases, and other foundational items that you’ll make the jewelry from. Once you have your tools and materials, keep them organized by placing everything in separate bins or boxes with a label. It’s much easier and a lot more fun if you can easily grab what you need within reach.
Get inspired. If you need some ideas and inspiration, turn to jewelry bloggers, Pinterest, or watch a few tutorial videos to help you learn the ropes. A virtual jewelry-making class is a great way to start out, or you can turn to some fellow jewelry-making friends for ideas and advice.
Types of jewelry you can create
Here are some examples of the types of jewelry you can make, and what you’ll need for each:
Necklaces. Most DIY necklaces are made using string, wire, or chain. Add your own touch by creating a beaded necklace or make a custom charm to hang from the end. Jewelry findings Wire cutters, clasps, crimping tools, and pliers are also recommended.
Earrings. Gather some hooks, clips, and studs to make different types of earrings. Embellish your DIY earrings with beads, stones, or make a few simple pairs with metal or wire to start out.
Bracelets. You can learn how to make friendship bracelets with colorful string for a fun and easy jewelry project. For fancier jewelry, try a beaded bracelet or a wire bracelet accented with a few cute charms.
Rings. Making DIY rings can range from easy to complex, depending on the materials you choose. Start with a simple wire ring embellished with a stone, and you can eventually work your way up to metalsmithing after you feel confident in your jewelry-making skills.
Other jewelry. You’re not just limited to designing rings, earrings, or necklaces. Try your hand at other custom pieces, like a hand-stamped metal charm or a jewelry item made entirely of found objects. Custom embellished hair clips are another fun alternative.
How to keep everything organized
You’ll enjoy making custom jewelry much more if your work space and growing collection of pieces are neat and tidy. Here are some ways you can keep all of your materials and tools organized for easy access.
By type. Arrange your jewelry components and tools by type—place all of your necklace, earring, ring, and bracelet-making items in separate containers so you know where everything is to make specific pieces.
By color. If you’re making jewelry with lots of beads or colorful components, organize everything by color so you can make the perfect jewelry based on color scheme and tone. Get a plastic bead container with lots of different compartments to store your beads and other items by color.
By stones. Separate your jewelry materials by stone type. For example, keep rhinestones, beads, and natural stones separated so you can easily access your material of choice.
By occasion. Maybe you like to design both fashion jewelry and formal jewelry, but it depends on the occasion. You can keep casual-style jewelry accessories, like string, inexpensive wire, and plastic or glass beads in one area, and more formal or high-end components, like silver and gold wire and precious gems in another so they don’t get mixed up.
Jewelry organizing solutions
Having an organized space will make designing your custom jewelry much easier. Here are some ways to organize your jewelry-making tools, accessories, and completed pieces.
Bins. Place everything in clear plastic bins with a lid to keep everything secure. Separate the items inside of the bins by type and label each with the contents so you can easily grab what you need without having to rifle through drawers and loose containers.
Stands. A beautiful jewelry stand is a great way to display your finished pieces. Use the stand for photographing jewelry you plan to sell, or simply enjoy them in your bedroom for a beautiful display.
Drawers. If you prefer to keep your accessories and tools in drawers, add a handy drawer organizer. These compartments will keep everything nicely separated so that small items don’t get lost in the shuffle.
Special jewelry boxes. Organize your finished jewelry in beautiful boxes made for specific types of jewelry. You’ll find a range of jewelry organizers dedicated to keeping specific types of jewelry in place or those that have separate compartments to help you keep different styles of jewelry together in one location.
How to Keep Your Jewelry Clean
Once you make your jewelry, it’s important to keep it clean and shiny so it’s beautiful for years to come.
Special cleaners. Look for jewelry cleaners made for specific materials, like silver or certain types of stone. These special cleaners are made to be gentle on certain surfaces while cleaning and protecting your hard work.
