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VIP Specials – April 2023

Gold VIP – Exclusive Club for Serious Beaders

Join VIP Gold for a year of specials and free gifts.

Gold VIP Members receive a free gift of beads every month and take advantage of huge discounts throughout the year. Please check out all the benefits on our VIP Membership page where you can also join if you’re serious about beading!

April Free Gift valued at $36

The free gift for VIP members this April is a full strand of 7-8mm White Freshwater Pearl Beads valued at $36.00! Freshwater Pearls are hot on trend at the moment and are a prominent component of fashion bracelets, earrings, anklets and necklaces. Combined with seed beads, wood, gemstones or crystal, in bright, pastel or dull colours, pearls can work in any context and convey any mood.

This month’s gift is valued at $36, bringing the value of gifts this year to $101.00 in just four months!

April VIP Discount

40% Off FINDINGS including Sterling & Gold

You’ll feel like an April Fool if you miss this deal! With 40% off all Findings, packeted or loose, including Sterling Silver and Gold, this is the month to stock up on everything you’ll need to finish your creations for the rest of the year. There are no limits, so you can stock up and save big-time this month!

Bails
Clasps
Crimps, Covers & Guardians
Daisy Spacers
Earring Components
Keychain Components
Jump Rings
Ring Findings
Brooch Backs
Tassels
Sterling Silver Findings
Gold Filled & Vermeil Findings

Please note this deal excludes already reduced and clearance lines, quantity pricing, beads, chain, and wire.

How To Order 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 – April

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

2mm Faceted Black Spinel

2mm Faceted Spinel
$12 – Was $24

Spinel is a gemstone that has been highly valued for centuries. It has a unique crystal structure that makes it extremely resistant to scratches and chips, making it a durable bead option. The vitreous or glassy lustre of Black Spinel makes it a popular gemstone for use in jewellery making.

These tiny 2mm faceted beads sparkle with surprising intensity. With approximately 190 beads on a strand, they’re exceptional value at the normal price, and a steal for VIP’s this April at just $12 a strand!

Size 6 White Griffin Silk cord 2m With Needle

Griffin Size 6 White
Silk with Twisted Needle

Griffin Silk is the best cord for stringing Freshwater Pearls. Size 6 is a medium grade at 0.7mm diameter. Sold per pack of 2 metres with a built-in twisted wire needle. This allows you to quickly and easily string pearls without the risk of injury from a sharp needle. It’s manufacturer into the end of the silk thread so the cord is no thicker than the single strand!

Normally $4.40, this month, try this silk for just $3

Glaze Coat 0.47L Kit

Famowood Glaze Coat
2-Part Epoxy Resin

Famowood Glaze Coat is a 2-part epoxy resin from the makers of E6000 & Fabri-Fuse. It’s perfect for use in silicone molds for jewellery and component making as well as pouring or brushing over wood furniture, plaques and frames or even ceramic, pottery and polymer clay. One coat of Famowood is equivalent to 70 coats of varnish!

It’s easy to use with a simple equal-part ratio. No UV lamps needed. Self levelling, low odour and works perfectly with Alcohol Inks and PearlEX Pigment Powders.

Our 470ml pack usually sells for $45, but VIP members can try it this month for just $29!

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

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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How To Identify Czech Glass Beads

Czech glass beads are an incredibly popular choice for anyone who makes their own jewellery, decorative pieces and other beaded creations. Whether you’re producing your masterpieces just for family and friends or you create beaded jewellery as part of a small business, Czech glass beads remain a mainstay because of their high-quality production methods and beautiful lustre. 

In order to make sure you’re investing in the best quality beads, it’s important to know the difference between Czech glass and other pale imitations. So, how can you tell if your Czech beads are original? Read on as we get to the bottom of the issue. 

How to identify Czech glass beads

The easiest way to identify Czech fire-polished glass beads is to check for the tell-tale signs of their manufacture. Czech fire-polished beads are first cut by a machine into a faceted shape. Then, they’re heated to soften those facet cuts and create an illuminating surface. Fire-polished beads will have a faceted profile that has softly rounded cuts and be very shiny on the outside. However, they won’t have the crystal clear clarity of crystal glass beads, which are rendered more clear thanks to the inclusion of lead. 

