We’ve created our how to make jewellery hub for all new jewellery makers so whether it’s beading, silver clay, or wire wrapping, we’re here with handy tips, guides and much more to help you as you start your journey. Want to try making jewellery with beads? Before you get started, why not brush up on some of the key areas of beaded jewellery making, understand the terminology and get to grips with what’s what in the beading world. Brush up on the essential bits you need to know and start your jewellery making off on the right foot…
Acrylic
Also known as “plexiglass”, a versatile plastic material available in a variety of colours and with variety of purposes.
Accent Bead
A bead that adds contrast because of colour, size or shape
Annealing
The process of heating a substance to a specific temperature before it’s worked on. Through this annealing process, the precious meal is softened and made pliable. This will allow you to shape the metal into the jewellery piece you want
Anti-Tarnish
Silver tarnishes when it is exposed to sulfur-containing gases in the air. It then discolours and darkens. Anti-tarnish metal is available that doesn’t discolour or darken
Aurora Borealis
A coating on beads that makes it iridescent, thus giving it a rainbow effect
Awl
A useful tool that is used to create knotted designs, as well as untying knots and clearing blocked holes.
Base Metal
An inexpensive and common metal, examples are copper, aluminum, lead, nickel, tin and zinc
Beading Board
Makes beading easier by allowing you to lay our your design and make changes, as well as work out lengths, avoid making mistakes and take it on the go
Beading Needle
A soft, long and flexible needle that allows you to get into tight little spots and work with beads, cords, pearls, ribbons, sequins and more
Bicone
A multi-faceted bead that is shaped like a double cone
Half-hitch Knot
A basic overhand knot that is used to secure beading thread
Stopper
A bead that is used at the end of your creation. Normally a little different to the other beads that are used, so it can be removed
Tail Thread
The short length of thread that is left at the beginning of your work, looks like a tail
Tension
Refers to the amount of force that is applied when a new stitch is created
Wingspan
Sometimes used to describe how much thread to work with
Ready to get started with making beaded jewellery? Visit our essential bead jewellery making hub and shop all of our essential beading tools and supplies and get making today!
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