bead

MARCH 2007
Sponsored by

Ceramic style
in just two steps

DAZZLE handba
friendl g-
size! y
15 SIMPLE MAKES FOR
SOPHISTICATED STYLE
★ Fashion Bracelets ★ Bling Rings
★ Gorgeous Necklaces & More!

From the publishers of

Dainty Seeds
& Chunky Crystal
Pull this charmer together

chandelier
earrings
5 GREAT
LOOKS EXPERT ADVICE...
from top designers on keeping jewels

★ Essential Tools ★ Bead Barometer ★ Tips & Tricks ★

www.quickandcrafty.com
www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

Mail Order: Unit 2, Asheridge Road, Chesham, Bucks HP5 2PT

Tel: 01494 778818 Fax: 01949 776605
Email: [email protected]

Shop: 20 Beak Street, London W1F 9RE

Tel: 020 7629 9964
bead
DAZZLE
From the publishers of

we love
making jewellery
on a roll
Here at Quick & Crafty! We've
because... been bitten by the jewellery
bug that's tipped as one of the
Angela Kennedy hottest crafty favourites for
Deputy Editor 2007. This special edition of
The techniques are easy to
master, so even newbie
Bead Dazzle celebrates all that
craftistas like me can make is brilliant about beading, so
sparkling accessories pop it in your handbag to
read about the latest trends
Gaby Doman anytime. It's crammed with as
Editorial Assistant much beady information as we
I wear statement pieces could squeeze in. From sparkling
that you can’t buy on the
high street. If you want to projects, to essential tools. Basic
stand out, make it yourself! techniques to our very own Bead
Barometer. Of course you can't
Corrina Dell begin without the right materials,
Advertising Executive and that's where our suppliers -
I love the thrill of turning a who include some of the best in
pack of beads into
the business – can help you out.
jewellery. Especially when
I can say ‘I made it myself!’ So get threading and join the
bead revolution!
Sam Compton
Advertising Executive
It’s the only craft that I’m
Thanks to our sponsors...
any good at! I love the Creative Beadcraft Limited & its design team:
idea of making my own
accessories for a night out! Vicky Lynch
Principle Designer
Assisted by: Mandy Summerfield & Sue Instone
Creative Beadcraft Ltd was established in 1920, and has for more than 85 years been a
national leader in importing beads. The collection includes wooden and glass beads of
the highest quality, jewellery components, Swarovski crystal beads and stones,
semi-precious ceramic and metal items from countries around the world.
Amongst the vast and varied range there are beads for embroidery, jewellery design,
dress/costume making, in fact virtually any bead-related hobby.

Colour catalogue, £3.50, www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk, 01494 778818

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 03
TOTALLYBEADS
We sell a wide range of Silver Foil Beads,
Shell Beads, Miyuki Beads, Indian Glass Bead Mixes,
Tibetian Silver Toggles as well as all kinds
of findings in silver plated, gold plated
and black plated. Lots of different kinds of tools.

Super long thread in 36 colours in

both size AA and D as well.

Over 500 different kinds of Craft Seed Beads

Glass pearls in many differnet style and shape,

just to mention some of them. 8 different sizes of
Crackle Beads in 25 different colours,
Marble Glass Beads, Dry Mud Beads,
Metallic (Glitter) Beads, Cat’s Eye Beads,
Milky Glass Beads,
Glass Pearls in 30 different colours

NEW BEADS COMING IN 2007

120 Different shades of 6mm spacer lamp work
beads to match any other beads.

Wool bead packs in 6 different colour combinations

Our main business is retail but

we do wholesale as well.

www.totallybeads.co.uk
08450 943594
Don’t forget to check out www.beadshows.co.uk for future beading events
Inside indulge yourself in these
bead-inspired treats

make it
06 crystal clear
Sparkle in a Swarovski encrusted
bracelet and earring set
09 shell seeker
Bring out the inner beach babe
with seashell charms
10 glass act
Co-ordinate your look with chic 09 35
greens and gold
12 show stoppers
24 15
Be the belle of the ball in these
easy-to-make chandelier earrings
20 summer love
Try the vibrant necklaces that are
all the rage this year
24 catwalk call
Make pretty pastel style your
spring essential
32 ceramic style
Cool, contemporary colours are 43 essential tools Art Director
given a fun makeover Go back to basics with our guide PHIL DUNHAM
39 shine on to your tool box must-haves
Designer
Forget brooches, kilt pins are the 48 basic techniques SARAH ROSCOE
modern way to accessorize Follow Creative Beadcraft's basic
Photography
50 candy girl techniques to get you beading in
PAUL BARKER
Pile on the sugar with this cute no time Editor ANT JONES
bracelet design LYNN MARTIN Advertising Enquiries
people & places 01206 505980 (01206) 505114
practical matters 15 in beading we love Deputy Editor Quick&Crafty!
Get your fix of what’s hot in the ANGELA KENNEDY Subscribe online at
30 wear & care
Expert tips on keeping your latest bead news Editorial Assistant www.quickandcrafty.com
jewels in mint condition 22 day in the life GABY DOMAN ©Aceville Publications Ltd. 2007

