Are you new to the world of beadwork? If so, you may be feeling a tad overwhelmed and confused about all of the bead supplies that are available to create a basic collection.
More than likely, your first bead project will be stringing bead jewelry. The bead supplies you will need for this project is either memory wire or elastic thread. By choosing one of these, you will not need to purchase much else – except your beads.
Of course, you can always purchase other bead supplies such as crimps, caps, clasps and other tools, but they are not necessary for a simple bead necklace or bracelet. It should be noted that if you do choose to work with memory wire, you will need a wire cutter. While some people choose to cut their memory wire with house scissors, it will ruin them and you won’t be able to use them around the house anymore.
Elastic thread is a favorite for stringing beads. All you have to do is tie the ends together after you have strung your beads and you are done. However, you should not use elastic thread or memory wire if you plan on stringing pears! Pearls need to have a knot between each of them. This keeps the pears from rubbing together and you cannot do this with elastic thread or memory wire.
If you decide to use memory wire, you can do without clasps. All you have to do is make small loops at the end of the wire to keep your beads from falling off. If you like, you can use a pair of needle-nose pliers to help you make the loops. But, you should seriously consider wrapping the ends of the wire in tape before you use the pliers. This will keep your wire from getting scratched.