Homemade cleaners. You can make your own DIY jewelry cleaner with a few simple ingredients. Try a mixture of dish soap and warm water to keep silver sparkling clean. Mix the dish soap with sparkling water to get gemstones and semi-precious stones bright and clean. A paste made of baking soda and water does an excellent job of gently removing excess tarnish.
Store your jewelry properly. To protect your jewelry, keep it stored in a cool, dry place away from excess humidity. Separate your jewelry by metal type, and always make sure that pieces aren’t touching each other. Fine jewelry should be kept out of direct sunlight, but fashion jewelry can be hung from hooks on a wall or stored in special compartmentalized boxes.
Involve Your Family
Learning how to make your own jewelry is fun, but it’s even more exciting when the whole family gets involved.
Activities with the kids. Arrange a fun jewelry-making session with the kids, and show them how to make their own friendship bracelets, clay bead necklaces, and more. Gather some simple materials together, and let the kids have a ball as they learn how to make jewelry they can show off to their friends.
Activities with friends or as a couple. Schedule a couple’s night where you and your partner can make a matching set of jewelry. This is also a fun activity you can do together with some friends. Have a double-date night of creative jewelry making, complete with some adult beverages and great tunes.
You don’t have to be a master jeweler to enjoy the process of making your own beautiful, stylish jewelry. With the right tools, a good comfortable workspace, and some fun accents like colorful beads and stones, you’ll be able to make your very own custom jewelry in no time. This fun hobby is a great way to relax and relieve stress while creating something truly unique, so you can show off your personal style—and maybe even find a new career.
Originally posted in Porch.com
]]>Facebook groups have also become a terrific way to learn and get more involved in the things you love to do. You probably already participate in many of them. At Auntie's Beads, we actually started a little group way back in 2011 which, for Internet years, was practically the Ice Age. You may even have heard of it or participated at one point in time. Our Facebook Group is called Bead Chat and it's one of our favorite places to talk about beads, share designs and ask for help from the beading community!
With over 11,000 members, all of whom are part of the beading community in one way or another, Bead Chat has grown into a pleasant little community all its own over the years. With incredibly supportive and knowledgable beaders, it's a place we're extremely proud to have cultivated for beaders of all levels of the craft.
Even if you're already familiar with Bead Chat as a Facebook group, you may not realize that we now support the new Mentorship program. Whether you'd like to offer your skills and beading acumen up to other beaders as a mentor or you're searching for someone like-minded who can help you up your bead game, the Bead Chat Facebook Mentor program is a great way to become further immersed into the beading and handmade jewelry craft all while meeting new friends who share your interests. Once you get set up with a mentor or mentee, Facebook helps you along by suggesting different ways to help one another out and tracking your goals, helping you both succeed!
There are lots of great ways to engage in the Bead Chat Facebook group. Even if you simply want to share pictures of your latest jewelry designs and get inspiration from seeing the beading projects of others, Bead Chat is a really great place for beaders to meet and participate in their favorite hobby together. Come join us in our Facebook Bead Chat Group and let's get beading...together!
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These counts are, of course, approximate, but they should be pretty darn close!
]]>Two-hole beads have been around for a while and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Their unique structure and versatility make them especially ideal for multiple forms of beadwork. Add to this the beautiful array of colors and lovely textures and you can totally understand how the enthusiasm surrounding two-hole beads is practically a frenzy. Beading with two-hole beads is certainly no fleeting trend.
As their name suggests, two-hole beads feature a pair of holes as opposed to more conventional one-hole beads. Not only does this lend the bead a more substantial look and feel, but it also means that beaders can opt to make their second pass through the opposing hole rather than passing back through the same channel twice. And that's just one example having to do with bead stitching. Two-hole beads can be incorporated into your designs using many of your favorite beading techniques including right-angle weave, wire-wrapping, peyote stitch, brick stitch, herringbone stitch and more.