35 stones & findings Auction-house jewellery expert,

Get inspired by these natural Kate Slovak, guides us through Write and tell us what you
beauties and essential findings her typical day think of Bead Dazzle at:
Quick & Crafty!
36 bead barometer 26 charm school 25 Phoenix Court
The definitive guide to this We uncover the jewellery that's Hawkins Road
seasons cutting-edge beads causing a stir Colchester, Essex CO2 8JY

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 05
 crystal
CLEAR
This two-string bracelet and
earring set is a real show-stopper
These gorgeous sparkling
items are real pieces of
statement jewellery. Created
using beautiful Swarovski
crystals you can be assured
that all components are of
the highest quality. The set is
available in a choice of seven
stylish colourways.

bracelet
1 Take two pieces of
monofilament, thread together
through the crimp. Thread on
the lobster clasp and bring
both pieces of monofilament
back through the crimp.
Flatten crimp with pliers as
close to the clasp as possible,
trim thread ends.
2 Thread one bead onto one
piece of monofilament. String
two beads on the other, with
the third bead in the second
colour (Fig 1).
3 Thread the end of the
monofilament with one bead
on it through the second bead
on the other side (Fig 2). Pull
tight (Fig 3).
4 Repeat pattern, with every third
bead in the second colour,
until you have the desired
length. End with two beads of
the same shade (Fig 4).
5 Thread both pieces of
06 quickandcrafty.com
 MA K E I T

essentials
✪ Monofilament, two 300mm lengths
✪ Crimps, two (JF79)
✪ Lobster clasp ( JF84B)
✪ Swarovski bicones, 4mm,
70 colour 1 (CGB9)
monofilament through a order. Alternating two shades
crimp; pass themthrough the creates diagonals. Threading three ✪ Swarovski bicones, 4mm,
34 colour 2 (CGB9)
end of a short piece of chain beads of one colour followed by
and back through the crimp. three of another creates chevrons. ✪ Chain, 100mm (C7)
✪ Headpins, five (JF18)
6 Thread each bicone onto a
headpin. Trim excess wire with
earrings
earrings
pliers and form a loop (see Thread each of the bicones onto a
page 48). Attach five of these headpin, trim excess and form a ✪ French post earring fittings
to the last link to form an loop (see page 48). Attach each of ✪ Chain, two each 150mm (C7)
extension chain with a dangle. the ten eye-pins to alternate sides ✪ Headpins (JF18)
of the links in the chain. Attach ✪ Swarovski bicones, 4mm, 10 each
Variations: You can easily vary the earring post to one end of the colour 1 & 2 (CGB9)
this design by buying equal chain and attach the butterfly clip
quantities of beads in two colours
and putting them on in a different
to the other end. This will form a
loop when fastened in the ear. stop&shop
Swarovski Bracelet & Earrings
fig 1 fig 3 Kit 1: seven colourways
(view online)
Price: £11.45 (includes postage)
Discount: Buy three Creative
fig 2 fig 4 Beadcraft kits featured in this
issue & receive £2.50 from total
cost. Call 01494 778818
or order online at
www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 07
 21st Century Beads
We stock a fantastic range of
loose beads including Swarovski,
wood, bone, glass, metal, gemstone,
plastic and Freshwater pearl. Also
wide range of findings, tiara bands
and boxes, hairslides and combs,
wire, cord and thread, clasps,
magnets, tools, kits, and books.

Colour catalogue for mail-order

£2.50 (wholesale and retail),
through our shop in Ellesmere Port,
Cheshire, or via our website
www.beadmaster.com
Please phone us on
0151-356 4444
if you require any further details

YOUR TOUCH OF CRAFT LTD

We are moving to new premises in
Bury St Edmunds Town Centre

• 97 Different colours of Seed Beads

• Fibre Optic Cats Eyes • Mystic Crystals
• Milifiori • Copper Glass Beads
• Jaspers • Fresh Water Pearls • Mixed Gem Stones
• Cloissone • Square Cut Seed Beads
• Over 200 Watch Faces • And all Findings.

