Bead Classes

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BASIC Beading Information

Thread:
So many types, colors, uses and reasons. I find I like certain types and sizes for certain projects but normally I use size B Nymo White thread from a large spool. Permanent magic markers are wonderful for hiding the small amount of thread that may show. Size B is not too thin or thick... just perfect for smaller bead projects. My stash of thread consists of Nymo size B in Black, White, Tan and Gray I also have; size A Nymo White and size D Nymo Black & White. Size A being finer, I use it for 13/o seed beads and smaller, this enables multiple thread passes through the beads. Size D being thicker and used for warping a loom or when I just want a heavier thread.

How much thread do I need to start with?
1 to 2 yards of thread is a good amount of thread to start a project unless otherwise noted in the instructions provided.
You can measure 1 yard from your finger tip to nose (approximately 1 yard);
1. Hold the cut end of the thread between your fingers on your left hand.
2. Hold the spool or bobbin of thread in your right hand.
3. Put the bobbin up to your nose, let the thread unwind from the spool/bobbin using even tension, no sagging or stretching.
4. Extend your left hand out to the side, as far as it will go.
This is approximately 1 yard. Some people stretch their arm further than others and some have shorter arms than others... it is an approximate length. Use what works best for YOU.

Which end of the thread should be passed through the needle?

Silamide:
If you are right handed you thread the needle with the thread that is coming off the spool. If you are left handed you should cut the thread and use the newly cut end to go through the needle. This way the twist will not come unwound. Courtesy of Suzanne Cooper

Nymo:
If you are right or left handed: thread the needle with the thread that is coming off the spool.

Threading the needle:
I hold the thread in my right hand between my index finger and thumb, with just about 1/16" thread showing (barely enough to see). Holding the needle in my left hand and move it toward the thread. By limiting the amount of thread sticking out past thumb and finger, the thread stays stiffer, with more thread sticking out there is a tendency for the thread to sag/split/move more freely.

Some say the hardest part of beading is threading the needle. I've heard that threading many needles at once helps when you are in the groove of beading. I'm going to try this, it sounds like a very smart thing to do. I wish I'd thought of it!
1. Thread several needles onto your thread spool/bobbin.
2. When you are ready to cut a thread for use: slide all the needles you will NOT be using down past the cutting point.
3. Cut your thread and start beading.

Fishing lines are coming into their own. I've tried and am pleased with Power Pro. I am starting to use this for projects that get heavy use: business card covers, daily wear necklace and bracelets, pen covers, maybe everything eventually, time will tell!

Nymo Tips:
Suggestions only, use what works best for you.

Nymo Tips:
Nymo thread will stretch a little. It is a good idea to stretch the thread while running it through wax or conditioner to prevent the stretching from affecting your bead project. Cutting the end of the thread at an angle may make needle threading easier.

Regardless of whether I use the bobbins (color) or the cones, I ALWAYS use a warm (not too hot or the thread will MELT) curling iron on my Nymo to straighten it and "set" it. It eliminates ANY stretch factor. Courtesy of Liz Duffey

If you notice your thread twisting while beading: Stop and correct the twisting. Allowing twisting to continue can lead to KNOTS. Hold beadwork in one hand and allow the needle/thread to dangle. Doing this allows the twists to come undone.

Silamide Tips:
Suggestions only, use what works best for you.

Silamide Tips:
Silamide does not stretch like Nymo. I hate doing fringe with Nymo because I will have the strands perfectly fitted up against the piece and find about a 1/8" length of thread showing the next day. Yes, I know I could stretch the Nymo but why bother? You don't have to wax Silamide either. Courtesy of Suzanne Cooper

Don't ever wet the end of the thread. Put some lip balm on your lips and put the end of the thread between your lips and press down. Courtesy of Suzanne Cooper

Something that works well for me is to "smudge" a bit of nail polish on the end and pull it between two pieces of paper (so you don't get it on your fingers). The advantage with this method becomes apparent if you have to unthread and then re-thread. Courtesy of Liz Duffey

Silamide is very easy to use if you moisture it (mouth) and flatten it between your fingertips. Courtesy of Ennikki Elguiraoui

When beading with Silamide it is good to let the needle "drop" downwards at times....and un-dangle all the twists....= straight thread again...no problems with knots. Courtesy of Ennikki Elguiraoui

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