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Using A Knotting Method to String Beads
| Learning to knotting between beads on a strand is not easy when you are a beginner. It takes practice and patience. Once you've mastered it, you'll open the door to so many new design opportunities. The knotting technique is beneficial because, if your strand breaks, you'll only lose the bead at the break. Additionally, knotting between beads, keeps beads/pearls from rubbing against each other and provides a professional look to your jewelry designs. Your thread becomes an element of the design and should be chosen with that in mind - it doesn't necessarily have to match the color of the beads but it should compliment the piece. |
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When choosing a thread, you'll want to select a thread that is just thin enough to pass through the hole - it must be thick enough to support the weight of the beads. Sizes 2 and 4 are the most popular sizes and we've used size 4 in light pink for this project. To get started, unwind the entire length of the silk cord from the card and at the end that doesn't have the needle, make a double knot. Place a dab of bead tip cement on the knot to secure it. Let the cement dry and using scissors, trim away excess cord. Then slide the needle and thread through a bead tip and secure the cup/clamshell around the knot by gently closing it with chain nose or flat nose pliers.
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Slide on your first bead/pearl (you don't need to knot before this bead) and make an overhand knot as close to your bead as possible. If you're having trouble getting the knot close to the bead, slide an awl or knotting tweezers into the knot (before you tighten it) and drag the knot down to the bead. Slide the next bead on and repeat. |
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*** The key to making a polished looking knotted piece is to ensure that the knots are going in the same direction. So, if you are doing overhand knots, continue knotting that way throughout the piece. ***
Continue Stringing until your last bead. Don't knot after this bead. Follow the last bead with a bead tip. Make your overhand knot and sliding the knot down into the cup of the bead tip (push tight if you are using tweezers or an awl to take up any slack) tighten the knot. This can take some practice. The idea is to push the last bead and bead tip down so that the knot is tight and there is no gap between the bead and the bead tip. Once you've make this knot, make another and using your awl, guide it to the knot in the cup of the bead tip - this will secure your first knot. Finish cutting the thread by dabbing glue on the knot and letting it dry before closing the cup of the clamshell. It might be wise to purchase additional bead tips - if you want to start over, you won't be able to reuse the bead tips.
Attach the clasp by closing the loops of the bead tips with your pliers (again, with gentle pressure). It's easy to see how with just a bit of practice you can dramatically improve your technique. |
To create the design above you will need the following items
Additional Recommended Items
To see more beading projects and jewelry design ideas click here
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