As you might imagine, there are also many different types of two-hole beads. Twin beads are popular for their compatibility with a more free-form style of beading and their typically more affordable price point. Matubo's line of duo beads - from Superduos & Miniduos to Gemduos & Paisleyduos - earned their following by delivering a more precise, balanced finished product. While it will come down to your preferred style of beadwork, duo beads do make a compelling argument for themselves. We know that Matubo beads are precisely cut. This comes from the fact that they are pressed, rather than being formed by a tumbling process. Who wants to buy a package of beads only to have to cull through them to find the ones that will work well enough? You'll end up having to toss the rest into that bargain bead bowl you've always promised you'll use to make something stunning out of one of these days (you know you have one).
The Czech glass pressing technology (for which Matubo is very well-known - their family, the Maturas, is heir to the inventor of automatic glass beads pressing) is what gives Matubo beads that "perfect lustre" they take such pride in. They are formed using colored glass and then given a coating, leading to a much wider palette of colors to choose from than twin beads. It all means you're getting quality beads that are perfectly uniform, substantial and durable. Both of these types of two-hole beads are elongated Czech glass beads. Superduos measure 2.5mm wide by 5mm long, so they're much more substantial than your typical seed bead. Despite that, these friendly beads love to work together and with their seed bead cousins. Matubo duo beads, in particular, are guaranteed to have size and shape consistency perfect for multi-row beaded necklaces and bracelets. Three-dimensional designs like beaded beads are an ideal fit as well.
However you choose to do your bead stitching, weaving or wrapping, two-hole beads have a lot to offer. These multi-tasking beads offer quality, durability, teamwork, and they won't ask for time off. You should hire them for your next beading project today.
]]>We know that it can be difficult to make that final decision on whether or not to complete the purchase on some of the beads you have your eye on, especially if you feel like you don't have all of the product details you need available to you. So, to make things just a little bit easier, we've created this useful chart that displays the approximate (as close as we can get it!) number of beads you get on each size of 16 inch gemstone bead strand we currently carry.
]]>We know that it can be difficult to make that final decision on whether or not to complete the purchase on some of the beads you have your eye on, especially if you feel like you don't have all of the product details you need available to you. So, to make things just a little bit easier, we've created this useful chart that displays the approximate (as close as we can get it!) number of beads you get on each size of 16 inch gemstone bead strand we currently carry.
Hopefully this will make future bead choices that much simpler!
Just keep in mind, not all bead strands are created equal. To that end, these numbers are an approximation of the amount of beads you can expect to receive on a given strand and may vary just a little. The strands are nearly always 1mm in diameter unless they're designated as large hole (which is usually about 2mm).
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One of the most common questions we get here at Auntie's Beads Direct is just how many beads am I getting in a seed beads package? Well, now that's super easy to find out because we've created this colorfully helpful bar graph!
For the three major seed beads brands, Miyuki, Matubo and Toho, you can see the number of beads in each gram, color-coded by their size. Because of the nature of the beads, the numbers are approximate, but you should find that, even if they aren't perfectly exact, they are very close.
Note that Matubo is the only line that comes in a size 7/0 and they do not come in sizes 11/0 or 15/0.
]]>If you've been shopping with Auntie's Beads Direct recently, you may have noticed some colorful, new buttons and shapes dotted throughout your screen. Maybe you even had the courage to tentatively hover your mouse or finger over the cute little heart you saw and actually click or tap on it. If you did (you hearty adventurer, you!), you deftly discovered our brand new Shopper Assistant! Fortune favors the bold!
If, on the other hand, you haven't noticed it yet or were frightened off by apprehensive fears of some nefarious Interweb goblin snatching up your browsing history, or worse, slapping your screen with an eerie pop-up ad for a product you had just spoken with a friend about the previous night ("Alexa, stop listening in on my conversations!), worry not! You, too, can bravely and safely open our newest helpful web toy and enjoy all of its myriad features. Just click that beautiful little heart at the bottom right of your screen and let the magic begin!
Pro Tip #1 for using Shopping Assistant is very important. Make sure you are logged into your Auntie's Beads Direct account before opening the user interface! Otherwise, it's just going to be a pitiful, empty shell of a thing that won't be able to help you at all. It operates based on your shopping behavior, so if it doesn't know who is logged in, it gets pretty lost.