The most popular types of Czech glass beads

There are hundreds of thousands of different types of Czech glass beads — yes, you read that right! As a cottage industry, many small and large manufacturers create individual designs and shapes specific to their artisanal tradition or area of the Czech Republic. If you are looking for genuine Czech glass beads, there are a few styles that are classically created within the Czech Republic:

  • Brick — The name gives this style of bead away. A slim rectangular bead with two holes down its length — brick beads add a lovely fullness to any beading project without adding weight. 
  • Arcos par Puca A crescent-shaped bead with three holes ideal for multi-threading projects.
  • Druks Druk beads are small, smooth, round beads made using the pressed glass method. They can be used to great effect to create large-scale pieces like clutches or adorning clothing for extra texture.
  • Briolette Briolette beads use many intricate facets to create a high-shine finish that mimics the look of semi-precious gemstones and is often cut into a teardrop shape.
  • Candy — These round and shiny Czech glass beads are excellent for a variety of applications and come in a stunning array of colours and finishes for almost any project. 
  • Cali These ovoid-shaped beads feature three holes and are great as spacers or in more complicated beading patterns that form a larger picture. 

How to tell if a Czech bead is original 

Unfortunately, the cottage industry model of Czech glass bead making is both what makes it so diverse and so challenging to track the provenance of a bead. The only way to ensure that you have genuine Czech glass beads is to either consult a Czech glass antique specialist or purchase your Czech glass beads from a reputable retailer like Beads N Crystals. 

Where to buy genuine Czech glass beads

Fortunately, at Beads N Crystals, you don’t have to figure out how to tell if a Czech bead is original — we’ll do that for you! Our collection of Czech glass beads is sourced from authentic suppliers and is guaranteed to have all the lustre, unique handmade touch and superior quality of the genuine article. 
If you’re unsure which Czech glass beads will be best for your beading project, you need help matching supplies for a project or just some inspiration, talk to us! Our friendly team will be happy to help you with anything you need.

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How Are Czech Glass Beads Made

You may have heard of the term before, but what exactly are Czech beads? What’s unique about the making of Czech beads and why did they end up with their name? If you’ve been confused about the term or seen beads described as ‘Czech glass beads’, wonder no longer! 

In this article, we’ll explain how Czech glass beads are made, how the process has evolved over time and what sets these beads apart from the rest. 

Preciosa’s world-leading manufacturing facility in Czechia.

Why ‘Czech beads’?

The process of making Czech beads is an ancient, handmade process that relies on the expertise of well-trained artisans. They take their name from the modern Czech Republic, but these beads and their unique craftsmanship pre-dates the Czech Republic, Czechoslovakia and even the modern nation-state. 

In the region known as Bohemia, craftspeople took advantage of the natural deposits of sand, quartz and abundant flowing water to master the art of glass blowing and, in particular, glass beads. Drawing on traditional techniques from the Egyptians and other ancient civilisations, these Czech and bohemian artisans began experimenting with different methods, producing what soon became beads of such extraordinary quality that the name ‘Czech beads’ became synonymous with fine craftsmanship around the world.

How are Czech glass beads made

Because Czech beads have been made for centuries by small family businesses and artisans, the exact methods for making Czech beads are a closely guarded secret. However, the basic process is that large rods of molten coloured glass are pressed into moulds of different shapes and sizes with a needle in between to form a hole. Beads made in this way are called Czech-pressed glass beads. Fire-polished beads are another type of Czech bead, which are roughly cut into faceted shapes and then heated in large ovens, which softens the cut edges, adding lustre and shine in the process. 

Expert craftspeople work tirelessly to produce some of the finest glass products on the planet.

What are Czech beads made of? 

All Czech beads are made from coloured glass produced in the Czech Republic. They’re made from responsibly sourced local Bohemian sand. It’s a lead-free glass and crystal alternative that comes in various colours and can be processed using the fire polishing method to create an even more lustrous and high-shine surface. 

Responsibly sourced Bohemian Sand is the source of silica required to make Czech glass beads.

What’s the difference between Czech beads and Swarovski beads? 

