Project 213-2
Beading Lesson
Choosing the Right Stringing Material for your Design

By Katie Hacker

Sponsor:
Beadalon®

For tools and supplies
visit Beadalon.com


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Have you ever wondered why you should use flexible beading wire instead of thread? Or, why you should use poly-nylon cord instead of silk cord? This beading lesson explains
how to choose the right stringing material for your design.

Flexible beading wire is best for stringing projects featuring glass, crystal, metal and semi-precious beads. It combines the softness of thread with the strength of stainless steel. You choose the style of beading wire based on the flexibility you need. It's available in a variety of colors and widths.

Beading thread is primarily used for creating intricately woven designs. You can also use very thin beading wire for some woven designs, but thread is the typical choice for peyote stitch and other traditional beadwork.

Silk cord is traditionally used to string pearls and other gemstones with a knot between each bead. Poly-nylon cord is a less expensive, synthetic alternative to silk. It has less stretch and is also available in a variety of colors and sizes.

Memory wire is tempered wire that "remembers" its shape and retains its coiled form. It's basically one-size-fits-all and comes in pre-formed necklace, bracelet and ring sizes. You don't have to use a clasp to connect the ends because they automatically stay in place on your neck, wrist or finger.

Stretchy cord and thread are the more professional cousins of elastic cord - that cotton-coated rubber that people have used for years to make stretchy bracelets. Stretch plastic is less likely to stretch out and is not adversely affected by getting wet.

Leather cord and suede lace can be used to create a variety of designs. Leather cord is typically round, while suede lace is usually flat. Faux suede lace tends to be even softer and suppler than natural suede.

When choosing which type of stringing material to use, start by considering what type of design you're going to make. For example, if you're planning to make a single-strand necklace, you can use almost any stringing material. But, for a woven necklace, you must use very thin beading wire or thread.



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