Now, once you've logged in, don't get too worried if you still don't see anything in the Shopping Assistant hub. That just means you haven't been telling it about all the beads you're interested in yet! The way it works is it collects all of the products that you like and stores them for you in one convenient place. Then, it gives you all the information and updates you could ever want about those items. Think of it as a Super Wish List. You add beads to your list by clicking the heart on all of the ones you fancy. Shopping Assistant populates your Wish List and allows you to shop directly off your list of favorites, view items that have had a price drop, get notified as soon as an item you want is back in stock, browse trending products and a lot more. You can even view your order history, read the newest reviews and share all the beads you're excited about with your friends.
Which brings us to Pro Tip #2. The more you shop, the smarter Shopping Assistant gets. The smarter it gets, the more it's going to improve your shopping experience at Auntie's Beads Direct! Don't be afraid to tell it what you like. We're not going to share any of that information and neither is our new friend Shopping Assistant. He's just here to help. And no need to worry about any long-term commitments, either. Liking something by clicking on the heart icon only means you might want to come back and look at it again, not take it home with you on the first click. And if you do get to the point where you feel that no amount of counseling is going to rescue the relationship, you can always break-up, turning off poor Shopping Assistant entirely. You don't even have to have one of those awkward face-to-face splits, either. It's just one click from the convenient Settings tab and he'll never even know why you left.
We're hoping, on the other hand, that you get along great with Shopping Assistant because we really think he's the whole package. Once you've built up some significant shopping history and added a bunch of beads to your Wish List, it really brings the online shopping experience to a higher level. Just click the Filter tab while you're viewing from the Products home in Shopping Assistant to see all of the myriad options!
With all the beads and jewelry components on offer at Auntie's Beads Direct, it can be frustrating to try to remember where you saw that fantastic connector or the perfect gemstone for your next project design. Now, you can make a Wish List of items, view your browsing history, see reviews and trending products, get notifications for currently unavailable products, view items you're interested in that are about to run out of stock so you can swoop them up before they're gone, see beads that have gone down in price since you last looked and more all in one awesome little user interface with Shopping Assistant.
Now that you've had your crash course, we'll offer you Pro Tip #3. Get clicking! Use Shopping Assistant early and often to get the most out of it. You'll be a master in no time, teaching Shopping Assistant 101 to all your friends!
]]>Beading thread is an essential component of just about any beading project. Most beaders have many different kinds. You may even know one of those beaders who have an old toolbox full of partially used spools of every kind of wire and thread imaginable. (Or maybe that's you!) But hey, they all serve their very own, very important purpose.
That doesn't take away from the fact that having a plethora of varying species of wire, thread and cord in existence can be more than a little confusing. From polyethylene Fireline and smooth Wildfire threads to leather and elastic cording, there are so many to choose from. And that's without even mentioning all that beading wire out there!
If you're not already a knowledgeable beader with hands-on experience with all of the various types of beading thread, you would certainly be excused for feeling a bit of spinning head trying to figure out which stringing material is the most appropriate for your particular design. So, in this article, instead of creating an entire online beading course, let's focus on just one major type of beading thread and cord: C-Lon. Besides, I really don't feel like writing up an entire syllabus for the semester.
A beading thread made of nylon, C-Lon is a slightly flat monocord which can be used in many different jewelry-making techniques from simple bead stringing to weaving, knotting, netting, crocheting, warping, peyote stitching and more. It is high-quality, durable and, as you can already tell, extremely versatile. Bonus: it's also inexpensive, which has made it a favorite for crafters of all types.
If you're used to working with Nymo beading thread, you'll find that C-Lon thread is similar while being a bit stronger. It comes in two sizes, AA and D, the smaller of which (AA) is great for working with seed beads, even the teeny-tiny 15/0 or Delica beads. Size D is what you'll want for your bead weaving projects. Its size and durability make it the ideal choice for stitching of every kind.