Unlike Czech glass beads, Swarovski beads are made using crystal glass which contains lead and is slightly harder than their glass counterparts. Only beads manufactured by the Austrian company Swarovski can be called by that name. Swarovski crystal beads are often defined by their very precise faceted surface, while Czech glass beads tend to have more rounded shapes. Allowing more room to experiment and create different finishes, they can also be coated with matte finishes, patterns and metallic effects.

Are Czech glass beads only from the Czech Republic?

Yes — Czech beads come from large and small manufacturers in the Czech Republic, now referred to as Czechia. Czech glass beads are still made using traditional and time-honoured techniques, which gives them their reputation for being high-quality. Many small independent jewellers and hobbyists like to work with Czech glass beads because they have various styles and colours and are durable, premium-quality materials. 

Preciosa stands upon centuries of glassmaking tradition and innovation in producing responsibly crafted Bohemian crystal and glass beads.

Where can I buy Czech glass beads?

At Beads N Crystals, we stock an exceptional selection of Czech beads, perfect for creating earrings, bracelets, necklaces, bags, and so much more. Browse our online store and discover the range of high-quality beads, tools and materials to bring your beading ideas to life. 
Looking for something in particular or need more information about a type of bead? No worries! Our friendly team is here to help. Get in touch with us and we’ll help you with all your bead-related questions.

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How To Make Stone Beads

Have you ever found a stone during a bush walk or a pebble on the beach and just become obsessed with its natural beauty? We certainly have. There’s something enigmatic about how nature creates these forms that can’t be replicated. 

If you’ve always admired these forms or have a little collection of beautiful pebbles that are waiting to be used for something, learning how to make stone beads is a great option. It’s a cheap and simple way to transform these beautiful objects into something even more useful and aesthetically pleasing. 

Making stone beads only requires a few tools, a little bit of patience and a steady grip. If you want to master this DIY hack, read on!

How to make stone beads

Making stone beads requires a drill, so it isn’t a good DIY project for little kids or your first time using a power tool. With some safety goggles and a steady approach, you’ll be rewarded with your very own one-of-a-kind stone beads that can be used for earrings, bracelets, necklaces and any other piece you can imagine! 

Stones can crack if you try to brute force them, so make sure to press lightly and take breaks to get the possible result. 

What you’ll need: 

  • Drill or Dremel tool 
  • Small diamond tip drill bit 
  • Clamp, vise grip or block of putty 
  • A pen or pencil
  • Safety goggles
  • Spray bottle of water

Instructions: 

1. Start by assembling your stones, making sure they are clean. Select your diamond drill bits, bearing in mind that the width of the drill bit will define the size of the finished hole in your beads.

2. On each pebble, mark your hole’s entry and exit points. If you want this to be more even, you can fit a rubber band around the width and length of the stone so that the two bands intersect at a middle point. Mark this cross on each side of the stone with your pen or pencil. 

3. Place the stone in the vise or clamp, or if you don’t have one of these, wedge the stone very securely in a clump of putty. 

4. Spray the marked drill spot with water to stop friction and the drill spot from becoming too hot. You can also place the stone and putty in a plastic container with water covering the pebble.

5. With safety goggles on, hold the drill tip vertically over the marked hole and turn it onto its lowest setting. Gently allow the drill bit to start penetrating the stone. Turn the drill off and check you are happy with the positioning of the hole. Then, continue to drill through the centre of the stone. 

6. When you’re about halfway, release the stone, turn it over, and secure it in place again. Continue drilling until you connect with the first hole. 

7. Sit back and give yourself a pat on the back — you just learned how to make stone beads!

Bring your beaded creations to life with Beads N Crystals

Now that you’ve mastered making stone beads, you may be itching to turn your beads into a fully formed creation. At Beads N Crystals, you’ll find all the materials, tools and high-quality gemstone beads you need to let your creativity run wild. Shop the collection today, or get in touch with us for more tips and tricks on creating beautiful beading at home.

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How To Clean Gemstone Beads

Gemstone beads are some of the most beautiful and high-impact pieces you can use in bead-making. They add gorgeous natural colour and texture to any combination and, when looked after, provide a high-quality finished product that can be enjoyed for years to come. 

