If you’ve ever held a beautiful pendant in one hand and a chain in the other and thought, “How do I join you two together without it looking weird?” — congratulations, you’ve just met the magical world of bead bails.

Bead bails are the unsung heroes of jewellery making. They’re the tiny but mighty components that connect your pendant, gemstone, donut, or scarf to a chain, cord, or ribbon. Without them, your masterpiece is just… a very pretty paperweight.

Let’s break down the different types of bead bails, what they’re used for, and how to choose the right one for your next jewellery project.

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What Are Bead Bails?

A bead bail is a jewellery finding that attaches a pendant or focal bead to a chain or necklace. Some bails glue on, some pinch on, some fold, and some open like a jump ring with ambition.

They’re essential for:

• Pendant necklaces
• Gemstone donut pendants
• Scarf jewellery
• Crystal drops
• Resin creations
• Polymer clay designs

Now let’s get into the fun stuff.

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Bead Bails

The classic. The reliable. The “I just need something that works beautifully” option.

Standard bead bails usually have a decorative front and a loop at the top for threading onto a chain. Some attach with a peg and glue, while others connect with a jump ring.

Perfect for:

• Crystal pendants
• Resin drops
• Polymer clay charms
• Flat-backed cabochons (with glue)

They’re neat, elegant, and come in a huge range of finishes.

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Bow Tie Bails

Yes, they really do look like tiny bow ties. And yes, they are adorable.

Bow tie bails feature two decorative flared ends and a centre loop. They create a lovely finished look at the top of a pendant and add a touch of extra detail.

Best for:

• Glass crystal pendants
• Handmade resin pieces
• Decorative focal beads

If you want your pendant to look polished and professional, these are a brilliant option.

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Donut Bails

Got a gemstone donut with a big hole in the centre? Enter the donut bail.

These clever little findings slide through the centre of the stone and create a loop at the top for your chain. No glue required. No wire wrapping needed.

Perfect for:

• Gemstone donut pendants
• Large-hole stone pieces
• Crystal rings

They make wearing those chunky gemstone donuts effortless.

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Glue-On Bails

Sometimes your pendant has no hole at all. That’s when glue-on bails save the day.

These flat-backed bails attach directly to the back of your pendant using adhesive. They’re ideal for:

• Cabochons
• Flat resin pieces
• Polymer clay designs
• Glass tiles

For most glue-on bail jobs, we recommend E6000 adhesive. It’s strong, flexible, and designed for jewellery making. Apply a small amount, press firmly, and allow proper curing time for best results.

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Leaf Bails

Leaf bails are like glue-on bails… but smarter.

They feature two decorative arms that fold over the top of a pendant, meaning you glue both sides for extra hold. That dual contact makes them more secure than single-surface glue-on bails.

Great for:

• Flat gemstone pendants
• Resin slabs
• Polymer clay pieces
• Handmade focal charms

They’re decorative and practical. We love a multitasker.

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Pinch Bails

Pinch bails do exactly what the name suggests. They pinch.

These bails have two prongs that insert into a top-drilled pendant (like many crystal drops) and close together to hold it securely.

Ideal for:

• Top-drilled crystal teardrops
• Glass pendants
• Stone drops

No glue required. Just gently close with pliers and you’re good to go.

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Scarf Bails

Scarf bails are larger, chunkier bails designed to slide over fabric.

They’re perfect for:

• Turning a silk scarf into a necklace
• Adding a decorative centrepiece to fabric
• Statement jewellery designs

They have a wide opening that allows scarves, cords, or thick ribbons to pass through easily.

If you want jewellery versatility, scarf bails are fantastic.

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Triangle Bails

Triangle bails are a bit of a hidden gem in the jewellery findings world.

They’re shaped like a triangle of wire with an opening along one side. You can gently open them, slide in a pendant loop or bead, and close them again.

They’re:

• Discreet
• Minimal
• Easy to use

Perfect when you want a simple, modern look without bulky hardware.

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Choosing the Right Bead Bail

When selecting a bead bail for jewellery making, consider:

• Does your pendant have a hole?
• Is it top-drilled or centre-drilled?
• Is it flat-backed?
• Do you want decorative or minimal?
• Will it be worn on chain, cord, or scarf?

There’s no single “best” bail. It all depends on your project.

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Why Bead Bails Matter

The right bail can:

• Improve the way a pendant hangs
• Make your jewellery look professionally finished
• Add decorative detail
• Increase durability
• Make swapping pendants easy

They may be small, but bead bails completely change the final look of your design.

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Whether you’re working with crystal pendants, gemstone donuts, resin art, or polymer clay creations, having a good understanding of bead bails and jewellery findings will make your projects easier and more polished.

Now go forth and bail brilliantly.

