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VIP Specials – March 2024

VIP Card 2024 at Beads N Crystals

Gold VIP – Exclusive Club for Serious Beaders

VIP Membership 2024

Welcome to our MARCH VIP OFFERS FOR 2024

Happy March! Can you believe we’ve already kicked off the third month of our VIP 2024 program? Hold onto your hats because we’ve got some super exciting updates and exclusive offers just for you!

Drumroll, please… introducing your third freebie of the year: a fabulous strand of 8mm red sponge coral beads! These beauties aren’t just eye candy; they’re like a burst of creative energy for your crafting adventures.

But hey, the party doesn’t stop there! Brace yourselves for our third mega deal of the year, exclusively for our VIP crew. Get ready to snag a jaw-dropping 40% off on findings and more. It’s like a shopping spree dream come true!

Big thanks for being a rockstar VIP member – your flair for creativity keeps us buzzing, and we’re pumped to keep this adventure rolling with you. Dive into these exclusive offers and let the good times roll!

Happy Beading,

The Beads N Crystals Team

March VIP Free Gift

A Strand of 8mm Round Red Sponge Coral Beads valued at $16!

For centuries, red coral beads have been a symbol of opulence and wealth. The typical process was to dive into reefs and hack the coral out. This is not ‘that’ kind of coral! This is Sponge Coral, also known as sea sponge or bamboo coral. Unlike the hard red coral used in traditional coral beads, sponge coral has a softer, porous structure that resembles the texture of natural sea sponges.

Most hard coral beads of the past are no longer available as the harvesting of sea coral is generally illegal, and obviously has a devastating effect on reef ecosystems. Our sponge coral beads are made of specifically grown sponge coral from specialist farms. This means there are no harsh ecological effects on sea reefs caused by the production of our beads.

This month, VIP members get a strand of ethically sourced Sponge Coral beads (a $16 total value) for FREE month with any purchase of $10 or more.

This brings the total value of gifts for 2024 to $68, and we’re only in month 3!

March VIP Discount

40% Off Findings, Clasps, Bezels & Cabochons
Including Sterling Silver & Gold Findings!

40% OFF FINDINGS
Includes ALL Bezel Settings & Cabochons
PLUS ALL Sterling Silver & Gold Findings

It’s time to get your projects finished with our great range of high quality findings. Clasps to complete bracelets and necklaces, ear hooks and pins for earrings, Jump rings, bails and bezels to complete your designs. They’re all on sale at 40% off.

This sale includes loose findings and bulk packets, brass, iron, copper, sterling silver, gold filled and more.

Magnetic clasps are a must-have and at 40% off how can you resist? Make the absolute most of your VIP membership by stocking up on the findings you’ll need for the next 8 months, and you’ll never need to pay full price! (Remember, in December, you can use this deal again!)

As a VIP you’ll earn FULL POINTS on all of these specials. So even though it’s 40% off, you earn the full points as though you’d paid full price! Give your points a HUGE Boost with this deep discount and extra points. Don’t miss out on the chance to stock up on premium crafting materials and turn your artistic visions into reality.

The sale includes over 2000 products:

ALL FINDINGS includes everything in our FINDINGS Categories: such as bails, bead caps, bead cones, bookmarks, brooch and badge backs, clasps, magnetic clasps, cogs, crimps & crimp covers, wire guardians, cufflinks, daisy spacers, decorative rings, dread crimps, dreamcatcher rings, ear hooks, headpins, end caps, filigree components, hair combs, jump rings & split rings, keychains, spectacle ends, swivels, rondelles (excluding Swarovski & Preciosa), sliders, spacer bars, and tassels.

STERLING SILVER AND GOLD FINDINGS includes findings only. Beads, jewellery, wire and chains are not included. Gold includes Gold Filled and Vermeil Gold.

Not for use with special or clearance prices or other discounts.

How To Order Online with 40% OFF

VIP Members, please place your order and select “Direct Bank Deposit” as the payment option at checkout. We’ll apply your discounts, add your free gifts and advise the new discounted total. Please don’t pay until we’ve confirmed the discounted total.

Exclusive Monthly Specials – March

Each month we release some exclusive specials just for VIP members.

Organza Bags 10pk

We have four different options on sale for VIP’s this month. Choose from gold hearts on pink, gold butterflies on black, gold hearts on black, or gold flowers on sky-blue (shown).

7x9cm to 10x12cm sizes.