Please check our website or phone for the location.

web: www.yourtouchofcraft.com Tel: 01284 761222
email: [email protected]
New Paper Craft Shop open in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.
08 quickandcrafty.com
 MA K E I T

SHELL
seekers
Dainty shells jostle for space
along this dainty necklace
Make this simple chain necklace
with shell pendants using either
mixed colours in the same shape
or a co-ordinated mix of colours
and shapes

essentials
✪ Chain, silver-plated, one metre (C6)
✪ Jump rings, 5mm silver-plated, 32
✪ Shells, mixed, 32 (SHS or SHC)

earrings
✪ Chain, silver-plated, two 50mm
lengths (C6)
✪ Fish hook earrings (JF57)
✪ Jump rings, 18
✪ Flower shells, 18 (SHS or SHC)

necklace
1 Cut the chain to the desired
length and join the two
ends. Attach a jump ring to
each shell pendant. Attach
a shell to every fourth link
stop&shop
Shell Chain & Earrings
in the chain, using
alternating colours. Kit 3: six colourways
(view online)
earrings Price: £6.30 (includes postage)
Discount: Buy three Creative
1 Cut two 50mm lengths of Beadcraft kits featured in this
chain. Fasten a fish hook to issue & receive £2.50 from total
one end. Attach nine shells cost. Call 01494 778818
in alternating colours to or order online at
every other link in the chain
www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk
using the jump rings.

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 09
 MA K E I T

GLASS act
Longer-length necklaces are perfect
for brightening your LBD
This glistening necklace is a stunning combination of quality
components which are mostly glass, with crackled plastic and
plated metal. The centrepiece is a silver foiled
lampbead. All available as a special kit
together with threading instructions.

Follow
these tips
for success....
✪ When beading a longer ✪ Change the total length of
length such as this, start
work from the middle of the
necklace (the back of the
the necklace if you like, this is
the beauty of working to
both ends from the middle!
stop&shop
neck), and work towards Be careful not to shorten it Kit: £14.95 (includes
each end evenly so the so much that it will not pass postage) contains all
design is symmetrical. over your head. necklace components.
✪ If you want to be extra-safe ✪ We've used Tigertail, an Order from:
when finishing off the ends, extra-durable beading 21st Century Beads,
put a drop of Super Glue on thread. It is prone to bending 0151 356 4444,
the French crimps to make and will kink quite easily, so www.beadmaster.com
them a little more secure. handle carefully.

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

10 quickandcrafty.com
 MA K E I T

SHOW stoppers
These classy droplets will add a touch of glamour to any outfit
Once you've mastered a little chandelier wave
looping and twisting of wire
1 Attach the earwire to the top the bottom of the chandelier
you can create eye-catching
loop of the chandelier component.
chandelier earrings just like component using snipe-nose
these. From Amethyst through 4 To make the middle drop:
pliers to twist open and close
thread an oval amethyst onto
to turquoise we've looks to suit the earwire loop. To make the
an eye-pin, trim the length and
every mood. two outside drops of the
bend into a loop using round-
earring, slip a stardust bead
nose pliers. Cut two short chain
and a Fluorite bead onto a
essentials headpin. Snip the top from the
lengths (1cm and 0.5cm). Slip
them both onto one loop of
✪ Earwires, Sterling Silver headpin so it is just long
the eye-pin (which the
✪ Chandelier components, enough to bend a loop using
amethyst is threaded onto).
Sterling Silver, two round-nose pliers.
Attach the two drops (made in
✪ Head-pins, Sterling Silver, ten; 2 Make an extra drop like this for step 2) onto the ends of the
eye-pins, two one of the middle drops and chains, using snipe nose pliers
✪ Stardust beads,3mm another one in the in the same to twist open and close the
Sterling Silver, six way, but use the 2mm plain headpin loops.
✪ Round beads Sterling Silver, silver bead and a Fluorite bead
5 Attach this whole drop to
2mm, two (this is also for the middle
the middle loop on the
✪ Fluorite faceted round 6mm drop) set these two aside.
bottom of the chandelier by
beads, eight 3 Attach the outside drops twisting open the top loop
✪ Amethyst faceted oval beads, two (made in step 1), twist the of the eye-pin and closing
✪ Chain, Sterling Silver, 6cm-10cm head-pin loop apart and slip neatly. You then have one
onto the two outside loops on complete earring.

“Chandelier loop rings

earrings are so This is one of the most
popular right exciting new ideas for
beading enthusiasts –
now and simple an easy way for you
to make. Why to make your own
not use the unique ring using
same techniques to make a just your beading
matching pendant?” skills – no need for
HANNAH HODGE stone setting!
KERNOWCRAFT ROCKS & GEMS LTD

12 quickandcrafty.com
 chandelier teardrop
chandelier infinity
chandelier circle

more chandeliers!
Chandelier components are
available in a variety of styles,
suitable for use with a huge range
of gemstone beads. Pictured are
some more we have made. A
useful technique to master is
wire wrapping used with fine
non-tarnish beading wire on
some of these earrings. This is an
excellent technique featured in
the book ‘All Wired Up’ by Mark
Lareau. It's also explained in
Kernowcraft's free catalogue and
on their website.

stop&shop
All beads, findings, tools & books
needed for these projects are
available from Kernowcraft
Rocks & Gems Ltd. For a free
chandelier wave
chandelier kite

catalogue with inspiring projects

call 01872 573888 or
www.kernowcraft.com

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 13
 
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quickandcrafty.com 14
 NEWS & REVIEWS