Dear fellow bead lovers,

We’re open right up until Christmas Eve with hundreds of great Christmas gift ideas starting from less than $10! Please check our Ultimate Gift Guide for the rundown on the hottest crafty gifts of the year! As the holidays approach, we want to keep you informed about our trading hours during the Christmas and New Year period. Please take note of the following schedule:

Monday December 22nd – 9am to 5pm
Tuesday December 23rd – 9am to 5pm
Wednesday December 24th – 9am to 3pm

CHRISTMAS CLOSURE
Thursday December 25th – CLOSED
Friday December 26th – CLOSED
Saturday December 27th -CLOSED
Sunday December 28th – CLOSED

POST CHRISTMAS 3-day MEGA SALE
Monday December 29th – 10am to 3pm
Tuesday December 30th – 10am to 3pm
Wednesday December 31st – 10am to 3pm

NEW YEARS CLOSURE
Thursday January 1st – CLOSED
Friday January 2nd – CLOSED
Saturday January 3rd – CLOSED
Sunday January 4th – CLOSED

We will resume normal trading hours from Monday January 5th:
Weekdays: 9 am to 5 pm
Saturdays: 10 am to 3 pm

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to serving you during this festive season. We hope you have a magical Christmas and a happy new year!

Wishing you and your family all the best,
the Beads N Crystals team

Hey there, bead enthusiasts! The countdown is officially begun! Our 12 Weeks of Christmas Promotion is on now and you won’t want to miss a single moment of the excitement!

Each week, you’ll have the chance to collect a stunning new Christmas charm—14k gold plated, tarnish resistant and sparkling with Cubic Zirconia’s, of course! But that’s not all—prepare for a whirlwind of special sale offers dropping every Monday at 10 AM. Expect price slashes of up to 80% off on a fantastic range of your favourite beading and crafting goodies, but act fast—stock is limited and some deals may have purchase limits!

Join us on this festive adventure and keep your eyes peeled for the incredible surprises we have in store. It’s going to be a spectacular season filled with joy, creativity, and so much sparkle. Mark your calendars and get ready to make the most of the holiday magic coming your way!

Let the countdown begin! 🎄💖
Travis out

Our famous 12-Weeks of Christmas give-away is back for 2024 with this stunning collection of gorgeous jewellery-quality charms. Members receive a FREE 14-karat gold plated tarnish resistant cubic zirconia charm valued at $16 with a qualifying purchase over $30 (including GST, excluding postage)! Some exclusions apply. Not a member? No problem, join for free!

Check out the 12 brilliant festive designs above. A different one is available each week with a new style released every Monday. Get in early, we have a very limited number of charms each week and they’re only available while stock lasts.

Turn your charms into a gorgeous bracelet with our matching 14k gold plated tarnish resistant chain bracelet which is on sale while stock lasts at just $6. Limited to one purchase per customer per day until sold out.

If that wasn’t enough, we’re also releasing huge special deals each week right up until Christmas. Keep an eye on this page and your emails for the weekly deals! They’re going to be UNBELIEVABLE!

How does it work?

Simply place an order online or make a purchase in-store between September 30th and December 24th, 2024, to the value of $30 or more (including GST, excluding postage) and we’ll give you the corresponding charm for the date the order was placed. We’ll supply it automatically! Simple! (But only for members and while stock lasts)

What Purchases are Eligible?

All in-stock physical products purchased online or in our Annerley bead shop count towards the $30 minimum spend to earn a charm. Exclusions apply: membership costs, gift vouchers purchased, service & repair charges, wholesale deposits, and special orders (such as Preciosa factory pack orders direct from Czechia) don’t count. The minimum spend must also be in a single transaction.

Am I already a Member?

This promotion is open to Australian domestic transactions only, and where the purchaser is a member of Beads N Crystals.

• Ordering Online? You’re automatically a member, even if you check out as a guest. It’s that easy, nothing else to do!
• VIP Member? If you’re a VIP (And you know if you’re a VIP! The fridge magnet, the free beads every month, the huge exclusive percentage off deals, the red carpet rolled right out to your valeted car. Ok, not the last one.) then you’re a member, with benefits!
• Bead Lover Member? If you’ve ever given us your phone number or name at the counter to earn those $10 vouchers, then you’re one of us!
• Wholesale Client? Yes! You’re already on Santa’s Nice list too!
• None of the Above? No worries! We can set you up with a free Bead Lover membership in just a couple of minutes! Then you’ll be eligible to collect the charms, as well as earn points towards free $10 gift vouchers! No catch!

WEEKLY SPECIALS – LIVE NOW

Get ready for our 12 Weeks of Christmas Deals – the ultimate countdown for bead lovers and craft enthusiasts! 

We’re unwrapping fresh discounts every Monday at 10am, with prices dropping by up to 80% off on beading and crafting goodies! But hurry—stock is limited, and once it’s gone, it’s gone!

This is your chance to score incredible deals, many are at or below cost. There might be purchase limits on some products to make sure everyone gets a crack at these festive bargains. Don’t miss out on the weekly surprises! Whether you’re stocking up for your own holiday projects or grabbing last-minute gifts, there’s something for everyone!

 Mark your calendar: Every Monday at 10am, from now until December 16. The magic only lasts until sold out, and deals may end as the new ones are released, so be quick!

Psst… no further discounts apply, so grab these steals before they disappear!

Jump over to our 12 WEEKS Of Deals page…

What are the limits and other rules?

