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VIP Specials – June 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!

June Free Gift valued at $14

Your free gift for June is a 100g Size 8 Pearlescent Glass Seed Bead set valued at $14. The set includes 10 colours of opaque pearlescent seed beads perfect for embellishing or spacing between other beads. They’re also great for seed beading projects and loom beading.

This month’s gift is valued at $14.00, bringing the value of gifts this year to $131! This gift is yours free with any spend of $10 or more this June!

The pictured bead scoop and tweezer tool is also on sale at just $4 for VIP members this month!

JUNE VIP Discount

30% Off POLYMER CLAY, ADHESIVES, RESIN, Unicorn SPiT

Polymer Clay

30% OFF – Polymer Clay

Polymer clay is a versatile and popular medium among beaders because it allows for endless creative possibilities. With polymer clay, you can shape and mold it into any design or form you desire, making it perfect for creating unique and personalised beads, pendants, charms, and other jewellery components.

One of the key advantages of working with polymer clay is its wide range of vibrant colours. Polymer clay comes in an extensive colour palette, allowing you to mix and blend colours to achieve the exact shades and hues you envision for your designs. This makes it easy to match your clay creations with other beads, findings, and materials in your jewellery-making projects.

Polymer clay is also a durable and lightweight material, making it comfortable to wear as jewellery. Once baked in a standard oven, it becomes hard and durable, ensuring that your creations will withstand everyday wear and tear. Additionally, polymer clay can be sanded, buffed, and polished to achieve a smooth and professional finish, giving your designs a polished and professional look.

The discount applies to all loose blocks as well as multi-packs of Sculpey III, Sculpey Premo, Sculpey Souffle, Original Sculpey, Liquid Sculpey and CosClay Polymer Clays.

Please note this deal excludes already reduced and clearance lines, quantity pricing, air-dry clay, other Sculpey brand products such as tools and cutters.

30% OFF – Adhesives & Glues

Our full range of E6000 adhesives including Fabri-Fuse, GOOP and Shoe-Goo adhesives are on sale this month for VIP Members. The sale also includes Gem-Tac, Mod-Podge, Seal-All, Gum Arabic and ZAP Gel. Stock up on all the craft glues you’ll need for the rest of the year to maximise your member savings this year!

Please note this deal excludes already reduced and clearance lines, bulk carton rates, and some quantity pricing.

30% OFF – RESINS

Take 30% off all 2-Part Epoxy Resins AND UV Resins! Includes all pre-coloured UV resins, Lisa Pavelka Magic Gloss, Resin Kits and all sizes of Famowood and Liquid Gloss resin. Whether you’re into resin mold work, pouring or woodwork, this is the month to grab all the resins you’ll need for the upcoming gift seasons!

Sale also includes all Resin Kits that include Resin, AND all Just-Add-Resin kits as well! Selected Resin Dyes packs also included.

Excludes molds, accessories, pigment powders and all Pinata Ink. Also does not apply in addition to any other discount including quantity discounts.

30% OFF – UNICORN SPiT

The amazing Unicorn SPiT Gel Stain & Glaze is now available in even more colours with the addition of the Metallics collection. Use it straight from the bottle or water it down to create unlimited effects. Make artwork to set under resin in pendants or wall art, restore furniture or get creative with glass, wood, fabric, concrete, ceramics and more. Add a coat of Epoxy resin (also on sale this month!) to finish with a bright glossy colour that brings out the richest possible colours.

Discounts applies to single bottles and multi-packs. Also includes the YouCAN Spray Can which can be pressurised with a standard bike pump to make your own spray paints with Unicorn SPiT!

In Store: we’ll apply the discount when we process your purchase.

Online Orders: Check out selecting “Direct Bank Deposit” so you can submit the order unpaid. After we’ve picked & packed your order with the discounts and free gift, we’ll contact you with the new total.

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 – JUNE

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

Tweezer Scoop Tool

Scoop & Tweezer

Just $4

This handy tweezer and scoop tool is a must-have tool for beading. Quickly and easily scoop up your beads and findings to transfer them into your clipseal bags to storage boxes. The tweezer end allows you to pick out a single bead or finding from your containers making beading easier and far less messy!

At just $4 for VIP’s, this is one tool you’ve just got to have!

Fluorite 8mm Round Beads Strand

Rainbow Fluorite

The wide range of colours in rainbow fluorite make these beads perfect for bright yet earthy jewellery.

Fluorite beads are believed to have protective and cleansing properties, shielding the wearer from negative energies and promoting a sense of inner harmony and balance.