In Beading crafty ceramics

We Love...
Go for the ‘I made it
myself’ look with these
ceramic beads from
Kars, but without getting
Get up to speed on the latest your hands (or your
bead news with Gaby Doman oven) dirty!
www.kars.biz
WILD THINGS
For the fashion-savvy crafter, animal
print is where it's at. It prowled the
runways at Moschino, Miu Miu and
Gucci, and as ever, craftistas are
quick to pick up on the trend. But
unless you're after the Bet Lynch
look, this trend can be difficult to
pull off, so make like Kate Moss
and stick to subtle splashes. Jilly
Beads have pounced on the feline
action with these wooden safari-
inspired beads in cheetah print.
Hunt down this strand for £2.95 at
www.jillybeads.co.uk to stay ahead of
the fashion pack.

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 15
In Beading
We Love...
PRETTY PENDANTS
There are 31 new pendants
for just £1.80 at
www.makejewellery.co.uk,
that's one for every
day of the month!

sweet like
chocolate
These cute flecked beads put us in
mind of all things Easter with their speckled-egg
appearance. It might be too early to start a
chocolate-eating marathon, but it's never too
soon to start the festivities. Pick them from 90p
for ten at www.constellationbeads.co.uk

birthday beads
Happy Birthday to Kernowcraft, who hit 'The Big 40' on
9th March! Since it opened in Cornwall in 1967, the mail order
company has been one of the quickest to deliver a vast range of
beads direct to our door! Never one to be left behind the times, it
has now re-vamped the website so it's even easier to use!
01872 573888 www.kernowcraft.com

16 quickandcrafty.com
 NEWS & REVIEWS

FLUTTERING BY
If you’re beading ability
stops at stringing
bracelets, take the next
step with cute kits. Our
favourite is this brooch
kit, perfect to secure
your scarf. Check the
difficulty rating of each
pack before you buy.
There's a project to suit
every ability. Click on
www.oaktreecrafts.com
to view the entire range.

bead bonanza
Situated just off London's achingly hip Carnaby
Street, Creative Beadcraft is a long-standing
favourite for Theatres, TV stylists and high
street stores alike since it's opening in 1920.
You'll find a huge range of beads, components,
crystal palaces
Take a look at
tools, stones, trimmings and sequins. Find the www.crystalgarden.co.uk
shop at 20 Beak Street, London, head to
www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk or call for beautiful one-off lampwork beads
01494 778818 to see what all the fuss is about. for around £12 each.

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 17
In Beading
We Love...

boxing clever
Taking care of your beads is
essential, so make sure you box
up your jewels to avoid
frustratingly tangled wires. Do it
with panache with these pretty
papier mâché boxes with ribbon
ties. For more tips and tricks, turn
to page 30, where the experts spill
all about caring for your creations.
www.magpiejewellery.co.uk

bestsellers

“I love these boxes for

keeping my best beads safe!
They look great stacked on
my dressing table!”
SAM COMPTON, Q&C ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

Bead & Button,

Ribbon & Felt Jewellery
Deborah Schneebeli-Morrell
BRIGHT IDEA
£12.99 Cico If you like your beads to
Create cool designs that you stand out in a crowd, try
won't see anywhere else, Dress It Up's offerings. We
from lace cameo brooches to love its dreamy, caramel
patchwork corsages, this is coloured combo pack,
the ultimate in shabby chic! Crème Brulee, but there's
Projects are quick and easy loads to choose from if
to follow and best of all, you prefer your beads
you'll already have most of bright and bold, log on to
the bits and pieces you need
to get started.
www.scrapbookingonline.co.im
to view the whole range!
18 quickandcrafty.com
 Neptune Treasure Bracelet Kit
Price: £14.99 inc p&p
Colourways: Pink, Blue & Bronze.

To order call: 01327-353639

Or cheques to : The Bead Scene.
PO Box 6351, Towcester. NN12 7YX
www.thebeadscene.com
quickandcrafty.com 19
SUMMER love
This glistening set will keep you sparkling all season
The Elements set
is a great way to
get stunning
jewellery fast!
The pack
features a range
of acrylic beads in a
variety of chunky and irregular
shapes in coordinated colour
mixes. Here we've combined
the beads with chain for a
contemporary look.

