Shopping for Supplies | Foolproof Crimping | Stringing Heavy Beads

Try two strands of beading wire for heavier beads and check out this reader's tip for making secure crimps.

1 sturdy strands
Instead of using a larger-diameter flexible beading wire to string heavy beads, I use two strands of .014 or .015 wire. If one strand breaks, the second provides reinforcement and holds the beads together. Just make sure the beads at the ends of the piece have holes large enough to accommodate four strands of wire. - Dee Martin, via e-mail

2 the key to shopping
When I have some beads for a project, but need additional components, I string the beads on a head pin, make a wrapped loop, and attach the head pin to my keychain. The keychain keeps the beads accessible, and seeing my beads every day motivates me to complete my project. - Linda Stark, Jacksonville, FL

3 in the cards
When I'm considering colors for a project, I go to the hardware store and select an assortment of paint chips. Since they are portable, reusable, and easy to sort, chips help me see a variety of possible colors and design arrangements. - Charlee Cole, Los Angeles, CA

4 seed bead solution
To make a bail (hanging loop) for a large-holed bead, string size 8 or 10 seed beads on a head pin to fit inside the larger bead. The seed beads will prevent the head pin from moving around and help the large bead hang evenly. - Anne Petersion, via e-mail

5 crimping compromise
For foolproof crimping, I use both crimping and chainnose pliers. First, I use the lower grooves in the crimping pliers to create the fold in the crimp bead. Then, I use chainnose pliers to fold the crimp in half. This method creates a secure crimp with less likelihood of breaking adjacent beads. - M.R. Miller, Evanston, IL

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November 2003