For anyone w/ any jewelry making experience(preferably beadweaving)?

Question

Ok, so here's the deal, I want to try bead-weaving. I want to see if I'm up to it cause it seems really hard/time-consuming, But i'm up for a challenge. Before I'm willing to try any of this, I need serious advice on the supplies, what should I get and from where? Since I'm starting out I don't want to have to spend a lot of money, I'm might not go w/ it, I'm just trying it out. The #1 supply prob. is which string to use that'll actually stay in when I tie my pathic knots, that'll be thin yet strong enough to pass thru the bead more than twice. #2, any books w/ simple designs for starters, w/ help w/ knots? Thankx a lot 4 ur help.

Answer 1

It's a great hobby!!
Start here online for lots of good info and links to more.
http://beadwork.about.com/b/a/195715.htm

Most beaders use a thread called Nymo, some use beadalon wire, or fireline (fishing line), and others. I personally use doubled Nymo size B for most things. Thread is generally conditioned either with beeswax or "thread heaven". Beeswax is best if the item needs to be woven tighter and be a bit stiff. I use size 12 beading needles most of the time, sometimes size 11.

My suggestion for starting out is to choose a project, then get just the materials you need for that project. Beadweaving magazine and Bead and Button magazine both have a lot of good projects in them for beadweaving, and they also have tips for supplies, and instructions for basic techniques, including knotting, in each issue. Look at their websites as well. There are also sites online that sell kits ... that would also be a good choice for trying the hobby out and seeing if you like it.

Hope this helps.
Enjoy!
Happy Beading!