essentials necklace 3 Cut the chain to the desired

1 Thread beads onto the eye- length. Attach each end of it
necklace to the loop on the eye-pins at
pins. Either use just one of the
✪ Beads, 75gm Elements (BPE2) larger beads on an eye-pin or the end of each beaded
✪ Chain,one metre, silver-plated (C7) a medium bead between two section.
✪ Eye-pins,19 silver-plated, 50mm smaller ones, or even three
(JF80) small matching beads. This bracelet
gives an interesting irregular
1 Start in the same way as the
bracelet effect. Use about 19 eye-pins.
necklace. Use nine eye-pins
✪ Beads: 25gm Elements 2 Make a loop in the top of and vary the length. Attach
✪ Lobster clasp (JF84B) each eye-pin (see page 48). each section together. Fasten
✪ Jump ring (JF105) Connect each beaded eye-pin the lobster clasp to one end
✪ Eye-pins: 9 silver-plated 50mm
combining them randomly to and the jump ring to the
give a varied effect. other to finish.
20 quickandcrafty.com
 MA K E I T

stop&shop
Elements Necklace & TIP
Bracelet Kit 2: nine The length of the beaded section of the necklace and the
colourways (view online) bracelet can be varied as required. Group your beads
Price: £6.75 (post included) together and lay out your design before commencing
Discount: Buy three Creative a beadboard is useful for this
Beadcraft kits featured in this
issue & receive £2.50 from
total cost.
“This Elements set is so versatile - not only can you
Call 01494 778818 or order at choose from any of these gorgeous colour options but
www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk varying the look is easy too”
VICKY LYNCH, CREATIVE BEADCRAFT DESIGNER

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 21
 P E O P L E & P L AC E S

Day in the
Life...
We track down jewellery
expert Kate Slovak at her
job at a top auction house
You might think that getting your HND in gemology, because I And, of course,
hands on sparkling antique jewels wanted some practical experience. soaking up the
on a daily basis is just for folk with To begin with I was excitement of the auction room is
a millionaire's lifestyle. But it's all in photographing jewellery for the all part of the job, too. Sellers
a day's work for Kate Slovak, who website and catalogues, and submit jewellery to Fellows for
is a trainee valuer at Fellows & generally helping out within the valuation; then it's listed in a
Sons. This auction house is based jewellery department. After catalogue and on the website to
in the heart of Birmingham's graduating, I was offered a full- attract potential buyers, who can
Jewellery Quarter, a section of the time job as trainee valuer with place bids online, by telephone or
city that has been home to some more responsibilities, including wait to handle the pieces at a
of the world's best goldsmiths and writing condition reports and viewing, which is held two days
jewellery makers for the past 200 insurance valuations.' prior to the sale. Kate enjoys the
years, with skills being passed ethos of working at the firm and
down between generations of winning bid offers her own novel take on the
craftspeople. So what happens during a typical idea of an auction house: 'I love
And working with antiques is working day? Well, the nature of the thought of working in what
certainly a family affair for Kate, this job means that two days are could be seen as a huge recycling
whose parents run a secondhand rarely the same, with Kate getting organisation, where jewellery isn't
book shop. 'Buying and selling involved with lots of varied thrown away but is used again or
antiques was a hobby of my dad's activities throughout the week. 'I taken apart to make fabulous
that meant as kids we were often could be photographing antique new pieces.'
going around fairs at the weekend. or modern pieces, updating the
And mum always loved vintage Fellows' website, helping clients vintage appeal
designs, rummaging through her find a specific item or researching For someone who deals with the
jewellery box is always a delight!' prices for an insurance valuation.' ultimate in bling everyday, you

practical magic
Landing her dream job at the jewellery jargon-buster
auctioneers was a case of Antique: a sought-after object valued for its age and craftsmanship
impressing staff when she bagged Auction: a means of selling usually secondhand items with buyers
a work experience placement. competing to place the highest bid
'I started at Goldwork: intricate decoration molded in precious metal gold
Fellows during Jet: a hard black mineral that is polished and set in jewellery
my second year Paste: a shiny glass used to make imitation gems
at the School of Tourmaline: a semi-precious stone often seen in vintage designs
Jewellery in Victorian: Jewellery made during the reign of Queen Victoria from
Birmingham where 1837 to 1901
I was studying for a
22 quickandcrafty.com
 P E O P L E & P L AC E S

might expect Kate to have

become a tad blasé about
jewellery. But on the contrary, she
always gets excited about new
pieces and often is very tempted
to buy a couple herself. 'I think it's
a combination of the beauty and
the history that I find so appealing,
as well as the workmanship. I like
imagining who has worn it in the
past and how it's ended up in the
auction room. If I had enough
spare cash, I'd have snapped up a
Victorian ring that we recently
sold. It was a large amethyst Photographing jewels
central stone surrounded by Kate gives valuations for for the auction
sales and insurance purposes house’s catalogue
enamel and goldwork decoration,
and was estimated at £400-£600.
In fact, the only down-side to my
job is not being able to buy every
piece of jewellery I fall in love
with!' Her favourite stones are pink
and green tourmalines, jet and
Victorian jewellery, which is highly
collectable. 'I also like chunky,
unusual designs, I have a 'vintage
clash' approach to jewellery!'
forward planning
For the future, Kate plans to learn
as much as she can about her
trade at Fellows as well as 'trying
on beautiful jewellery for a sneaky
hour or two in the office!' And the
advice that she gives to aspiring
auction whizkids is to 'get as much
work experience as you can,
qualifications are important but
on-the-job training, handling
jewellery, knowing its history and
place in the market is essential.'

