When you first start beading...

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I'm going to learn how to bead/knit/sew. Money isn't a big deal unless I waste it on something I'll never use.

And the wonderful problem is this. Decided on learning how to bead first.. I walked into my local craft store, saw the prettiest beads and pieces ever, my eye twitched, and I walked out empty handed. All in the span of 15 seconds and I managed to scare all of the workers.

I really loved everything and wanted to go creative crazy. Thing is I lack any experience whatsoever! Happy

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My common sense is wise enough to know I need to buy the smaller stuff before I can really work with the bigger stuff. I'm just at a lost on how to start this whole thing. For anyone who has experience in beading can you tell me how you started off?

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7 replies since 17th November 2009 • Last reply 17th November 2009

Reply #1:

I think first of all you need to collect basic material and tools to work with:
wire cutters
small pliers
nylon string
silver and copper wire

then just give it a try!
I could make a how to to show you my favourite technique to do earrings ecc if u like, i'm not very good at explain this kind of things in english... Happy

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Reply #2:

I went to a jewellery making website and bought a starter kit, it had all the necessary findings and things for a range of different techniques. Then checked out some online tutorials so I knew what I was doing before I started - like you I don't like to waste money on stuffHappy
You can get cheap beads on ebay.

Oh and if you get a roll of beading wire, DON'T let go of the end, it'll uncoil like a mad hosepipe (ask me how I know lol)

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Reply #3:

I started out with bead kits as well, plastic and acrylic beads first. As I got better, then I got beads that costs a little more. But yeah your list would start out with Susanna posted with beads of course and a beading needle. The actual beading part is not so hard, it's more of having an eye for color combination and creativity. I too can post a how-to for bracelets, which is what I have been making a mess of lately, but I make necklaces, earrings, key rings, cell charms, etc. too.
Check out youtube too for instructional videos and beading books/magazines are good too.

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Reply #4:

I'll pray that I have the patience to start out with the small stuff first. lol

Much thanks peeps!

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Reply #5:

Check this site, there are beading lessons and simple projects
http://www.beadage.net/

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Reply #6:

I agree with Susanna. You need the basic supplies first. Round-nose pliers and flat nose pliers are a beady girl's best friend. You can basically do anything with those two tools! You can cut wire with a pair of fingernail clippers (saves you some money on expensive cutters). Also it helps to know what your wanting to make. Earring? Bracelets? Ect ect. Once you have the basic techniques down the rest will be as Creativemind said, coming up with color combinations and such. Most of your chain craft stores will offer classes and have kits that they sell with all of the tool included. Good luck and happy beading!!!! Its like a drug!!

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Reply #7:

I bought my stuff. I got a good deal on the pliers. Round-nose, flat-nose, and the others all in one pack for $10. Happy Still, getting started ended up with a total of $80. And I haven't even bought the beads yet.

I plan to take advantage of the upcoming Black Friday. Getting up at 4. Whee...

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