Only one charm is available per member per day on a qualifying purchase of $30 (or more) of in-stock physical items (including GST, excluding postage) per customer per day. Only the charm shown in the flyer and promotional material is available in that week and only while stock lasts. Cannot be swapped for credit, cash or any other item.

You may return within the same week or any number of times during the promotional period to collect more charms on other purchases. Charms are limited to the first 200 customers per week, with the week beginning 12.01am Monday EST (Brisbane non-daylight savings time). Where a charm runs out within the 7-day period for that charm, no other alternative free item, credit or other benefit will be made available, and no future charm will be brought forward to cover any shortfall. We will endeavor to advise a charm’s availability on this page, so please check below for updates.

The discounted chain bracelet is limited to one unit per customer per day.

Sale items offered in the weekly deals page are available only until sold out. Some products may have a minimum order quantity, and/or a limit per customer.

Free charms do not apply to purchases where the total becomes less than $30 due to a credit, refund or exchange. For example if you purchase $30 worth of goods to receive the charm and return the goods but plan to keep the charm you will need to pay for the charm. Only available to orders placed through this website, or in person at our shop. Not available to phone or email orders, or orders we may manage through another website, platform or marketplace. The charms are non-refundable and non-redeemable for cash or credit. All statutory rights under the trade practices act are always maintained and are not excluded or implied to be excluded.

STOCK AVAILABILITY UPDATES

There is a very limited number of free charms available each week. Get in early to avoid disappointment. Charms may run out before we are able to put a notice on this page.

Any remaining stock will be available for purchase from the day after the corresponding week ends. Please check back after mid-day on Mondays to see if any remaining stock is available from the previous week. Charms are $16 and there is a generous discount on offer for VIP Members and Wholesale Clients Limits per customer. Note that no purchase limits will apply to remaining charm purchases once released for sale and they are available only until the allocation has sold out.

Beside the current charm, we’ll try our best to keep a rough percentage of stock remaining to ensure you’re aware if it will sell out before the week finishes.

UPDATED: 9.05am, Monday 23/12/24

• Week 1 Charm – Tree – SOLD OUT
• Week 2 Charm – Deluxe Stocking – Remaining Charms on Sale now (VERY LOW STOCK)
• Week 3 Charm – Snowflake – SOLD OUT
• Week 4 Charm – Gingerbread Man – Remaining Charms on Sale now (VERY LOW STOCK)
• Week 5 Charm – Candy Cane – Remaining Charms on Sale now (LOW STOCK)
• Week 6 Charm – Wreath – SOLD OUT
• Week 7 Charm – Reindeer – SOLD OUT
• Week 8 Charm – Santa Sleigh – Remaining Charms on Sale now (VERY LOW STOCK)
• Week 9 Charm – Stocking – SOLD OUT
• Week 10 Charm – Angel – SOLD OUT
• Week 11 Charm – Christmas Tree – SOLD OUT
• Week 12 Charm – Christmas Present – SOLD OUT

When you’re browsing through our beads, findings, and jewellery-making supplies, you’ll see names like Gold, Silver, Rose Gold, Gunmetal, or Antique Bronze. But what do these names really mean? Let’s clear up the sparkle so you know exactly what you’re working with.

Gold – Pure, plated, filled, or vermeil?

When we say “Gold” in our wires, chains, or findings, we’re not talking about solid bullion (9999 fine). Instead, it usually means gold-plated or gold-coloured. But there are a few other special finishes worth knowing about:

• Gold Plated – A thin layer of gold bonded to a base metal. Affordable and bright.
• Gold Vermeil – A thicker gold plating applied over genuine sterling silver. This gives you the warmth of gold with a quality silver base. Best part is, it’s precious metal all the way through!
• Gold Filled – Made by mechanically bonding a much thicker layer of real gold to a base metal core (often brass). It has far more gold than standard plating and can last many years with proper care. It’s the best of the best when you don’t want high-end jewellery store prices.

Gold-filled and vermeil are the closest you’ll get to “fine jewellery” quality without stepping into solid gold territory.

Silver – Pure, plated or sterling?

Just like with gold, “Silver” in most jewellery findings refers to silver plating or silver-coloured finishes, not pure silver. Still, we do stock some higher-grade options:

• 925 Sterling Silver – Made from 92.5% pure silver alloyed with a small amount of other metals for strength.
• Argentium Silver – A premium version of sterling that resists tarnish longer, thanks to added germanium.

Both are great choices for customers looking for the real deal in silver.

Stainless Steel – strong and stylish

Stainless steel is our go-to metal and a favourite for many of our customers because it’s tough, long-lasting, and hypoallergenic for most wearers. But not all stainless is the same:

• 304 Stainless Steel – Commonly used for ear wires and studs. It’s durable, corrosion-resistant, and safe for sensitive ears.
• 201 Stainless Steel – Found in our per-metre chain. It’s strong and affordable, with a slightly different balance of nickel and manganese compared to 304, making it a good option for everyday designs.

Both grades offer excellent value and sturdiness for jewellery-making.