How to clean gemstone beads

Cleaning gemstone beads isn’t hard, and it’s the best way to keep them shining. There are, however, a few rules you’ll need to follow to get the best gleaming results and not risk damage. Let’s break them down.

Our tips for cleaning gemstone beads

  • Store your beads properly

They say the best defence is a good offence, so start your journey cleaning gemstone beads by maintaining their condition in the first place. Gemstones rarely respond well to direct sunlight, so store your beads in a clean, dry and cool place out of direct sunlight. This will stop them from prematurely fading, and keeping them in separate areas will prevent the beads from dulling or scratching from friction with other beads.

  • Know your types of gemstones

Not all gems are created equal — each type has very specific preferences for temperature, appropriate cleaning materials, hardness and more. For some gems like amber and amethyst, the safest cleaning method is with a soft brush and polishing cloth, as they’re very susceptible to chemicals and extreme temperatures. Likewise, emeralds should be kept away from hot water or steam cleaning. Tourmaline is also sensitive to heat but is relatively hardy when it comes to chemical cleaners. You should avoid soaking opals altogether, as prolonged exposure to water damages them.

When choosing your gemstone beads, make sure you buy them from a trusted source and always double-check best practices for cleaning gemstone beads of a certain type specifically.

  • Stay away from strong chemicals

They may seem as hard and solid as a stone, but gems can actually be quite fragile and can be easily tarnished by cleaning gemstone beads with strong chemicals. Any jewellery cleaners that contain ammonia are a no-go, especially for gemstones like pearl and amber, as they quickly erode at the surface. 

To be safe, avoid any strongly formulated cleaners and opt for mechanical (i.e. scrubbing) solutions over chemical ones. 

  • Use more elbow grease than product

Your safest bet for cleaning gemstone beads is to use a lukewarm solution with a few drops of dish detergent and let time and elbow grease do most of the work. If your gems can be soaked in water, leave them to soak for 30 minutes to loosen up any dirt or grime. Simply skip this step for gemstones that can’t rest in a solution. Follow with a very soft-bristled toothbrush with a little soapy water to gently scrub and buff away at the gemstone. Rinse under cool (but not freezing water) and dry completely with a polish cloth to reveal its lustre.

  • Wear your gemstones with care

Taking care of your gemstone jewellery pieces will go a long way to prolonging their life. Avoid swimming with them, spraying them with perfume and treating them delicately, and you’ll be rewarded with years of shine and enjoyment.

Ready to create your next gemstone masterpiece? At Beads N Crystals, we have the best range of beads for all your creative pursuits. Shop our high-quality beads and get inspired today!

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VIP Specials – March 2023

Gold VIP – Exclusive Club for Serious Beaders

Join VIP Gold for a year of specials and free gifts.

Gold VIP Members receive a free gift of beads every month and take advantage of huge discounts throughout the year. Please check out all the benefits on our VIP Membership page where you can also join if you’re serious about beading!

VIP Membership 2023

March Free Gift valued at $15

VIP Members receive a free gift each and every month of 2023 with a purchase of $10 or more. March is a great offer. Not only do members get a free strand of Czech Fire-polished beads AND a full 6-strand hank of Czech Size 11 Seed beads in this great blues mix, but it comes with a challenge!

Make something (anything!) using these beads, drop it in or email a photo by Monday April 17th and we’ll put them to a customer vote. The winner received a $50 Beads N Crystals Gift Card! Winner will be announced in the May VIP email.
Your entry can be anything at all, wearable or not wearable, but no bigger than a shoebox. Limit one entry per VIP member and the item needs to incorporate both the Czech fire-polished round and the size 11 seed beads in some way. You can use them with any other beads and materials, and you don’t need to use all of the beads.

This month’s gift is valued at $15, so we’re already up to $65 in free beads and it’s only the third month!

March VIP Discount

30% Off TOOLS & Plastic Storage

This is one of our most anticipated offers of the year! It’s time to check your kit and see what tools need replacing, and to consider that tool you’ve had your eye on for the past few months! All of our pliers, cutters, crimpers and more are on discount this month. We’re also including Sculpey brand tools, so Polymer Clay crafters can bag a bargain too. The other category that’s not to be missed, is plastic storage. It’s nowhere near Spring, but that’s no excuse to avoid an early Spring clean and tidy up of your craft room!