Normally $7.70 – $8.00 per pack
VIP Deal – $4 Per Pack

Easter Bunny with Egg Charm 10x18mm

These cute little Easter bunnies are double-sided so they’re perfect for earrings and charm bracelets. They are small enough for the lightest and most petite jewellery yet thye have amazing detail.

Normally $0.30 /pc
VIP Price – 10 for $1

Easter Egg Charms

We have four designs in these cute little Easter egg charms. Brilliant gold accents with colourful hand-enameled artwork make these stand out as earrings or a pendant on a fine chain. They’re also great additions to friendship bracelets.

Normally $1.60 each
VIP Price $0.80

Heart Pendant

Our large puff heart pendants look great on their own or as an addition to your beaded creations. Whether you’re looking to top off a gemstone beaded necklace, or just after a simple pendant to hang from a fine chain, these beautiful heart pendants are luxe in appearance and work perfectly with Autumn or Easter inspired jewellery.

Normally $8
VIP Price $4

How do the free gifts work?

Every month we’ll have a free gift available for VIP members. The gift can be collected or sent with any order of $10 or more of any products, discounted or not! So, if you selected $18 worth of findings in March, the 40% off would bring them down to just $10.80, and that purchase would qualify for the free gift!

Each VIP member can collect one gift each month. The percent off can be used as many times as you like in the calendar month. No limits!

How do the discounts work for Online orders?

Simply add the items you want to cart, check out using the “Direct Bank Deposit” option to send the order unpaid. Be sure to either log-in or enter the email address we have on file at checkout, so we know you’re a VIP. Once we receive and pick your order, we’ll throw in the free gift and reply back with the adjusted invoice with all the discounts applied. You can then pay any way you like, PayPal, ZipPay, credit card or bank transfer.

Not a VIP? Join Now to Start Saving Big Time!

VIP Card 2024 at Beads N Crystals
Join VIP 2024 for over $240 in free gifts and 12 HUGE Discounts!

Become a Bead Lover GOLD VIP Member today to start saving and being rewarded! For the small investment of just $29, you’ll be entitled to receive a free gift of beads every month of 2023. You’ll also save big time with our huge monthly VIP special discount. These discounts are unlimited so you can order as little or as much as you want, as many times as you like in the calendar month.

Join VIP 2024

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Crafting Beyond the Concert: Creative Ideas for Leftover Beads from the Taylor Swift Craze!

Hey there, Swifties! Travis here, ready to help you turn those leftover crafting supplies from your Taylor Swift-inspired friendship bracelets into new and exciting creations. Let’s dive into some creative crafting ideas that will put those beads, cords, and threads to good use!

Did you find yourself knee-deep in beads after creating those fabulous friendship bracelets for the Taylor Swift concert? Wondering what to do with the leftover supplies now that the concert buzz is settling down? Fear not! We’ve got you covered with a treasure trove of creative crafting ideas to make the most out of those extra beads. From personalised keychains to boho beaded anklets, there’s no shortage of ways to turn your leftover treasures into new and exciting creations. Let’s dive in and give those beads a second life filled with creativity and charm!

1. Personalised Keychains:

Use your leftover letter beads to spell out initials, names, or meaningful words on beading wire or elastic cords. Add colourful spacer beads for a pop of personality, finish it off with a keychain finding and voila – you’ve got custom keychains to gift to friends or attach to your backpack!

2. Boho Beaded Anklets:

String together leftover spacer beads and colourful discs on elastic cord to create trendy boho-inspired anklets. Mix and match colours and patterns to match your summer wardrobe and add a touch of Swiftie flair to your beach look.

3. Music-Inspired Bookmarks:

Channel your love for Taylor Swift’s iconic songs into handmade bookmarks. String together letter beads to spell out your favorite song lyrics or album titles, and embellish with coordinating spacer beads. Hang them off a bookmark finding and you’re all done! It’s a fun way to keep your place in your favorite reads while paying homage to your favorite artist.

4. Inspirational Quote Bracelets:

Get inspired by Taylor Swift’s empowering lyrics and create bracelets featuring uplifting quotes or messages. Use a mix of letter beads and colourful spacers to spell out words like “Fearless,” “Brave,” or “Kindness.” Wear them as a daily reminder to stay strong and true to yourself.

5. Pet Collar Charms:

Treat your furry friends to some Swiftie style with homemade pet collar charms. Spell out their names or nicknames using leftover letter beads, and add cute spacer beads for extra flair. Attach them to their collars for a touch of personalised bling.