Bonus Science Lesson – Stainless & Nickel?

One thing that understandably surprises people is that Stainless Steel, you know, the hypoallergenic metal that people, kitchens and hospital operating theatres use to avoid nasty reactions to nickel and cadmium, actually contains nickel! How can that be safe? Well for that we need a quick chemistry lesson!

The key thing to understand is that in stainless steel, the nickel is tightly bound at a molecular level within the alloy. It doesn’t behave like separate nickel metal, which is what usually causes skin reactions. Instead, it’s locked into the structure alongside iron and chromium, so only an infinitesimally small amount (if any) can ever migrate to the skin. That’s why the vast majority of people can wear stainless steel comfortably while avoiding the reactions that some metals can cause.

If you can run to the kitchen and pick up the table salt container, the label usually says something like: Ingredients: Sodium Chloride, Anti-Caking Agent. My first thought, I’m glad the anti-caking agent is there, who wants a slice of salt cake!? But back to the actual ingredient: Sodium chloride. It’s just the chemical name for ordinary salt.

Now, if you go looking up the elements that make it (don’t take my word for it, check the wiki articles), you’ll find a bit of a surprise. Sodium on its own is a soft metal that explodes and bursts into flames in water (look that up on YouTube). Chlorine is a poisonous green gas and the main active ingredient of pool cleaning chemicals. Neither sound like something you’d want on your dinner!

Here’s the catch: when you search online, you’ll want to look up chlorine, not chloride. Why? Because chloride is what chlorine turns into once it gains an extra electron and bonds with sodium. Chloride is the safe, stable form. On its own, “chloride” doesn’t have much of an identity – it only really exists as part of compounds like sodium chloride, potassium chloride, or calcium chloride. So if you want to understand what salt is made from, you need to see what sodium and chlorine are like individually before they combine.

Anyway, just as an explosive metal is sitting on your chips, it’s completely safe because it’s molecularly bound to poisonous gas. Yummy! Similarly, here is nickel inside Stainless steel, but it’s completely contained and bound within the alloy, so it’s completely safe. While its raw ingredients might sound worrying when considered individually, once combined they form a strong, safe material that’s ideal for jewellery, findings, and chain. What can we say, science is weird!

Copper – warm tones and versatile

Copper adds a beautiful, earthy glow to jewellery. Unless specified as solid copper, most items listed as “copper” are copper-coloured or copper alloy. They still provide the rustic warmth of copper without the price of pure metal. Many alloys can be as much as 90 to 99% pure copper with the other ingredients there to promote strength, flexibility, durability, hardness and tarnish resistance. Wire called “Bare Copper” is pure copper with no alloys or added metals.

Brass, Bronze, and Other Shades

When you see names like Brass, Bronze, Antique Silver, Rose Gold, or Gunmetal, these refer to the colour of the plating rather than the solid metal itself. The base underneath is typically:

• Steel or steel alloy – Use a magnet – if it sticks to the metal, it contains steel.
• Brass alloy – The most common base metal if it doesn’t stick to a magnet.
• Zinc alloy – Common in charms and intricately cast pieces.

These platings give your designs a wide range of finishes and creative options.

Metal Safety – Our Testing and Codes

We know how important safety is when it comes to jewellery and craft supplies, so we take the extra step of testing our metals for lead and nickel content (something the marketplaces don’t do!). These are the two of the most common elements people want to avoid, especially when making jewellery for sensitive skin or for children.

To make things easy, you’ll notice some of our products carry special codes. These indicate that the metals have been tested and found to be free of certain substances:

• LCF – Lead and Cadmium Free
• LNCF – Lead, Nickel and Cadmium Free
• LNF – Lead and Nickel Free

These codes give you peace of mind that you can create and wear with confidence, knowing what’s not in your materials is just as important as what is.

Why this matters for jewellery makers

Understanding metals and platings helps you choose the right materials for your project. Want long-lasting gold tone? Go for gold-filled. Need hypoallergenic findings? Stainless steel or sterling is your best bet. Designing costume jewellery with bold finishes? Plated alloys give you endless colour choices at an affordable price.

With a little knowledge, you can pick the perfect combination of shine, strength, and style for your next creation.

If you want to know more, please email us with the SKU or part number of the items you’re looking at and we’ll provide a more comprehensive list of specifics on those items.

Jewellery making is an art form that continually evolves with new materials and innovative designs. Among the many beads available to artisans, Par Puca beads stand out for their unique shapes, superior craftsmanship, and endless creative possibilities. Designed by the renowned French bead artist Puca, these beads have captivated jewellery makers worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of Par Puca beads, exploring their history, individual types, and creative potential.

Introduction and History of Par Puca Beads

Par Puca beads were introduced by the talented French designer Puca, who has a passion for creating unique and versatile bead shapes. Puca’s designs aim to inspire jewellery makers to push the boundaries of their creativity. Manufactured in the Czech Republic, Par Puca beads are crafted from high-quality Czech glass, known for its durability and vibrant colours. The precise engineering of these beads ensures uniformity in size and shape, which is essential for intricate beadwork.