Tool Kits
Wire Working Tools
Pliers, Cutters & Crimpers
Hammers, Anvils and Bench Blocks
Sculpey Polymer Clay Tools
Needles and Threaders
Beading Looms and Spinners
Jigs and Accessories
Knotting & Braiding Tools
Lamps and Magnifiers
Bead Boards, Mats and Scoops
Plastic Storage & Tube Towers

It also includes Metal Working Tools, Specialty Tools & Reamers, Scales & Measuring, Sculpey Molds Cutters & Silk Screens, Silicone Molds, and Pack-A-Smile Hole Punches.

Please note this deal excludes already reduced and clearance lines, quantity pricing, packaging & displays, gift bags and adhesives.

How To Order 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 – March

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

Druzy Agate

8mm Druzy Agate
$10 – SAVE $20

Druzy Agate beads are quite uncommon these days. Cut from agate with crystal features, these beads are slightly irregular with an organic look. They show some of the crystal formations from inside the agate stone. The dark silver plating makes them perfect for statement jewellery, bracelets and decorations. No two beads are the same! 8mm Silver strand is just $10 for VIP’s this March, normally $30!

Nymo Thread

NYMO Thread
50% OFF White Size B

The Seed Beader’s staple, NYMO thread comes in a pack of 2 spools. With a fine diameter of just 0.2mm, it’s ideal for bead weaving with Czech Fire-polished beads and seed beads. Just what you need to create with the free beads this month. While stock lasts, these white size B bobbins are 50% off at just $4.95 per pack of 2 for VIP members in March.

Sticky Bead Mat

Sticky Bead Mat
83% OFF – JUST $1

Here’s another must-have for working with seed beads and small beads. The sticky bead mat sits on your work bench and keeps your beads securely in place. Simply pick them off with your needle as required and you’ll never be crawling around on the floor looking for your precious beads.

Blue Sticky Bead Mat is just $1 for VIP members this month.

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

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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How To Bead Crochet

Crochet is a method of creating fabric by looping yarn or thread around itself using a crochet hook. Bead crochet is a type of needlework that incorporates beads into the fabric to make decorative and intricate patterns. Once you learn how to bead crochet, you can add a new skill to your crafting repertoire. Although bead crochet can be used to make a range of items, it is most commonly used to create jewellery, accessories, and even works of art — the possibilities are almost endless when it comes to the application of crochet fashion. Learning how to do bead stitch crochet is relatively simple, and with a little practice, you can create beautiful pieces that are perfect for gifts or personal use. To help you get started, we’ve created this handy guide on how to bead stitch crochet.

Create beautiful crochet fashion and learn how to bead crochet the easy way

“Crochet” comes from the French word “croche” or “cro” which means to hook.  In bead crochet, beads are added to the foundation row or inserted into the fabric as it is being created. Beaded crochet has a more sparkly and glamorous look compared to regular crocheting. When it comes to bead crocheting, it’s a versatile technique, relatively easy to learn and does not require a lot of expensive equipment. There are two main methods to use when learning how to bead crochet: stringing the beads onto the yarn before beginning to crochet or adding the beads as you go.
  • Stringing the beads onto the yarn before beginning to crochet is the quicker of the two methods, but keeping track of where you are in the pattern can be more difficult. Start by stringing the appropriate number of beads onto your yarn. If you are using dental floss or another thread type, use a needle to string the beads onto the thread. Once the beads are on the yarn, make a slipknot and place it on your crochet hook. Tighten the knot so it is secure but not so tight that it is difficult to work with.
  • Adding the beads as you go is slower, but it allows you to adjust the placement of the beads as you work. Begin crocheting as you normally would, incorporating the beads into your stitches. To add a bead, simply slide it up to the top of your work and complete the stitch as normal. You can experiment with different bead colours and patterns to create unique and beautiful pieces of jewellery or art. With a little practice, you can create stunning bead crochet designs.