find it
Fellows & Sons Auctioneers
0121 212 2131
www.fellows.co.uk Kate deals with
www.ukauctioneers.com the ultimate bling
on a daily basis

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 23
CATWALK call
Shake up greys with fuchsia and dress shell
with glass for eye-catching jewel pieces
The soft pink beads used here
are wound with strands of
thread and the perfect way to
add texture to projects. The
turquoise bracelet is perfect for
holidays, combining real shells
with fire-polished crystals.

essentials
✪ Faux pearls, 12mm
✪ Fashion beads, 12mm
✪ Craft chain: 1m, medium, silver
✪ Bead caps, silver
✪ Eye-pins, silver
✪ Jump rings, silver
✪ Ribbon, black organza
✪ Pliers: cutting & round-nose

shell set
✪ Shell beads with holes at each
end, blue
✪ Crystals, fire-polished
✪ Jump rings, large & medium
✪ Head-pins, silver
✪ Earring findings, silver
✪ Clasp

necklace
1 Using the eye-pins and bead
caps, wire up the pearls and
fashion beads so there is a loop
at both ends of every bead.
2 With jump rings and round-
nose pliers, attach the first
bead to the end of the chain.
3 Decide on the length of chain
you would like between each
bead and cut accordingly.
24 quickandcrafty.com
 MA K E I T

4 Continue to add sections of

Charms, beads and pearls create a
chain between the mixture of show-stopping jewellery statement – see more
fashion beads, alternate with ideas like these at www.thebeadscene.com
pink and grey faux pearls to
create a balanced effect. To
finish, tie lengths of ribbon to
chain links between the gems.

shell set
1 Using large jump rings and
round nose-pliers, join the
shells together until you've
achieved a bracelet length –
we used nine, a mixture of
hearts and flowers. Add the
clasp in the same way.
2 Wire up the fire polished
crystals (in a mixture of sizes)
using the head-pins.
3 Take the medium jump rings
and attach the crystal clusters
“Don’t make the
initial bracelet too stop&shop
loose, it needs to lie All materials for making these
to the larger rings that link
flat on the wrist to items available from
the shells.
www.thebeadscene.com
4 Make the earrings in exactly look its best” 01327 353638
the same way. STEPHANIE BURNHAM, DESIGNER

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 25
 P E O P L E & P L AC E S

Charms are not for shrinking

violets. They're actually the
ultimate in statement jewellery - a
perfect chance to release your
inner diva and express yourself in
sparkling jewels. Big, bold and
charm
school
Find out about the jewellery
jangly, a charm bracelet, necklace that's causing a stir with
or even ring can consist of your
must-have items in miniature - like fashionistas and craftistas alike
a kind of shopping wish-list.
Whether you love kitty cats, have a
passion for pretty stones or are a
total shoe addict, there's a charm
to suit. Designer Brenda Harvey
comments: 'I like charm jewellery
because you can incorporate into
it everything you love best. And
any minimalist sensibilities go
completely out of the window
when designing with charms; you
can be totally outrageous and get
away with it!' So whatever your
taste anything goes.
history buff
Now associated with cutting-edge
style, after some of the world's top
fashion houses like Louis Vuitton
and Juicy Couture started
producing them, charm jewellery's
origins are somewhat older. In fact,
the idea of charms probably dates
back to the Neolithic era, when
simple things like stones or wood
were carried around to bring good
luck or ward off evil spirits. But
charm jewellery as we'd recognise
it today, using precious stones and
metals, first appeared during
ancient Egyptian times. Then in
the Middle Ages, knights wore
charms on belts to represent
family origin and political standing.
But the biggest wave of charm
mania was in the early 20th
century, when Queen Victoria
started the craze for wearing small
lockets, glass beads and family

26 quickandcrafty.com
 P E O P L E & P L AC E S

crests hung on bracelets and accessories, worn to mark major

Chain (£3.50) from necklaces as decorative fashion rites of passage like graduations
www.panduro.co.uk jewellery. World War Two saw a and weddings. Today the
massive increase in charm popularity of vintage means that
jewellery as soldiers leaving charms are now widely collected.
foreign climes bought little And the most recent
handmade trinkets for their development is a new genre
sweethearts. By the 1950s, charm called Italian charm bracelets,
bracelets were must-have which are flat, modular links that
hook together with funky enamel

CLAIRE ARISTIDES, PINKY JEWELLERY

"Adding charms to your designs
brings more character to beads and
make lovely decorative finishing
touches. I especially like to use
metal charms with chain, as well as
chunky nuggets of semi-precious stones"

