Threads

While beads are the main ingredients of the necklace or bracelet, other materials, such as thread and clasps are very important; additionally, there are a variety of tools that you will find extremely helpful, and good working environment is essential.

Threading Materials
The selection of thread for stringing is nearly as varied as the beads themselves, and comes in a wide assortment of materials, weights and thicknesses. Stringing cord is manufactured with a very tight twist that provides the material with surprising strength and durability, and is sometimes coated for additional protection. While it is possible this type of thread is designed for stitching through fabric, and could not bear the heavy weight of the beads; also, it would be cut through very quickly against the edges of the holes in the beads.

Stringing thread can be obtained on cards with needles attached, or on spools. The thread on cards ranges through all of the commonly used materials, weights and colours, and are approximately 75" in length, sufficient for a number of necklaces or bracelets, depending on the length of the strands and whether or not the thread is doubled.

The most important qualities to look for when selecting thread are that the threat will pass through the smallest borehole of the beads, and that it is strong enough to support the weight of the finished strand. The needles used in the stringing of beads are very different from those used for home sewing. A stringing needle is made from very thin wire that enables the needles to pass through very small holes, and it is flexible enough to pass between beads.

The following tables describe which stringing material is best used for various beads, and the types, weights and colors of threads that are used in our jewelry.

Applications of Stringing Material

Beads

Form of Beads

Length of Beads

Bead Threads

Bead Sizes and Information Chart