Beading Tools

Beadwork is the craft of making things with beads. Beads can be woven together with specialized thread, or adhered to a surface. Before starting a craft project, you should always ensure you have the necessary tools to complete the project.

There are many tools for the craft of beading, to make beaded curtains however, the amount of tools is small. Common beading tools are as follows:-

Beads

There are an endless variety of beads available, varying in material, shape and size.

Straws

Straws are a great way to elongate your beaded curtain, without using too many beads. Straws work as separators between beaded patterns.

Thread/String

Beading thread and string come in a range of sizes and colors, to match any beaded curtain project you are undertaking. Thread often comes in small or large spools.

Bead Wire

Bead wire can also be used to make beaded curtains, but can be more difficult to keep unknotted when threading.

Pliers

When using bead wire for your beaded curtains, pliers are needed to cut the wire. Try not to use scissors as this leaves an uneven cut on the wire. Round-nosed pliers are terrific for bending wire. Flat-nosed pliers are useful for holding jump rings when you need to bend them.

Glue

Craft glue can be used to keep thread knots from unraveling. Use a pin to apply a small amount to seal a knot, being careful not to get glue on any beads.

Bead Tips

Bead tips are metal findings that cover the knot at the end of a string of beads. Bead tips have holes between the two halves, which the thread goes through. Tying the knot around a seed bead and adding a drop of glue or clear nail polish secures the knot. Close the bead tip with pliers and snip the excess thread.

Eye Hooks

Eye hooks are used to connect the beaded strings to the curtain rod.

Curtain Rods

The curtain rod holds the beaded strings.

Wire Cutters

Diagonal wire cutters should cut flush.