Since their introduction, Par Puca beads have gained a loyal following among jewellery makers. Their distinctive shapes and dual-hole designs allow for complex and cohesive patterns that are difficult to achieve with traditional beads. Whether you are a seasoned bead artist or a beginner, Par Puca beads offer endless opportunities for creative expression.

Types of Par Puca Beads

Arcos Par Puca Beads

Arcos Par Puca beads are crescent-shaped beads with three holes, measuring 5x10mm. Their unique, curved design makes them perfect for creating elegant, flowing patterns and intricate, circular motifs. The three-hole configuration allows for versatile bead weaving and layering, making Arcos beads a favourite among jewellery makers.

Creative Project Ideas for Arcos Par Puca Beads

Elegant Necklaces: Use Arcos beads to form graceful curves and circular patterns in your necklaces. Pair them with seed beads and other Par Puca beads for a cohesive design.

Chic Bracelets: Craft stylish bracelets by combining Arcos beads with Kos and Minos beads to create intricate, layered patterns.

Sophisticated Earrings: Design earrings with Arcos beads arranged in floral or star motifs, adding crystals or pearls for a touch of elegance.

Amos Par Puca Beads

Amos Par Puca beads are teardrop-shaped beads with two parallel holes, measuring 5x8mm. These versatile beads are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your designs. Their unique shape and dual-hole design make them ideal for creating detailed patterns and adding dimension to your jewellery.

Creative Project Ideas for Amos Par Puca Beads

Graceful Necklaces: Use Amos beads to create flowing, teardrop patterns in your necklaces. Combine them with other Par Puca beads for a unified design.

Stylish Bracelets: Craft chic bracelets by incorporating Amos beads with seed beads and multi-hole beads to add depth and texture.

Elegant Earrings: Design sophisticated earrings with Amos beads arranged in cascading motifs, enhancing the design with crystals or pearls.

Kheops Par Puca Beads

Kheops Par Puca beads are triangular beads with a two-hole design, measuring 6x6mm. Their flat, pyramid-like shape makes them perfect for creating geometric patterns and adding dimension to your beadwork. Kheops beads can be used as spacers, accents, or focal points in your jewellery designs.

Creative Project Ideas for Kheops Par Puca Beads

Geometric Necklaces: Combine Kheops beads with seed beads to create intricate geometric patterns in your necklaces.

Stylish Bracelets: Use the two-hole design to create layered bracelets with depth and texture.

Sophisticated Earrings: Design earrings with Kheops beads arranged in triangular motifs, adding crystals for a touch of sparkle.

Kos Par Puca Beads

Kos Par Puca beads feature a flat, curved design with two holes, measuring 3x6mm. These beads are ideal for creating elegant curves and waves in your jewellery. Kos beads seamlessly integrate with other Par Puca beads, allowing for cohesive and intricate designs.

Creative Project Ideas for Kos Par Puca Beads

Graceful Necklaces: Use Kos beads to form flowing, elegant patterns in your necklaces.

Chic Bracelets: Combine Kos beads with other multi-hole beads to craft stylish and complex bracelets.

Delicate Earrings: Create sophisticated earrings by arranging Kos beads in wave-like motifs, adding pearls for elegance.

Minos Par Puca Beads

Minos Par Puca beads are small, cylindrical beads with a single hole, measuring 2.5x3mm. These versatile beads can be used as spacers, accents, or main elements in your designs. Their simple shape makes them ideal for a wide range of jewellery projects.

Creative Project Ideas for Minos Par Puca Beads

Elegant Necklaces: Use Minos beads as spacers between larger beads or combine them with other Par Puca beads.

Chic Bracelets: Create stylish bracelets by mixing Minos beads with seed beads and other multi-hole beads.

Sophisticated Earrings: Design earrings with Minos beads as accents in complex beadwork patterns.

Paros Par Puca Beads

Paros Par Puca beads are oval-shaped beads with two parallel holes, measuring 4x7mm. Their unique shape and dual-hole design make them perfect for adding dimension to your jewellery. Paros beads work well with other Par Puca beads, allowing for intricate and cohesive patterns.

Creative Project Ideas for Paros Par Puca Beads

Geometric Necklaces: Use Paros beads to create intricate patterns in your necklaces.

Layered Bracelets: Combine Paros beads with seed beads and other multi-hole beads to craft stylish bracelets.

Elegant Earrings: Design earrings with Paros beads arranged in unique motifs, adding crystals for sparkle.

Super Kheops Par Puca Beads

Super Kheops Par Puca beads are triangular, two-hole beads with a three-dimensional pyramid shape, measuring 6x6mm. These beads are ideal for creating bold geometric patterns and adding depth to your beadwork.

Creative Project Ideas for Super Kheops Par Puca Beads

Geometric Necklaces: Use the pyramid shape of Super Kheops beads to create bold patterns in your necklaces.

Layered Bracelets: Craft stylish bracelets by combining Super Kheops beads with seed beads and other multi-hole beads.

Dynamic Earrings: Design earrings with Super Kheops beads in star or floral motifs, adding crystals for elegance.