6. Upcycled Hair Accessories:

Give plain hair ties or clips a makeover with leftover beads and cords. Wrap elastic cords or wrapping wire around hair ties and thread on colourful spacer beads for a bohemian-chic vibe. Or glue letter beads onto bobby pins to create custom hair accessories featuring your favorite Swiftie phrases.

7. Donation Station Reminder:

Remember, if you find yourself with more supplies than you can craft with, don’t let them go to waste! Consider donating your leftover beads, cords, and threads to our Crafting Sustainability recycling bin in-store. Your generosity will help support local schools and charities, providing them with much-needed crafting supplies to spark creativity in the community community.

So there you have it, Swifties – a plethora of crafting ideas to keep the creativity flowing long after Tay Tay flies off into the sunset after the final concert in Australia. Let’s turn those leftover supplies into new treasures and spread the love of crafting far and wide! Keep on crafting, and remember, every bead tells a story.

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

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Discover 8 Must-Know Findings Hacks for Stunning Jewellery Designs!

Hey there, bead buddies! Travis here, your crafty companion and resident Website Wizard at Beads N Crystals. Today, we’re delving into the underrated world of jewellery findings – those magical little components that hold our creations together and make them shine! But wait, there’s more! I’ve also sprinkled in some cost-saving hacks to help you stretch your crafting budget further. Let’s dive in!

Lets demystify the term “findings.” In our crafty world of jewellery making, findings are like the unsung heroes – they’re the essential components that bring your creations together. Think of them as the nuts and bolts of your jewellery projects. Findings encompass a wide range of small but crucial pieces, think clasps, jump rings, ear wires, head pins, crimps, and more. They’re what you use to connect different elements of your design, secure closures, and add those finishing touches that make your pieces shine.

So, whether you’re crafting earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or any other type of jewellery, you’ll likely find yourself reaching for findings to complete your masterpiece. They may be small, but they play a big role in ensuring your creations are both beautiful and functional. They’re not only essential, they can be used to add a pop of creativity to your designs too!

The Magic of Jewellery Findings: Unlocking Your Creativity:

First things first, let’s talk about the unsung heroes of jewellery making – findings! From clasps and jump rings to ear wires and crimp beads, these tiny treasures are the backbone of our creations. They not only keep everything in place but also add that finishing touch of elegance. So, let your creativity soar as you explore the endless possibilities of jewellery findings!

Hack #1: Multipurpose Jump Rings – One Ring to Rule Them All:

Say goodbye to cluttered craft drawers! Did you know that jump rings can be manipulated and re-sized? Plus they can double as connectors for multiple strands of beads? Simply manipulate the shape of larger jump rings using your round nose pliers and trim the excess to make a ring a size or two. Bend a jump ring so there are two V shapes pointing in toward each other. Manipulate the ring and the V shapes so that the points almost touch, leaving you with an almost figure-8-shaped wire. This new connector you’ve created can be used to hold a two-strand bracelet together at intervals in your design.

Hack #2: DIY Ear Wires – Turning Ordinary into Extraordinary:

Turn your styles up a notch with homemade ear wires! All you need is some sturdy wire and a pair of round-nose pliers. By crafting your own ear wires, you not only customise the style but also cut down on costs compared to purchasing pre-made ones. Some craft wire in a 20 or 22 gauge and a wire jig will make this process a breeze.

Hack #3: Creative Clasp Alternatives:

Don’t limit yourself to traditional clasps! Get creative with alternative closure options such as toggle clasps, magnetic clasps, or even decorative buttons. These unique closures not only add visual interest to your designs but also offer practicality and ease of use. Make your own clasps using a ring of seed beads and a stick pearl as a toggle, or wrap your own wire s-hooks.

Hack #4: Clasp Upgrade – From Basic to Bling:

Give your designs a touch of luxury without breaking the bank! Transform basic clasps into dazzling closures by embellishing them with small Swarovski crystals or seed beads. It’s a cost-effective way to add a hint of glamour to your creations.

Wire Guardians Example

Hack #5: Wire Guardians – The Unsung Heroes of Durability:

Protect your stringing material and prevent wear and tear with wire guardians. These small findings may seem insignificant, but they play a crucial role in extending the lifespan of your jewellery pieces. Plus, they add a professional finish to your designs.

Hack #6: Bulk Buying Bonanza – Saving in Style:

Stock up on your favorite findings by purchasing in bulk! Many of our products have additional quantity discounts, allowing you to save money in the long run. Just make sure to store them properly to prevent tarnish and damage. VIP members and wholesale clients have access to great additional savings on findings too.

