Lesson 1

Supplies, Yarns and Tools


The process of beading has two basic tasks:

  1. Beading needs a very thin needle to work through the openings on the beads.
  2. The artistry of bead work can be as complex as you care to make it, and is bound only by the limits of your imagination.


Click each coloured tab to view information about the activity.



  • Beading usually is inexpensive but can become more expensive depending on the beads you chose to work with.

  • Fishing line can be used for thread, also silk threads are used.




  • Most commonly, silk thread is used when stringing beads, but if you do not have any silk thread, fishing line will work well for many purposes.


  • If substituting the thread, select one which is as close as possible in weight and type to the thread recommended in the pattern.

  • Check the label for care information, tension and recommended needle size.





Wire cutter is a cutting tool used in cutting wire.




Round nose pliers are commonly used for creating loops in pieces of wire.

Flat nose pliers are the most used tool in beading and jewelry artistry.




Beading thread should be chosen for size and color to match the project.




Beading needles look like a normal sewing needle except they are more flexible, thin and have much smaller thread holes.