Wednesday, December 23, 2009

On the 11th Day of Christmas: Beaded Garland


Do you have left over beads? Do you have too many beads but can't figure out what to do with them? I often sell "grab bags" at shows made up of art beads that didn't sell, or are one of a kinds that don't fit in with the rest of my art bead line. This is a good use for left over art beads, accent beads or in my case, prototype beads and seconds.

This is an easy wire project. You'll make loops and string them together.

Materials:

Your favorite gauage wire in your favorite metal. I'm using 18 gauge red brass wire right off the spool.

Beads - lots of them! You know you have them!


Tools:

flush cutters for the gauge wire you're using

wire straightening pliers

round nose pliers

chain nose pliers

Directions:

1. String a bead of your choice onto the wire.

2. Make a loop at the end of the wire.

3. Cut 1/2 inch length at the opposite end of the wire and make another loop using your round nose pliers.

4. Make as many of these as you have beads and then string them together by opening the loops with your chain nose pliers.

Before you know it, you've used up all your extra art beads and you've got a lovely art bead garland or a free form art bead necklace.

Happy Beading!

4 comments:

Azure Accessories said...

I like this idea...I often do that with semi-precious stones or sometimes I will add a couple complimentary stones to give a bit of interest!

Cheers

Jeannie said...

This is a great way to use up that bead soup we all have. Thanks Cindy

Gemstone Beads said...

I also use the same idea with gemstone beads, semi precious beads, ruby beads or some other stones to looking beautiful.

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Gemstone Beads Exporter

Rembrandt Charms said...

That is a great fun activity putting the beads together and making a wonderful creation of your own choice.That is why I also love collecting beads.