Helpful Learning Tips

If you're just starting out on learning how to make jewelry, first off - welcome to a wonderful world of creation!

Start small, and don't be intimidated!  A needle and thread can look like intimidating tools, but beadweaving is a very simple step-by-step process, full of repetitive and soothing movements.  Once you learn a few designs, you'll be able to start applying elements of each piece into learning new techniques.

To begin with, we recommend starting with earrings.  We suggest avoiding fringe-like designs, as they'll involve a slightly more complicated technique called a ladder stitch.

Here is a great video detailing how to make a few basic types of beaded earrings - no weaving needed.  To ensure your success, we also recommend the following:

1. Buy the right size bead - 8mm and 11mm beads will be frustratingly tiny for beginner eyes.  Look for beads sized 2mm, 4mm, or 6mm for the easiest size to learn with.

2.  You DON'T need the most high-quality materials - we're just learning, don't stress yourself with buying 14k gold earring backs or Swarovski crystal bicones.  Start easy - there are so many steel, acrylic, and glass materials out there that will provide you a lasting product that's still easy to learn.

3. If using instructional videos, slow down the playback speed.  You can often follow along much easier when the video is in half- or even quarter-speed.

4.  Keep trying - don't get discouraged!  If designs aren't coming together and beads aren't laying how they should, don't give up.  

Try changing your threads, try a bigger size bead, or ensure you're using exactly the same shape as the tutorial you're following.  Bead designs can often translate to bigger sizes (for instance, a bracelet can be made using 6mm beads instead of 8mm beads), but bead shapes are usually not interchangeable.  If a bracelet is using bicones, do not use pearls or rondelles instead as the design WILL lay different.