Tinos Par Puca Beads

Tinos Par Puca beads are trapezoidal, two-hole beads measuring 4x10mm. Their distinctive shape and dual-hole design make them perfect for creating geometric patterns and adding dimension to your jewellery.

Creative Project Ideas for Tinos Par Puca Beads

Geometric Necklaces: Use Tinos beads to create bold geometric patterns in your necklaces.

Layered Bracelets: Combine Tinos beads with seed beads and other multi-hole beads to craft stylish bracelets.

Dynamic Earrings: Design earrings with Tinos beads arranged in star or floral motifs, adding crystals for elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What makes Par Puca beads unique?

A: Par Puca beads are unique due to their distinctive shapes and dual-hole designs, which allow for the creation of intricate and cohesive beadwork patterns. They are crafted from high-quality Czech glass, ensuring durability and vibrant colours.

Q: How do I choose the right Par Puca beads for my project?

A: Consider the design and complexity of your project. For geometric patterns, Kheops, Super Kheops, and Tinos beads are ideal. For flowing designs, Kos and Paros beads work well. Minos beads are versatile and can be used as spacers or accents.

Q: What type of thread should I use with Par Puca beads?

A: Use a strong, flexible beading thread such as Fireline or Wildfire to support your designs and ensure they hold up over time.

Q: Can I combine Par Puca beads with other bead types?

A: Yes, Par Puca beads can be combined with seed beads, crystals, pearls, and other multi-hole beads to create unique and intricate designs.

Where to Buy Par Puca Beads

For Australian crafters, finding a reliable supplier of Par Puca beads is essential. Visit Beads N Crystals, a trusted source for high-quality beads and beading supplies. Based in Brisbane, Beads N Crystals offers an extensive range of Par Puca beads, ensuring you have access to the best selection for your projects. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect beads for your designs and provide expert advice on jewellery making.

Par Puca beads are a fantastic addition to any jewellery maker’s collection. Their unique shapes, superior craftsmanship, and vibrant colour options make them perfect for creating intricate and stunning designs. Whether you’re a seasoned bead artist or a beginner looking to expand your bead collection, Par Puca beads provide endless opportunities for creative expression.

Discover the endless possibilities and elegance of Par Puca beads and take your beadwork to new heights. Happy crafting!

Hey there, fellow bead enthusiasts! It’s your friendly Web Wizard, Travis, and today, we’re diving into the magical world of the One Step Looper. Buckle up because we’re about to turn your wire looping game on it’s head with this nifty tool!

What is the One Step Looper?

Imagine a wizard’s wand for beaders – that’s the One Step Looper! This nifty gadget is here to revolutionise the way you create loops for your jewellery designs. No more fumbling with pliers or struggling to get consistent loops. It’s like having a bead-tying superhero at your fingertips!

Why You Need It:

Efficiency Overload:

Say goodbye to tedious loop-making. With the One Step Looper, each squeeze results in a perfect loop. Efficiency level? Through the roof!!

Consistency is Key:

Achieve uniform loops every single time. Your designs will thank you for the consistency, and your friends will wonder if you’ve secretly enrolled in a loop perfection class.

Time-Saving Wonder:

The One Step Looper is a time-saving maestro. Spend less time wrestling with your tools and more time unleashing your creativity.

How to Master the One Step Looper Like a Pro:

Now that you’re convinced this tool is your new crafting BFF, let’s dive into some tips and tricks to wield the One Step Looper with finesse:

Choose the Right Wire:

Opt for soft wires in medium gauges, like 20g, 22g and 24g. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll be able to step up to precious metal wires like gold-filled or sterling silver. These medium sizes will respond better to the magic touch of the One Step Looper.

Mind Your Tension:

Keep your wire taut but not overly tight. A gentle touch ensures smooth loops without any wire rebellion.

Practice Makes Perfect:

Before tackling your masterpiece, practice on scrap wire. Familiarize yourself with the tool’s rhythm, and soon you’ll be looping like a pro.

Experiment with Bead Sizes:

The One Step Looper can handle various bead sizes, so don’t be shy to experiment. From delicate seed beads to chunky crystals, let your creativity run wild!

Accessorise Your Loops:

Branch out of your comfort zone and try something different! Sdding charms, beads, or jump rings to your loops can make them even more unique. Try creating beaded daisy-chains, beaded lamp shades or curtain tassels. The One Step Looper makes it a breeze to create customised, embellished loops.

Why We Love It:

Crafting Bliss:

Say goodbye to hand cramps and hello to a blissful crafting experience. The One Step Looper turns loop-making into a joyous dance.

Versatility Unleashed:

Whether you’re a seasoned pro like mwa (moi if you’re French), or a crafting newbie, this tool welcomes everyone into the loop-lover’s club. From simple designs to intricate creations, the One Step Looper has your back.

No More Guesswork:

Bid farewell to guesswork and hello to confidence. With the One Step Looper, you’re the master of your loops, every single time.

So where to from here?

There you have it, bead maestros – your fun guide to the One Step Looper! Embrace the loop, unleash your creativity, and let the One Step Looper be your crafting sidekick. Dive into the world of seamless loops and watch your jewellery designs transform into loop-tastic masterpieces.