Hack #7: Repurpose and Recreate – Finding New Life in Old Findings:

Get creative with your findings by repurposing old or broken jewellery pieces. Salvage clasps, jump rings, and other components to breathe new life into your designs. It’s eco-friendly and budget-friendly – a win-win!

For any crafting pieces you can’t make use of, give them a new life through a range of community groups via our craft recycling bin.

So there you have it, bead addicts – a treasure trove of jewellery findings wisdom paired with some savvy cost-saving hacks. Now go forth and craft with confidence, knowing that you’ve got the skills and smarts to create stunning jewellery pieces without breaking the bank.

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

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Heart-to-Heart Crafting: A Sparkling Swarovski Love Affair for Valentine’s Day!

Hey, fabulous bead enthusiasts! Travis in the house – your go-to craft maestro and lover of all things sparkly. Guess what’s approaching at warp speed? Yep, you got it—Valentine’s Day! And I’m here to guide you on an epic journey to create the most dazzling, heartwarming gifts imaginable.

1. Dive into the World of Swarovski Hearts:

Brace yourself for a glittering adventure! Our Swarovski crystal heart pendants are a symphony of charm, coming in various shapes and sizes. Whether you fancy a delicate dazzler or a bold centrepiece, our heart collection has your creative cravings covered. There are also Swarovski heart beads and the famous Love bead along with many other gorgeous pendants.

As you know, they’re all out of production and off the market, so for a truly rare and exclusive gift, grab a heart to steal a heart before they’re gone forever! Don’t actually steal though, the boss has cameras and he’s onto it! We don’t want anyone sentenced to love as they say!

2. Mix and Match with Crystal Beads:

Ready to take your creation to the next level? Explore the universe of possibilities by mixing Swarovski crystal hearts with our stunning crystal beads. It’s like curating your own love story in crystal form—each piece complementing the other in perfect harmony.

Rose Quartz is the stone of unconditional love, promoting compassion, tenderness and emotional healing. If the pink is a little wishy-washy for you, turn it up a notch with rich purple amethyst. It’s said to foster deep connections and understanding between partners. To ignite passion, sensuality and commitment, consider red garnet, or to promote feminine energy and intuition, moonstone is your go-to.

3. Sterling Silver Chains – Because Every Heart Deserves a Home:

Now, let’s talk real estate for your sparkly treasures. Our sterling silver chains aren’t just accessories; they’re the VIP suites for your crystals. Choose a chain that speaks to your heart (pun intended) and gives your creation the showcase it deserves. If you’re simply hanging a single heart, the can be no more elegant look than a simple silver chain.

On the other hand, if you’re hooked on gems or other beads, Flex-Rite beading wire is the best option for stringing a necklace. Drop in to our bead shop and we’ll hook you up with the essentials to turn your vision into reality!

4. Gift Boxes, Because Presentation is Everything:

You know what they say – presentation is key! Show off your crafted masterpiece in our elegant gift boxes. It’s not just a box; it’s the grand entrance your creation deserves. Unwrapping it becomes an experience, building anticipation and excitement.

5. Heart Stickers and Sequins – Because More Sparkle, More Love:

What’s a crafting adventure without a playful tough? Sprinkle extra love and sparkle with our heart stickers and sequins. It’s like adding a dash of magic dust to your creation, making it truly enchanting.

6. Crafting Date Night – Because Why Not?:

Turn your crafting session into a romantic date night! Grab some delectable snacks, cue up your favorite tunes, and let the creativity flow. Crafting together not only doubles the fun but also creates cherished memories.

8. Share the Love – Social Media Style:

Spread the joy! Once your creation is complete, flaunt it on social media. Tag us, share your crafting journey, and inspire others to embark on their own beading adventure. It’s like creating a ripple effect of love and creativity.

So, my bead buddies, gear up for a Valentine’s Day crafting escapade filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of sparkle. Dive into our Swarovski wonderland before it’s gone forever, grab your tools, and let the crafting magic unfold. Because nothing says “I love you” like a handcrafted crystal creation straight from the heart. Happy crafting and may your Valentine’s Day be as radiant as your crystal balls!

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

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VIP Specials – February 2024

VIP Card 2024 at Beads N Crystals

Gold VIP – Exclusive Club for Serious Beaders

VIP Membership 2024

Welcome to our FEBRUARY VIP OFFERS FOR 2024

Happy February! We can’t believe it’s already the second month of our VIP 2024 program, and we’re thrilled to share some exciting updates and exclusive offers with you.