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 27
 pictures like bags, shoes and logos beauty and a key to good luck in a
Antique-finish charms printed on them rather than using new home. And semi precious
(£2.50 per pack of two) traditional dangling pieces. stones are attributed with many
www.panduro.co.uk and varied qualities, too. A quick
stone free
Charms are having another
search on the Internet will reveal
which stones would suit you.
moment in the spotlight right
now. Firmly in fashion favour, you
can find them everywhere from
tool box
And, of course, you'll need a chain
high street to high fashion houses. to attach the charms to; again this
So it's prime time to start making could be handmade from small
your own. Begin by gathering your coils of wire linked together or you
materials - this is a chance for can buy a silver or gold chain. It's
you to become a crafty worth investing in some tools;
magpie by making a wire cutters and a pair of pliers are
collection of your favourite all you need to get going. Don't
sparkly stuff. You could forget the fastenings - clasps are
make your own charms by needed to join the bracelet
threading beads or stones together, so you can wear it. Extra
together or buy shaped metal materials include: jump rings for
charms to attach to a homemade attaching charms to a chain,
necklace. Charms often have a giving them more swing;
symbolic meaning, for example a headpins for threading on beads;
Charm ring components heart would stand for love, while a and wire. These are the basics but
www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk
flower might refer to natural you could experiment with all

NATHALIE SALOMONS, PINK PALACE

“Traditional charm jewellery is made
from a precious metal with a selection of
matching charms suspended from it.
But now modern materials means that
there is a much greater scope to
produce funky designs using different
Heart charms materials like glass and plastic"
www.panduro.co.uk

charm meanings
✪ Star - wishes granted ✪ Shoe - glamour
✪ Shamrock - luck ✪ Heart - loved
Charm bracelet components
✪ Rose - beauty ✪ Handbag - prosperity www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk
✪ Postage stamp - good news ✪ Flower - blossoming love
✪ Owl - wisdom ✪ Car - adventure
✪ Key - happy home

28 quickandcrafty.com
 P E O P L E & P L AC E S

sorts of materials: 'Contemporary

designers have moved away from BRENDA HARVEY, Q&C DESIGNER
just using silver chain. Coloured wax "Charm jewellery is wonderfully
cord, ribbons and suede thonging tactile: it moves, sparkles and jingles
make ideal choices for hanging your in an almost magical way plus I think
charms and dramatically increase
your creative options,' says designer
it's fun, frivolous, flirty and very
Brenda Harvey.
girlie! In my own designs I like to
include silver charms of birds, flowers
know how
Simple techniques are easy to
or hearts together with glass
dropper beads threaded onto headpins. Glass beads are
master. Attach charms with jump good because they’re heavy and hang really well, which
rings and pliers; thread beads onto increases the sense of movement"
wire or headpins in rows or bend the
wire to form your own bead charms.
Jewellery designer Nathalie
Salomons suggests: 'Use charms in
clusters combined with beads or
readerOFFER
mix different materials such as metal,
glass and shell charms. They give a Charmed by Gabriella Sellors, published by
new look to what otherwise would Cico Books (£12.99) is available to Quick &
be just a string of beads. Charms Crafty! readers for the special price of £10.99 including free
personalise your p&p call 01256 302692 quoting N91
accessories so your
jewellery looks
unique.' So make a
statement and
look individual
in charm
jewellery - the
perfect
accessory for
the myspace
generation.

Jump rings (£1.60 per

pack) www.panduro.co.uk

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 29
 P R AC T I C A L MAT T E R S

wear
& care
Top tips from our
experts for looking
after jewellery

Constellation Beads
making supplies
So you've bought your beads,
found your findings and cut leave it to topple off the table.
your cord. But don't just dump Read our guide and learn stop metal spacers rusting,
new jewellery making gear in from the experts exactly how store your accessories properly
the nearest box - or worse to keep glass beads sparkly, and much more...

Keep gems shiny by rubbing

Dawn Small, them with a bead cloth
Bijoux Beads ✪ Use a bead mat when making
www.bijouxbeads.co.uk and cleaning jewellery to stop
01225 482024 beads rolling away
✪ Choose glass beads because
they are most durable. Plastic
or synthetic ones tend to
deteriorate over time
✪ Always keep findings away
from damp by storing in an
airtight container to stop them
rusting. Chalk placed in the
box with them will help
stop any dampness
✪ Keep jewellery away from
hairspray and perfumes that ✪ Keep tools oiled to stop glue
will discolour them sticking to them
✪ Nail varnish remover or ✪ Store cord and elastic on reels
alcohol is good for cleaning so it doesn't get tangled
glass beads and precious ✪ Stop wire kinking: loop it
stones - but don't use them on into a figure of eight and
plastic or synthetic ones fold it together