Where to buy the One Step Looper

Beads N Crystals is the bead shop near you, and we have the complete range of loopers. There are three different loop sizes: 1.5mm, 2.25mm and 3mm, so you can select the perfect loop size. If you’re into fine jewellery, definitely head for the 1.5mm. For heavy tasks, the 3mm has your back. Everyone else will get the most practicality from the medium size 2.25mm tool.

Happy crafting, loopsters!
Travis Out!

Hey, everyone! We’ve got some exciting news for you – we’ve enlisted the help of a new addition to the team in 2024. Please give a warm welcome to Travis, our not-so-average kind-of-work-experience guy. He’s here to sprinkle a bit of chaos, a dash of laughter, and a whole lot of creativity into our digital world.

Travis is not your typical tech genius. In fact, he’s the kind of guy who thinks “Ctrl + Alt + Delete” is designed to give you time to do a little dance! But hey, who needs perfection when you can have a truckload of charm and a heart full of enthusiasm, right!?

We’ve tasked Travis with the important mission of improving our website. Now, before you grab your precious beads and crystals and head for the hills (although we’d prefer the beach – although South Bank is about as far away as we get to go for a day out!), let us reassure you – Travis is a lovable klutz, but he’s got a knack for turning oopsies into “happy little accidents,” as he likes to call them.

Picture this: Travis, armed with a keyboard, and a mouse packed with a few too many LED’s, ready to conquer the vast realm of cyberspace. He’s got a determined look in his eyes, and his fingers are flying across the keyboard like a caffeinated hummingbird on a mission. We swear, it’s like watching a toddler discovering the joy of finger painting – except Travis is knee-deep in HTML, or SQL, or whatever that tech garble is. Don’t ask us!

The best part? Travis is also a closet beader! A natural-born crafter, not that you’d ever guess that at first glance. Get ready for some of the quirkiest posts you’ve ever laid eyes on. From bead-based life hacks to crystal-themed interpretive dance routines (don’t ask, just enjoy), Travis is here to sprinkle a little joy into your crafting journey.

So, buckle up, Beads N Crystals fans, because you’re in for a wild ride in 2024. Travis is here to make your crafting experience a tad more adventurous, a lot more amusing, and just a smidge less predictable. But fear not! Behind that slightly tousled hair is a guy with a heart of gold and a secret genius waiting to be unleashed.

Stay tuned for the misadventures of Travis, the crafty Web Wizard (sort of) of Beads N Crystals. You won’t want to miss a single click, crash, or giggle. Happy crafting, and may your beads be ever in your favour!

Live, Love, Laugh & Loom a Leather Lariat,
the Beads N Crystals Team

See! We’re not ‘that’ kind of bead shop!

Hey there bead addicts! It’s Travis here, I’m the new techie work experience guy and I’ll be helping clear up a few beading myths and helping to make beading fun!

Ever wondered why your favorite crystal brands, like Preciosa and Swarovski, love to pack things in weird numbers? I mean, why 144 in a box? Sounds “gross” right!? No, it’s not because they’re secretly trying to gross you out – it’s all about the art and science of crystal packaging, and I’m here to break it down for you in a way that’s anything but “gross”!

So, first things first, what exactly is a “gross”? Well, it’s not that weird kid in the back of the class sticking chewing gum under the desk – it’s a unit of measurement, and in the beading and crystal world, it means a dozen dozens, or 144 to be exact. Now, I know what you’re thinking – why not just say 144? Why make this extra confusing with a word that sounds like it belongs in the biology room?

Quick note here, that’s a dozen regular dozens, not a dozen bakers dozens, or a dozen beaders dozens. That’d be just stupid! Not to mention confusing!

Let’s make this whole thing crystal clear (pun intended)! Packaging crystals by the gross isn’t about confusing you, it’s about making the lives of the crystal gods and the end customers a whole lot easier. Think of it as the crystal community’s way of saying, “Let’s keep it simple, stupid!”

Dividing by 12 is a piece of cake or should I say, crystal? (Sorry, couldn’t resist!) There’s a reason we have dozens in many aspects of our lives. It’s easy to count, easy to divide, and it just makes sense. I mean, could you imagine a carton of 11 eggs, or 5 for that matter. It just wouldn’t work.

When you buy crystals in bulk, especially when you’re planning some serious bling for your DIY projects, having them neatly packaged in dozens and gross makes the process a breeze.

Now, here comes the magic of multiplication. If you’ve ever wondered why crystal brands seem to be obsessed with packing small flat back diamantes and bicones in packs of 1440 (which is a gross times 10), it’s because it’s a game-changer! When you’re working on large-scale projects, having crystals in this magical “mass” of 1440 means you can easily calculate how many dozens you need without breaking a sweat.

Imagine this: you’re bedazzling a dance costume, and you need 10 dozen crystals. Instead of tediously counting each crystal, you can just grab a pack, knowing that it contains 1440 sparkly diamantes, and voilà, you have your 10 dozen without the headache. It’s like crystal maths for dummies!