We’re delighted to present your second free gift – two strands of beautifully crafted pressed turquoise beads. These beads are not only aesthetically pleasing but also a versatile addition to your crafting repertoire.

But that’s not all – prepare to be amazed! We’ve rolled out the second extraordinary deal of the year – exclusively for our VIP members. Enjoy a spectacular 50% off on a wide array of glass beads, polymer clay beads, and wood beads. This is your chance to indulge in your creative pursuits without breaking the bank.

We’re celebrating National Taylor Swift Month! With her concerts just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start crafting your own personalised friendship bracelets. Dive into our 50% off sale where you’ll find letter beads included, ensuring your creations are as bright as your love of all things TayTay! And for that extra touch of sparkle, don’t miss out on the fantastic deal we have on sparkly metallic elastic cord packs.

Thank you for being a valued VIP member – your creativity inspires us, and we’re excited to continue this journey with you. Make the most of these exclusive offers and let your imagination run wild!

Best regards,

The Beads N Crystals Team

How do the discounts work for Online orders?

Simply add the items you want to cart, check out using the “Direct Bank Deposit” option to send the order unpaid. Be sure to either log-in or enter the email address we have on file at checkout, so we know you’re a VIP. Once we receive and pick your order, we’ll throw in the free gift and reply back with the adjusted invoice with all the discounts applied. You can then pay any way you like, PayPal, ZipPay, credit card or bank transfer.

How do the free gifts work?

Every month we’ll have a free gift available for VIP members. The gift can be collected or sent with any order of $10 or more of any products, discounted or not! So, if you selected $20 worth of glass beads in February, the 50% off would bring them down to just $10, and that purchase would qualify for the free gift!

Each VIP member can collect one gift each month. The percent off can be used as many times as you like in the calendar month. No limits!

February VIP Free Gift

2 Strands of Pressed Turquoise Beads valued at $16!

Pressed turquoise beads are made from compressed turquoise. Natural turquoise is a fairly expensive semi-precious gemstone known for its distinctive blue-green colour and has been used in jewellery for centuries. Pressed turquoise beads are created by taking small chips or powder of turquoise and combining them with a binding agent. The mixture is then pressed into bead shapes and often treated to enhance the colour and stability.

These beads can come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different jewellery designs. Pressed turquoise beads are valued for their affordability compared to the more expensive natural turquoise, while still providing a vibrant and attractive appearance.

VIP members get TWO strands for FREE (a $16 total value) this month with any purchase of $10 or more. Supplied at random from available stock, or select styles from the rack in-store.

This brings the total value of gifts for 2024 to $52, and we’re only in month 2!

February VIP Discount

50% Off Wood, Porcelain, Glass, Clay & Letter Beads

50% OFF Glass Beads, Polymer Clay Beads, Letter Beads and Wood Beads!

It’s officially TAYTAY MONTH and Beads N Crystals and we’re celebrating with 50% OFF the beads you NEED to make friendship bracelets!

Prepare for a crafting extravaganza like never before! We’re thrilled to present your February VIP discount. Dive into our February festivities with a huge 50% off sale on a vast assortment of glass beads, polymer clay beads, and wood beads. It’s not just a sale; it’s an opportunity to craft to your heart’s content without compromising on quality.

As a VIP you’ll earn FULL POINTS on all of these specials. So even though it’s 50% off, you earn the full points as though you’d paid full price! Give your points a HUGE Boost with this deep discount and extra points. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or just beginning your crafting journey, this unprecedented offer is tailor-made to fuel your passion and inspire endless possibilities. Don’t miss out on the chance to stock up on premium crafting materials and turn your artistic visions into reality.

If you’re a closet Swiftie, or an outright Taylor fanatic, this is your month! Grab everything you need to make friendship stretch bracelets and take 50% Off the price of the letter beads and polymer clay beads, including bulk bags! Happy crafting!

The sale includes these categories:

Excludes BK401 (the $6 /strand or 4 for $20 wall), kits, glass crystal, seed beads, and already reduced lines.

How To Order Online with 50% OFF

VIP Members, please place your order and select “Direct Bank Deposit” as the payment option at checkout. We’ll apply your discounts, add your free gifts and advise the new discounted total. Please don’t pay until we’ve confirmed the discounted total.

Exclusive Monthly Specials – February

Each month we release some exclusive specials just for VIP members.