C-Lon cording, on the other hand, is heavier and has been twisted which lends it extra strength and durability. There are more sizes to select from versus the thread, with four, and many more color options that really pop because of its soft luster. While it was originally intended for sewing, these qualities also make C-lon cording a wonderful option for macrame, stringing, kumihimo and more.
There is a heavy-weight C-Lon cord option for your larger bead hole sizes as well as fine weight and micro cording for those smaller bead holes. Best of all might just be the CLC cord which is not too slim, not too thick, but just right as one young fairy tale character could have observed (had she been a beader instead of a little thief). This more "original" size is perfect for using with LMA Magatama beads and 8/0 seed beads in stringing, kumihimo and macrame because of its nature as a versatile beading component.
C-Lon certainly has a lot of strengths, as it were. It is durable and sturdy, so it's not going to break on you in the middle of a project. It is not rigid, nor will it stretch unnecessarily. It is lightweight, which weavers will love. On top of all that, C-Lon thread and cord come in a vast array of different colors that really make a jewelry piece pop.
Whatever you end up choosing, you're sure to find a comprehensive selection of C-Lon products at Auntie's Beads Direct, all at the best prices available on the web. Try out the high-quality C-Lon threads and cords for yourself on your next jewelry design and be sure to share your beautiful creations with us on social!
]]>Every beader has their favorite tool. They serve purposes from the mundane (Standard Flat Nose Pliers are kind of dull, ba-dum-bum!) to the down-right bizarre (Multipliars combos - are we beading or going camping?). Even if you're sure you'll hardly ever use it, sometimes there is a very specific tool that you just have to have for your project. It might just be that it's a trusty set of beading pliers.
There are precisely a gazillion different kinds of pliers so you'd be forgiven for not being familiar with all of them. But a favorite?
We couldn't possibly narrow it down to just one beloved set of pliers. So here you have our selection of the four that every beader absolutely must have a shiny pair of on hand at all times.
No surprise here. Chain nose pliers are an undeniable classic. Flat on the inside, round on the outside, these versatile little beauties grip and manipulate wire like nobody's business. That tapered nose isn't just for looks. You'll need it to rescue needles, wire and beads when they end up getting themselves stuck in those hard-to-reach places. Needle stuck behind too much thread? Chain nose pliers to the rescue!
Of course, these tools are bound to be used more often than most of the others so you'll want them to feel cozy in your hands. Fortunately, many chain nose pliers come with ergonomic grips for comfort, which is certainly recommended.
These little guys pretty much do just one thing but they do it really, really well. Round nose pliers, with their characteristic tapered jaws, make loops. You could probably use them for holding things in place or poking someone (please don't do that) but mostly you're just going to want to make loops with them.
But that doesn't make them less valuable because loops are incredibly important! With round nose pliers, you will end up with well-shaped, consistent loops. Where you choose to bend the wire on the tapered jaw determines the size of the loop you'll make. Nifty!
Sure, you could just squeeze that crimp bead closed between your fingers but after a while, that's gonna start to smart. Besides, there is an art to crimping. Your jewelry designs are going to look much more professional if you use a nice pair of crimp pliers.
With a jaw that is at least somewhat reminicent of a grinning jack-o-lantern's, these pliers were built to both collapse the crimp and to shape it. No sloppy bead work here, folks. Just smooth, round crimp beads in only two steps.
If you're into wire projects, boy have we got the tool for you. Designed for use specifically with memory wire, finishing pliers are used to create loops that complete your project. Best of all, this pretty pair comes with two different sized rounding ends, 4mm and 2mm.
Since they're made to work with memory wire which can be quite stubborn when bending, memory wire finishing pliers are able to get a nice grip on the wire in order to manipulate it into shape. These nice, heavy duty pliers are a perfect addition to a beader's tool chest.
So there you have it! Four pliers no beader should ever be without. The collection of pliers at Auntie's Beads Direct is comprehensive so you're sure to find your top four as well!