This month, these 8mm beads are just $20 per strand for VIP members.

Vintage-look Aqua Gold Foiled Beads

Vintage Look Aqua Beads

These vintage-look acrylic beads are translucent aqua with gold accents and come on a strand of 13 different beads.

Each strand includes the same thirteen beads, so buying two strands would give you 13 pairs, making them suitable for earrings. A single strand is enough to make a stretch bracelet on 0.8mm Stretch Magic.

The beads holes vary from 1mm to 3mm so some can be used on thin leather too.

Normally $16, this month on sale for VIP Members at just $10, still with the full 16 points!

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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VIP Specials – May 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!

May Free Gift valued at $16

Your free gift for May is a pack of 100 Swarovski Crystal Bicone beads valued at $16+. We have a few colours available in 4mm, one colour per pack, while stock lasts. There are also a very small number of mixed packs available which include random colours in various sizes. There are enough packs for all members this month, but colour options will be more limited towards the end of the month.

This month’s gift is valued at $16 or more, bringing the value of gifts this year to $117! This gift is yours free with any spend of $10 or more!

MAY VIP Discount

40% Off SEED BEADS

Shop Seed Beads

Seed Beads are not just for Seed Beaders

Seed beads are small beads that are typically cylindrical or round. They are commonly used in jewellery making and beadwork, and come in a variety of sizes, colours, and finishes. The most common sizes of seed beads range from 15 (the smallest) to 6 (the largest). They are often used in bead weaving techniques such as peyote stitch, brick stitch, and loom-work, and are also used in stringing projects like bead embroidery and bead crochet.

Our range includes various other shapes as well as 2-hole varieties. Because of their small size, seed beads allow for intricate and detailed designs, making them a popular choice for both novice and experienced beaders.

Although seed beads are great for all those projects, if you’re not a seed beader, don’t overlook the amazing opportunities they can offer to any beading designs. Seed beads work perfectly as spacers in strung jewellery, an added element in earrings, between pearls, wood or gemstone, on elastic and lots more.

Multi-hole seed beads can also be used as little bails to attach a charm or tassel, to keep 2-strand necklaces and bracelets together or to create an interesting fringe not possible with regular beads. If you use pearls, gemstones, crystal, wood, glass, shell or acrylic, seed beads can be integrated into your designs in lots of ways!

Check out our full range of sizes and shapes.

Please note this deal excludes already reduced and clearance lines, quantity pricing, seed bead sized beads in other categories such as pearl, glass, crystal, gemstone.

In Store: we’ll apply the discount when we process your purchase.

Online Orders: Check out selecting “Direct Bank Deposit” so you can submit the order unpaid. After we’ve picked & packed your order with the discounts and free gift, we’ll contact you with the new total.

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.

VIP Beading Competition Winners

And the Winner is…

Thank you to all the VIP members who entered our design competition. We were so pleased with the response and the quality of the entries that we added a second and third prize!

Also, a huge thank you to the 300 in-store customers who took the time to vote on their favourite designs over the last couple of weeks. We’ve counted up the votes and we have a winner! See the vote counts above.

  • 1st Place – $50 Voucher – Meredith
  • 2nd Place – $30 Voucher – Julie
  • 3rd Place – $20 Voucher – Pieter

If you’ve supplied the physical item, it can now be picked up.

Exclusive Monthly Specials – May

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

6mm AAA Grade Amethyst

6mm Round AAA Grade Amethyst

40% OFF – $24

Amethyst is a purple gemstone in the quartz family. It’s a popular gemstone and is often used in necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. It is also believed to have many healing properties such as helping with emotional and spiritual healing and also providing clarity and wisdom. This month, we have AAA Grade 6mm round beads on sale for VIP members at just $24 a strand. Normally $40.00

Speedle Needle

Speedle Needle

The Speedle Needle makes threading a breeze! Simply thread your cord through the super large eye and grab a tube of your favourite seed beads. Now, rapidly push and retract the needle from the tube and watch as they magically thread in seconds! Suits size 11 to size 15 seed beads in a tube.

TIP: Cut a tube down to half size and reuse it for each colour of seed bead.

This month, 2Pk Speedle Needles is just $14.

KO and Miyuki Threads

KO & Miyuki Thread

K.O. and Miyuki beading threads are a fantastic option for any beader, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional. This high-quality nylon thread is incredibly strong, making it perfect for use in a wide variety of beading projects, including intricate beadwork, seed bead embroidery, and stringing.

This month, KO and Miyuki Beading Threads are just $6.93 for VIP members. Lots of colours to choose from.

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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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

A 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!