8mm Magnetic Clasp

These antique silver magnetic clasps are strong and simple. Simple in design, application and use. Just what you need to make easy-to-wear necklaces and bracelets. Whether you’re using Flex-Rite Tiger Tail, S-Lon, Hemp or Silk, these clasps will make it a breeze to put on and remove your jewellery with just one hand.

Normally $2.50 each
VIP Deal – 10 for $10
or $1.50 each

Pastel Metallic Stretch Cord Assortment Pack

This elastic is similar to hat elastic. A stretchy core hidden inside a braided cord. The metallic sparkle colours make these cords perfect for fun friendship bracelets.

Pack includes a total of 22.9m of stretch cord across five colours. Cord diameter 0.8mm. Simply thread and tie to create amazing fun and funky jewellery!

Normally $11 /pack
VIP Price – $7

AAA Grade Aquamarine Chips Beads

AAA-grade Aquamarine Chip Beads are high-quality gemstone beads that exhibit excellent colour, clarity, and overall quality. Sold by the strand of 87cm, there are plenty of beads for a long necklace, a lariat, or 2-3 bracelets.

Normally $25.
VIP Price $12

Not a VIP? Join Now to Start Saving Big Time!

VIP Card 2024 at Beads N Crystals
Join VIP 2024 for over $240 in free gifts and 12 HUGE Discounts!

Become a Bead Lover GOLD VIP Member today to start saving and being rewarded! For the small investment of just $29, you’ll be entitled to receive a free gift of beads every month of 2023. You’ll also save big time with our huge monthly VIP special discount. These discounts are unlimited so you can order as little or as much as you want, as many times as you like in the calendar month.

Join VIP 2024

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Craft Wizardry Unveiled: 12 Ingenious Tool Hacks for Beading Bliss!

Hey there, fellow bead wizards! It’s your crafty conjurer, Travis, at Beads N Crystals. Today, I’m letting you in on some magical secrets to enhance your beading journey. Brace yourselves for 12 ingenious tool hacks that will have you beading with the finesse of a true wizard!

1. Pliers with Extra Grip:

Nylon pliers are great for keeping your wire and metal components scratch-free, but it’s not always practical to buy new tools to complete a single task. Add a touch of cushioning to your pliers by wrapping the jaws with a small piece of rubber, painters tape or foam. It not only provides extra grip but also protects delicate wires and beads from scratches.

2. Needle Sharpness Revival:

When your beading needles start feeling a bit dull, revive their sharpness by gently rubbing them against fine sandpaper. Say goodbye to snagging and hello to smoother beading!

3. Store your Needles for Safety and Simplicity

There are so many different types of needles. Do you find that after a project your needles all migrate to the one place and it’s next to impossible to distinguish which is which? Simple fix: use your empty seed bead tubes to sort and store your needles! Peel off the label and use a Sharpie to write the needle type and size on each tube. A simple rubber band to keep the tubes together, and your needle woes are sorted!

Side note: if you have more empty tubes than needles, don’t throw them out! We offer a tube credit scheme as part of our commitment to Crafting Sustainability!

4. Anti-Slip Pliers Grip:

If you’ve got old tools with split or missing handle grips, but they have a little life left in them, try this!  Wrap the handles with rubber bands or heat-shrink tubing for a comfortable and anti-slip grip. Your hands will thank you during those extended crafting sessions.

5. Colour Code your Tools:

Grab an assortment pack of coloured electrical insulation tapes. You (or someone you know) will probably have something laying around from that time you tried to DIY some home electrical repairs. Highly NOT recommended! Don’t you remember Dumb Ways to Die? Only the best commercial ever made! Anyway, wrap a little tape around the handles of your tools to colour code them. It makes grabbing side cutters while avoiding needle nose pliers much easier! Simple but effective!

6. Secure Thread Burner Caps:

Prevent accidental burns by securing the safety cap of your thread burner or thread zapper with a small binder clip. Safety first, bead second! Well, I originally wrote “bead first, safety second”, but our lawyer suggested rewording it… Buzzkill much?

7. Magnetic Mini Storage Magic:

Attach a small magnet to the inside of your mini storage containers. It becomes a magnetic haven for your needles and tiny metal findings, ensuring they stay put.

Bonus tip: Use a magnet to ensure there are no metal fragments in the wrong places in your beads or tool kits.

8. Measuring Tape Bead Counter

Get a fine-tip Sharpie and a measuring tape. Line up a row of ten 4mm beads and mark it on the measuring tape. Do this for the lengths of the sizes you use most to make counting and estimating beads for a project super easy. Do the same with markings for the lengths of your favoutite bracelet sizes so you’ll always thread the right number of beads every time.