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My love affair with beads and bling began in 1995 with a gift. The Mommy Bracelet was a new concept at that time and, as a proud mother, I was in love. After living on my arm for weeks, the wear and tear came calling. This piece of art that I wore so proudly, needed love and attention.
In 1995, the internet was still in its infancy. YouTube was a concept waiting to be birthed by a then 18 year old. Where to go to re-string this beauty? I went to the Dallas World Trade Market.
Walking into this massive structure was overwhelming. I timidly walked to the front desk hoping not to get kicked out. The person behind the desk held all the power to giving me access or telling me to take a hike. No, I told her, I do not have a business. No, again, I do not have a resale license. I just want to find someone to help me with this. I pulled out my bracelet to show her. One moment, she said. She went to the phone, spoke briefly and hung up. Handing me a badge, I was told I had a 1 day pass to go only to the 7th floor. She handed me the showroom number and I was in!
It was thrilling to ride up in the open elevator to the 7th floor, an incredible view of products you see every day at the mall. I got off the elevator and went directly to the showroom, just as I was told. Walking in, I was overwhelmed. The colors and shapes of beads, the finished pieces, the boxes and boxes of findings, I was in heaven. I met David, the owner, and showed him my piece. With the direction of this kind owner, I was able to learn the basics of restringing. After seeing my piece, he decided to offer the letter beads in sterling silver. I like to think that my bracelet had something to do with that.
After just a few weeks, I had my business name, my resale license and was creating sterling silver Mother's Bracelet's, the beginning of the journey for Auntie's Beads. My husband, of now 37 years, started our website in 2000. We began filling our orders out of our garage, moving into the sun room of our home just a few weeks later and then an old bank building in historic downtown Grapevine, Texas. These years have been filled with joy, excitement and lots of love. We have been so blessed to do what we love and share the love of this craft.
We now embark on our latest chapter, as our web site is relaunched as a wholesale to the public site, offering unbeatable bulk pricing discounts. As a part of our transition our daughter, Courtney (the third strand of my bracelet!), is taking over our order fulfillment and warehouse operations, while my husband Ron and I begin to ever so gradually move into semi-retirement!
Thanks for all the fun and we hope you like the new Auntie's Beads Direct better than ever.
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To get started, you need to know the different types of leather. The above picture shows a bracelet I made using oversized TierraCast links with 10mm flat leather woven through them. Flat leather can be handled in that manner. It can also be used more simply. You can embellish it with rivets and links and other items of your choice. The picture to the left demonstrates how great a TierraCast leather strap looks with a hook clasp and a few barrel beads. Using flat leather in this way allows you to create a simple, sleek piece that can be worn on its own or layered with other pieces.
A huge trend right now is working with leather cording to create beaded and woven designs with links and charms. You can do that with simple knotting techniques or by creating a leather wrap bracelet. Or you can create something like the TierraCast Dulce Vida bracelet project. This stylish project uses 2mm leather cord with large hole gemstone beads and a TierraCast button for closure. This project is one of those that you can crank out in about 10 minutes and offer your customers (or yourself) in a million different colorways.
You will find that once you have learned some basics about knotting and applying rivets, eyelets, etc. that making leather jewelry is extremely easy, fun, and affordable. I think you will also find that even once you know the basic techniques, there is always something fun to learn about this versatile material. I would love to hear about your favorite leather projects!
]]>Of course, you know we would never just throw product out there without giving you some projects for instruction and inspiration... The Dulce Vida bracelet embodies what the collection is all about: earthy gemstones paired with leather cording and a TierraCast button to make a bracelet that rocks on its own, but is also super cool when stacked with other pieces.
Want a pair of super sassy earrings? Want to make them with some homemade tassel dangles? Well, look no further. The Lotus Blossom earrings are a very versatile project you can create using the new lotus charms and pendants. Create these trendy earrings with either antique brass or antique silver charms and any color of thread your heart desires.
There are two similar projects I came across that I absolutely adore.
