Frame It

Using Bead Frames
Katie Hacker

Bead Frames Bead frames are some of my favorite secret weapons for jewelry making. The extra texture they provide takes basic stringing to the next level. Bead Frames are available in a huge variety of styles that suit every style. 4 ways to use a bead frame:



1. To string bead frames in a pattern: Pass the beading wire from one end to the other through the frame with a bead inside the window.

2. To make a dangle with bead inside the frame: Pass a head pin (or other stringing material) into the drilled bead frame hole from the outside. Pass through the frame and string a bead inside the window of the frame. Pass through the other drilled hole on the frame and make a loop.

3. To make a dangle without a bead inside the frame: Place a head pin inside the window of the bead frame. Pass it through the drilled hole extending toward the outside of the frame. Make a loop.

4: To make a dangle with a Katiedids™ bead frame: Pass an eye pin through the frame with a bead inside the window.  Make a loop outside the frame. Cut a piece of beading wire and pass it under the eye pin wire that is inside the channel. String seven 4mm beads onto the wire, pass under the other eye pin and add seven more beads. Complete the circle by passing the wire ends through opposite ends of the last few beads.

For more earring ideas featuring Bead Gallery beads, see Katie's book: Earrings 101
(Hot Off The Press 2012) available at Michaels stores and KatieHacker.com.