9. DIY Sticky Bead Mat:

Us seed beaders love a good sticky bead mat, don’t we! They keep those little Delica’s and size 15’s in check with their voodoo-grade sticky surface. But what do you do when you awaken at 3am and dive into seed beads like a maniac if there’s no sticky bead mat in sight? Simple, stick a piece of double-sided tape to your desk or bead mat, or mouse pad if you’re really having a bad morning! Say goodbye to runaway beads and hello to hassle-free beading. Even if you can’t keep your eyes open!

10. Candle Wax Thread Conditioner

Thread Heaven is a thing of the past. There are substitutes, like Bees Wax and Thread Magic, but again, at 3am after being awoken from a dream of beading, as if I have a chance of finding my Thread Magic! Simple fix, Nanna’s favourite vintage candle! No! That’s not right! The cheap candle you couldn’t put back at Kmart because it smelled like chocolate crackles! Run your thread across the candle wax to condition and prevent knotting and tangles. It works pretty well, not perfect but definitely not terrible!

11. Easy Needle Threading:

Again, you could buy a needle threader to make threading a breeze, but seriously. I’ve bought a dozen of them and I still can’t find one when I need it! Introducing Dental Floss! It’s flat, slippery, fairly rigid and has a minty aroma! What more could you need? It threads easily through a needle, then form a loop and pull your thread through. It’s not as good as a needle threader, but still much more effective than swearing at the needle!

12. Easy Beading Thread Cutter

Side cutters are great for wire and tiger-tail, but they are no match for the mighty Fireline and NYMO. How can that be? Try it for yourself! Needleworkers threads are treated with Harry Potter’s magic making them invincible to anything other than a sharp thread cutter.

Jump back to step 11, where we just spend endless hours sliding dental floss through various needles to compare how much minty aroma stuck to the needle. The floss box is empty now right? Look at that! A thread cutter, and… it CUTS Fireline! AND NYMO!! “Finite Incantatem!” (waves plastic HP wand I’m not ashamed to have on my craft table.)

There you have it, bead wizards – 12 crafty tool hacks to make your beading game a little more fun. Try them out and watch as your crafting experience transforms into a magical journey of creativity and ease. Happy beading, and may your tools be forever in your favour!

Oh, one last final tip. There isn’t always a hack substitute for every beading and crafting tool. But luckily, you’ve found a really good bead shop with every tool you can imagine. Check them out, they’re all online!

Get your Bead-Fix and Chill!
Travis out

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Bajkal Seed Beaded Earrings Beading Project

Embark on a beading adventure with our Bajkal Earrings project that promises a perfect blend of challenge and creativity! Geared towards intermediate skill levels, this project introduces a medley of techniques, including Circular Peyote, Herringbone, Picot, and Right Angle Weave. Dive into the intricate world of beadwork as you employ a mix of size 8, size 15, size 11 seed beads, and size 11 Delica seed beads to craft these stunning earrings. Get ready to challenge your beading skills and fashion a pair of earrings that not only showcase your craftsmanship but also add a touch of elegance to any ensemble. Let’s bead it up and bring the Bajkal Earrings to life!

Materials:

0.5g Size 15 Seed Beads
0.5g Size 11 Seed Beads
1.0g Size 8 Seed Beads
1.0g Size 11 Miyuki Delicas
2 x 5mm Open Jump Rings
Pair of Ear Wires
4lb Fireline
Size 12 Beading Needle
– Scissors, Pliers

Download PDF Instructions to Print

Project is courtesy of our friends at The BeadSmith. Please respect the artist’s copyright and limitations which are advised in the footer of the attached PDF copy. These instructions for personal use only and are not to be taught in a workshop environment. Instructions remain the property of the artist and must not be printed for sale or redistributed. The completed project must not be produced in quantity for sale.

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VIP Specials – January 2024

VIP Card 2024 at Beads N Crystals

Gold VIP – Exclusive Club for Serious Beaders

VIP Membership 2024

Welcome to GOLD VIP 2024

Welcome to Gold VIP 2024 – our famous ultimate perks membership program. We’re embracing the Pantone colour of the year, Apricot Crush. It’s the colour of care, connection and community, as well as bringing an optimistic luminosity to the new year.

This year VIP members will be offered 12 amazing free gifts as well as 11 huge discounts with 30-50% off almost our whole range of products. December Double Dip is back so you can relax, sit back with a glass of ice-cold apricot crush, and let the FOMO fly off with the breeze! Miss a month? No worries! You can use any or all discounts in December!