Discover easy-to-use bead crochet sets at Beads N Crystals

There are many unique ways to play with bead croquet to create bespoke pieces of art and fashion that you can gift to your loved ones. At Beads N Crystals, we have everything you need to get started on your croqueting journey. From an assortment of breathtaking beads to sturdy needles and other croquet supplies, we’re your one-stop shop for all things craft — whether you’re a beginner or a passionate creator. Just learning how to bead croquet? Check out our beading books, which contain detailed step by step instructions, showing you how to use and combine beading and crochet techniques to create one-of-a-kind art and fashion pieces.
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How To Use Bead Loom

bead loom is a great way to create beautiful, intricate patterns with beads. Whether you’re new to beading or it’s your favourite hobby, this technique is a relatively simple process that can be easily learned and mastered.

Bead looms were initially used to express Native American decorative art forms. Since then, the fun and effortless technique of weaving has evolved to incorporate contemporary designs such as stylish bracelets, jewellery, home decor and a wider gamut of other accessories. Learning how to use a bead-weaving loom can elevate your crafting skills and transform your creations into stunning visual art pieces.

Spinners and Looms

Unleash your creativity with a beam loom

Beading with the conventional method of using a needle and thread is often tedious, especially if you have an intricate pattern you wish to reproduce. Bead looms make the beading so much easier, allowing room for creating a broader spectrum of patterns — from pretty florals and bold geometric lines to nautical and bohemian designs, the list is endless.

Love bracelets? Once you know how to use a bead loom, you can craft on-trend bracelets that can be stacked or layered with delicate and statement creations. For fashion lovers, you can even breathe new life into an old t-shirt by embellishing it with a new and exciting pattern. When it comes to crafting with a bead loom, the sky’s the limit!

How to use a bead loom

  • Step 1 — supplies

When learning how to use a bead weaving loom, the first step is to collect the supplies you will be using. You will need a stitch chart, beads, needles, thread, scissors, a ruler and a bead loom. Many seasoned crafters use seed beads to create detailed work — they are smaller than regular beads, making them easier to cover smaller areas.

  • Step 2 — setting up the loom

Setting up and wrapping your loom is an important aspect of learning how to use a bead loom. Once you’ve chosen the width of your design, you can settle on the number of wrap threads your craft project will require. For instance, if you’re creating a bracelet, having seven to eight wrap threads is a good starting point. Knot the threads at the ends to create loops. Using a crochet hook, hook the loops into the wooden barrels over the loom, and pull the threads taut to create the desired tension. Thread your needle, and you’re ready to start the fun process of putting the beads onto the threads.

  • Step 3 — beading

The first step is a little tricky if you’ve never placed beads on a thread. But with a little patience, you can easily master this step. The trick is to start slowly and place the beads on correctly. You can use waft and weft techniques to string the beads into place. Waft is when the needle or pattern moves horizontally, and weft is the term used to describe the vertical movement of the beads. Once the beads are in place, use the needle to secure the thread at the end of the row. To continue the pattern, lift the previous row of beads and thread the next row under them. When you reach the end of the project, secure the thread and cut off any excess. Your bead loom project is now complete!

Craft eye-catching patterns with the best bead loom kits from Beads N Crystals

Bead looms are a great way to create personalised jewellery and accessories. Unlike other bead weaving techniques, loom work creates a neat and tidy fabric that you can use for a variety of purposes. Best of all, it’s not as difficult as it looks!

Ready to get started? Beads N Crystals is the go-to destination for all your crafting needs, offering high-quality and affordable beading supplies. Whether you love using a beam loom as a hobby or you’re a professional crafter, our expansive collection has everything you need to bring your vision to life. Browse our handy collection of adhesives, beautiful beads and nifty bead looming kits today!

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Wire Hearts Bracelet Simple Beading Project

Chevron Duo’s and Kite Beads woven together to form a fish tail shape combined with Baroque Oval Cabochons reflecting water waves make this bracelet into a ‘tale’ of a mermaid.