The first is the Viracocha Earrings. This simple yet stunning design incorporates Nib-Bits, MiniDuos, and seed beads in an open weave round design that could be worn as is or could be the base of a Rivoli embellishment. I could also see making several of these and turning them into a funky cuff-style bracelet. Any way you choose to recreate this pattern, it is sure to be amazing!
The other project I love is the Rani Bracelet. When you first see this design, you may think it is just an open weave bracelet, but the designer gives you the option to add embellished 8mm cabochons to the top of the bracelet and that just takes it to a whole new level of sophistication. Like the Viracocha earrings, this project only requires Nib-Bits, MiniDuos, and a few different seed beads. You could even match the colors so the bracelet coordinates with the earrings!
In addition to these 2 projects, I am also really digging how these cool new Czech glass beads were turned into design elements. If you have never given yourself the opportunity to make your own donut pendant, try the Groom Lake Pendant project. Using a combination of Matubo and Miyuki beads, you will be able to quickly create a very unique centerpiece for a beaded or chain necklace design. Similarly, adding your own beaded beads to your design projects will give you an edge over other jewelry designers. The Technical Beaded Bead project, for example, shows you exactly how to weave beads around a wood or acrylic core bead to create something else entirely. You can use these beaded beads in bracelet, necklace, and earring designs.
So... We wanna know... Have you created anything with these new Nib-Bit beads? If so, we would love to hear from you! Send us your pictures and/or tell us what you have been working on. Which Nib-Bit project is your favorite?
]]>I will start with the beads that are probably going to change my life, the GemDuos by Matubo. These Czech glass beads are diamond shaped 5mm by 8mm beads with 2 holes. Like the SuperDuos before them (which have also changed everything I ever thought I knew about beading), these beautiful beads work well with seed beads and other beads to create beautiful beaded beads and bezels. They also fit together to create unique shapes and patterns; I am already dreaming up a floral-shaped pattern using GemDuos to incorporate into my next jewelry design!
That brings us to the Nib-Bits, also from Matubo. Kinda funny name, but I assure you this bead is not playing around! Each one of these rounded triangular beads measures 5mm by 6mm and has two holes. As demonstrated in the Safari Bracelet Project, Nib-Bit beads actually work very well with other Matubo beads such as GemDuos and MiniDuos. They can be used to create unique shapes in woven bracelet designs, or you can use them to embellish beads and cabochons as well!
Speaking of embellishing... None of these new Matubo bead collections would be complete without the introduction of the Matubo Rivoli. One of my favorite projects I have seen yet utilizes the Nib-Bits with the Matubo rivoli to create what could be a unique pendant or a pair of stunning earrings. Just like the Swarovski Rivoli, the Matubo rivolis are pointed on the front and back and do not have drilled holes. They are multi-faceted and look like a million bucks when woven into a beaded bezel. The cool part about these rivolis is that the colors and finishes will align so well with other Matubo beads, it will make designing your next focal piece a breeze!
We hope you are enjoying what we have been introducing into our ever-growing product line. We have some more cool things coming and hope you continue to check back. In the meantime, feel free to share your designs with us so we can see what you are working on and what new beads you have incorporated into your repertoire.
About ten years ago, I had my first piece published in Beadwork magazine. It was a woven ring featuring Swarovski crystal twist beads and size 8/0 Miyuki seed beads.
Since then, I have had close to two dozen projects featured in various magazines - Beadwork is my favorite - but I had never had a project featured on the cover. UNTIL NOW!!!
The August/September 2017 issue of Beadwork magazine is on the stands now and...drum roll, please... it features my Tucson Vista necklace and instructions for creating a matching bracelet as well. There aren't words to describe how proud I am and how surreal it feels to see my work out there like this!
If you want to check out the piece, get a physical copy of the magazine here; if you don't want to wait for the magazine to arrive, get a downloadable copy right now.
All of the materials used were purchased right here at Auntie's Beads Direct and they are as follows:
I have already received feedback and pictures from people who have created their own necklaces and/or bracelets. I would love to see what kind of variations and color combinations you guys come up with, so feel free to comment and post a pic in your response.
Happy beading everyone!
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