There will also be some special exclusive deals every month just for VIP members. Some deals may have purchase limits. Plus our new guy, Travis, will also send a monthly email with a project, inspiration and other fun tips to keep you ahead of the game.

So how do the discounts work?

For in-store customers, it’s super simple. Give us your phone number to bring up your account and we’ll take the percent off. Easy.

For online customers, simply add the items you want to cart, check out using the “Direct Bank Deposit” option to send the order unpaid. Once we receive and pick your order, we’ll throw in the free gift and reply back with the adjusted invoice with all the discounts applied. You can then pay any way you like, PayPal, credit card or bank transfer.

How do the free gifts work?

For every month of 2024, we’ll have a free gift available for VIP members. The gift can be collected or sent with any order of $10 or more of any products, discounted or not!

So, if you selected $20 worth of glass beads in February, the 50% off would bring them down to just $10, and that purchase would qualify for the free gift! Each and every free gift will be valued at more than $10! In fact, the total value of all 12 will be way over $200!

Each VIP member can collect one gift each month. The percent off can be used as many times as you like in the calendar month.

Monthly VIP Emails

You’ll receive an email every month within the first few days with the details of the VIP gift and special buys. The follow email up from Travis with the projects and more extras will be later in the month.

So, enough of that! Let’s kick off 2024 with our first FREE Gift!

VIP Free Pearls January 2024
January VIP Free Gift

Freshwater Pearl Beads valued at $36!

We’re kicking off 2024 with a BANG! This strand of 7-8mm round freshwater pearls are high luster and gorgeous in formal wear, or even casual summer jewellery. Knot them on silk, thread them onto elastic or add them to earrings.

VIP members get a strand for FREE this month with any purchase of $10 or more.

December VIP Discount

30% Off Tools + Plastic Storage

30% OFF ALL Tools, Tool Kits, Plastic Storage

Kick off 2024 with a new set of tools to keep you crafting all year! This discount applies to all tools including Sculpey polymer clay tools, magnifiers and lamps, wire working, looms and more.

The sale includes these categories:

Excludes adhesives, already reduced lines.

How To Order Online with 30% OFF

VIP Members, please place your order and select “Direct Bank Deposit” as the payment option at checkout. We’ll apply your discounts, add your free gifts and advise the new discounted total. Please don’t pay until we’ve confirmed the discounted total.

Exclusive Monthly Specials – January

Each month we release some exclusive specials just for VIP members.

Dragonfly Toggle Clasp

Dragonfly Toggle Clasp

A gorgeous way to complete a necklace or bracelet. This toggle will work beautifully in fun and summery jewellery.

Normally $1.50 each
VIP Deal – 10 for $5

Swarovski Golden Shadow Helix Bead

Swarovski Helix Bead
Crystal Golden Shadow 8mm 9pk

Nothing sparkles quite like Swarovski Crystal Golden Shadow, and no shape is quite as mesmerising as the 5020 Helix.

Pack of 9 beads, 8mm size. Perfect for bracelets & necklaces, and also small enough for earrings.

Normally $12.90 /pack
VIP Price – $4

Sculpey Souffle Igloo Polymer Clay

Sculpey Souffle Igloo
Polymer Clay

Experience the amazing velvety feel of Souffle by Sculpey. This oven bake clay has a unique feel once baked unlike any other clay on the market.

Normally $6.50.
VIP Price $3

Preciosa twins Beads

Preciosa Twin
Jet Brown Iris Beads

Twins by Preciosa are almost the same as SuperDuo’s by Matubo. They have two holes making them perfect for needle & thread beading, or dual-stretch bracelets.

Sold per tube of approximately 120 beads.

Normally $7.70. VIP Price $2

Not a VIP? Join Now to Start Saving Big Time!

VIP Card 2024 at Beads N Crystals
Join VIP 2024 for over $240 in free gifts and 12 HUGE Discounts!

Become a Bead Lover GOLD VIP Member today to start saving and being rewarded! For the small investment of just $29, you’ll be entitled to receive a free gift of beads every month of 2023. You’ll also save big time with our huge monthly VIP special discount. These discounts are unlimited so you can order as little or as much as you want, as many times as you like in the calendar month.

Join VIP 2023

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Complete Guide to the One Step Looper!

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!

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Meet Travis, the New Wizard (sort of) at Beads N Crystals!

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!