Skill Level: Intermediate
Techniques: Ending & Adding Thread, familiarity with two-hole beads
Finished Size: about 6.5″ or 16.56cm without clasp

Shop for Materials:
Baroque Ovals
Chevron Duo Beads
Kite Beads
Size 8 Miyuki Beads
Size 11 Miyuki Round Beads
Size 15 Miyuki Beads
Two-Loop Slide Clasp
Fireline 6lb
Size 12 Beading Needle

Download PDF to print

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VIP Specials – February 2023

Gold VIP – Exclusive Club for Serious Beaders

Join VIP Gold for a year of specials and free gifts.

Gold VIP Members receive a free gift of beads every month and take advantage of huge discounts throughout the year. Please check out all the benefits on our VIP Membership page where you can also join if you’re serious about beading!

VIP February 2023

February Free Gift valued at $21

VIP Members can select a free gift each and every month of 2023 with a purchase of $10 or more. February is all about being bright and standing out from the crowd. We have five different colour options to choose from. Each include three full length strands of 6mm Polymer Clay heishi spacer disc beads in bold colours. They have a hole large enough for any of our elastic, threading & stringing wires & cords including hemp, bright Waxed Brazilian cords and lots more. Use them alone or with seed beads, freshwater pearls or gemstones for a unique look perfect for the warmer months!

Colour options include (Left to right above) Keepin Cool Blues, RGB, Pretty in Pink, Digital Lavender and Terracotta. VIP’s can select any one of those colour mixes.

February VIP Discount

30% Off Rhinestones, Sequins, Packaging & Display products including Swarovski $12 Flat Back packets and all shimr brand crystals!

If you have any weddings, formals, dances, gymnastics competitions, musicals or plays coming up this year, this month is for you! A huge 30% discount on our extensive collection of Swarovski Flat Back Crystals ($12 packs) in glue-on or hot-fix, along with our entire shimr range of flat back diamantes, pointy-backs, set crystals and cup chains is not to be missed! Also on sale are our acrylic diamantes, table scatters, trim and ribbon, beaded chain and more.

If you’re going to be gifting or displaying your jewellery, the sale also includes packaging, organza bags, gift boxes, paper bags, card hole punches, earring cards, display busts, earring and bracelet stands and more.

Swarovski Hot-Fix $12pks
shimr Hot-Fix Bulk Packs
Sequins
Swarovski Glue-On $12pks
shimr Glue-On Bulk Packs
Glass Rhinestones
Swarovski Pointy-Backs
shimr V Backs
Acrylic Pointy-Backs
Jewellery Displays & Labelling
shimr Sew-on Claw Settings
Gift Bags, Boxes, Paper & Clipseal Bags

Please note this deal excludes already reduced and clearance lines, plastic storage, photo studios & accessories, hole punches and Swarovski factory packs.

How To Order 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.

Premo White Polymer Clay

Try Something New

Have you tried Premo oven-bake Polymer Clay?

Premo is the premium clay by Sculpey. It can be molded, shaped, rolled, cut, smooshed and shaped as you like. Once you’ve created the perfect shape, simply bake it in your home oven to turn it into a permanent durable bead, figure or pendant.

Premo can be painted or mixed with other colours of clay, pigment powders or alcohol inks to create endless possibilities.

This month, VIP’s can try a block of white Premo for just $3. If you’d like to mix it up with another colour, you can select up to 2 more blocks of 57g premo in any colours along with the white block at the same price.

For this offer, add to cart, check out without paying and we’ll apply the discounts. Limit 3 blocks at this price per member, one white and up to two other colours.

Czech Size 11 Hank

Lagoon Mix

Buy 1 Get 1 Free

These size 11 glass seed beads are made in the Czech Republic by Preciosa Ornela from the highest quality Bohemian sand.

Renowned for their perfect consistency in shape and colour, these beads are ideal not just for weaving and needlework, but also as spacers on strung jewellery and even by themself as a fine stretch bracelet.

Normally $7 for a 6-strand hank, this month VIP’s can grab 2 hanks for $7!

Sterling Silver
Spiral Tube Beads 5mm

These beads are perfect for adding a special touch to your beading projects. They work well with almost anything from seed beads to pearls and even small gemstones. Highlight your feature bead or pendant with these on either side for a classy accent.

Normally 65c each, sale price just 20c each for VIP members while stock lasts.

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

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