So, the next time you come across crystal packaging boasting a gross or 1440, embrace it! It’s not meant to be “gross” or confusing – it’s a crystal-clear system that simplifies your DIY adventures and keeps the sparkle in your projects. Best part is, they divide evenly down into dozens, sixes and 3’s. Bonus, they’re also even so pairs are a given!

Remember, crystals are all about bringing joy and beauty into your life, not making it grossly confusing. So, here’s to the “not as gross as you think” world of little crystals. Those Czech and Austrian crystal lords are smarter than they may seem!

Quick recap before you go:

• Dozen = 12
• Gross = 144 (12 dozen)
• Mass = 1440 (10 gross, or 120 dozen)
• All these numbers are even, and they all divide by 3, the beaders magic number!

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

UPDATED 30/12/23:

Our phone lines have been restored today. We thank all of our customers for their patience during the repairs caused by the recent storms. We’re all back to normal now.

Previous Post:

Hello Bead-lover Family!

Haven’t we been though a crazy few days! We hope you’re safe, well and not too badly affected by this crazy weather we’ve been having. We’re all safe and well with just a minor casualty. Our inbound phone lines are down until further notice. We still have internet, power and a roof, so all is good. We’re processing orders as normal!

Good news! Our post-Christmas Boxing Day sales are still ON, and we’re trading as normal! Despite the stormy weather causing a hiccup with our phone lines, don’t stress! We’re still here and ready to make your shopping experience amazing.

Online orders? No problem! We’re processing and dispatching them faster than ever. So, even if the wind’s howling outside, your orders are sailing smoothly to you.

Our doors are wide open for our Boxing Day sales this Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 3pm, and the welcome mat is out. Come on in and catch some fantastic deals!

Psst, can’t reach us by phone? No worries! For any inquiries, shoot us an email or book a carrier pigeon (just kidding, use email!). We’re here for you, storm or shine.

Thanks for being part of the Beads N Crystals family. We’re making these Boxing Day sales a ripper just for you!

Cheers,
The Beads N Crystals Team

In the ever-evolving world of jewellery crafting, choosing the right materials is key to creating not only stunning pieces but also ensuring comfort for the wearer. One shining star in the realm of findings is surgical stainless steel, and today, we’re diving deep into its brilliance and the hypoallergenic benefits that make it a game-changer for jewellery enthusiasts.

1. The Stainless-Steel Symphony: A Primer

Stainless steel is more than just a robust alloy; it’s a symphony of durability, versatility, and sleek aesthetics. Comprising iron, chromium, and other alloying elements, stainless steel boasts corrosion resistance, making it an ideal candidate for various applications. In jewellery, its popularity has soared, particularly in findings like clasps, ear wires, and jump rings.

2. The Hypoallergenic Marvel: A Relief for Sensitive Skin

One of stainless steel’s standout features is its hypoallergenic nature. For individuals with sensitive skin prone to irritation or allergic reactions, stainless steel findings act as a gentle saviour. Unlike materials that may contain traces of nickel or other allergens, high-quality stainless steel is known for causing minimal to no skin reactions, making it a perfect choice for those with sensitive ears or skin.

3. Corrosion Resistance: Enduring Beauty

Ever had a favorite piece of jewellery lose its lustre due to tarnishing or corrosion? Stainless steel findings wave goodbye to such worries. Their inherent corrosion resistance ensures that your creations maintain their sheen, even after prolonged wear. This characteristic is especially crucial for items like clasps and earring backs that often come into contact with skin and moisture.

4. Durability Beyond Compare: Jewellery That Lasts

Stainless steel findings are the unsung heroes when it comes to crafting durable jewellery. Their robust nature ensures that your creations withstand the tests of time, resisting scratches, dents, and the wear-and-tear of everyday life. For pieces that are meant to be cherished for years, stainless steel findings provide the structural integrity needed for longevity.

5. Budget-Friendly Elegance: Affordable Luxury

Creating exquisite jewellery doesn’t have to break the bank. Stainless steel findings offer an affordable alternative to pricier materials without compromising on elegance. Crafters can indulge in the luxury of creating high-quality, budget-friendly pieces that radiate sophistication.

6. Design Freedom: Versatility Unleashed

Stainless steel findings open up a world of design possibilities. Their neutral and timeless appearance complements a wide range of materials, from gemstones to glass beads. Whether you’re crafting a classic necklace, bohemian earrings, or a modern bracelet, stainless steel findings seamlessly integrate into diverse design aesthetics.

7. Environmental Friendliness: A Green Choice

For eco-conscious crafters, stainless steel findings present a sustainable choice. The durability of stainless-steel means less frequent replacements, reducing the environmental impact associated with disposable or short-lived jewellery components.

In conclusion, stainless steel findings emerge not only as durable and visually appealing but as champions of hypoallergenic jewellery crafting. Elevate your creations with the resilience and elegance of stainless steel, ensuring that your masterpieces not only dazzle the eye but also comfort the skin. Embrace the brilliance – stainless steel findings are here to redefine your jewellery-making journey.