30 quickandcrafty.com
 P R AC T I C A L MAT T E R S

Stephanie Burnham,
The Bead Scene
www.thebeadscene.com, 01327 353639
"Our Booty Boxes are a great way of keeping your
beads together, the outer part has 20 flip-top containers.
Then store the finished pieces carefully, I keep mine in
plastic takeaway containers - clean ones of course!"
✪ Keep beads in tubes rather ✪ Don’t allow your jewellery to
than plastic bags to protect become a tangled mess! Buy a
them and so you can see the couple of hooks to hang
colours properly inside the wardrobe and
✪ Remember to keep beads in a drape long
cool, dry place so the dye on necklaces on
them doesn't run them to keep
them separate
✪ I store my beads in drawers:
one contains reds and pinks; ✪ Never wear precious
another blues and so on. Not jewellery on the beach as
only does this keep them neat sand will scratch it, and
and tidy, it also helps when the metal will become
designing as the shades are hot in the sun and
already sorted into tones could burn you

Stella Wardale,
Constellation Beads
Mattie Richardson, www.constellationbeads.co.uk
Bunyip Beads & Buttons 01833 621094
www.bunyipbeads.com, 01392 437377
"Being organised
"For beads that are as bright as the day you brought with your beads and
them, keep them out of the sun and the wash! And don't accessories is
pile pieces on top of each other or they'll get chipped" the best way
to produce
✪ Take care not to get leather ✪ Choose boxes with successful designs. So
cord wet because this moveable section dividers so sort beads as you buy
material holds moisture in its you can fit findings, thread them to save time
centre and will rot and snap. and pliers inside, too when you come to
So if you’re likely to forget to make
✪ Mats are essential when
take a necklace off before something
working with tiny beads
getting in the shower, use
cotton thread instead!
like rocailles or are
✪ A bead design board is a
looking for
✪ Keep glass beads in a plastic inspiration. I
storage box rather than a useful piece of kit, especially store beads by
metal tin because glass can as it has sections to stop
chip when shaken beads rolling away
type and by colour”

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 31
ceramic STYLE
Partner chunky beads with Swarovski
crystals for ultimate girlie glamour
These lovely ceramic beads are
handmade with a subtle finish
which give a superb two-tone
effect. They're available in many
shades and combine well with a
variety of beads to create
different looks. In the bracelet
they're teamed with Swarovski
and diamante rondelles for a
touch of glamour.

bracelet
1 Thread the beads onto the
stretch elastic so that each
enamel ceramic ball is
followed by a Swarovski bead,
a rondelle and another
Swarovski bead.
2 Tie the stretch elastic in a
double knot to secure: tie an
ordinary knot, one thread
over the other, then swap the
threads over and repeat to
make your double knot.

32 quickandcrafty.com
 MA K E I T

earrings
Thread a Swarovski bead onto a
headpin followed by an enamel
ceramic ball, another Swarovski
bead, a rondelle and a third essentials
Swarovski bead. Make a loop in bracelet
the headpin (see page 48) and
✪ Enamel ceramic balls, 16mm,
attach the fish hook.
eight (ECB2)
✪ Swarovski beads, bicones or round
stop&shop facetted, 6mm, 16 (CGB11/CGB2)
✪ Stretch elastic, 1mm, 1/2 metre
Ceramic Bracelet & Earrings (S123C)
Kit 4: five colourways ✪ Diamante rondelles, 5mm, eight,
(view online). (JS25)
Price: £13.45 (post included)
Discount: Buy three Creative earrings
Beadcraft kits featured in this ✪ Enamel ceramic balls, 16mm, two,
issue & receive £2.50 from ✪ Swarovski beads, 6mm, six
the total cost.
✪ Diamante rondelles, 5mm, two
Call 01494 778818 or go to
www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk ✪ Headpins, two (JF18)
✪ Fish hook earrings (JF57-2)

“I love mixing vibrant Swarovski crystals with muted

shades to create a look that is bang up to date. Grey
enamel and fuchsia pink is a blend I love at the moment”
VICKY LYNCH, CREATIVE BEADCRAFT DESIGNER

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 33
SUBSCRIBE to

for this month's fab free gift and money-saver offer

An incredible 13 issues for £37
PLUS exclusive JulesGems Zebra Plier
Set & 100g Mix of Indian See Quick&Crafty!
Glass Beads - March issue for
worth £34 further details
& to subscribe
by post

Subscribe online at

‘‘
The pliers feature foam grip
handles so using them is easy www.quickandcrafty.com
and comfortable. And the
super-stylish case will look Ring 01778 392493 -
great on your shelf, with its quoting Q&C 03/07

’’
fabulously furry zebra pattern!

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

34 quickandcrafty.com
 1 2

rock 'n' roll

Be a bohemian babe with sassy
stones and fabulous findings
Semi precious stones always make a statement, so
you'll never be trounced in the style stakes. Tiger
eyes are the gem of the moment thanks to the
animal print revival, but experiment with tapered
beads, novelty shapes and gemstone chips too.
6 Don't overlook the findings you choose either, 3

5 picking the right colour to match your stones is

1 Beads, from a selection
essential. If in doubt, go for gold, it's the new black, www.beadworks.co.uk
don't cha know! Bead caps, from 24p,
www.e-beads.co.uk
TOP TIPS 2 Pearls, £6.25 per string,
✓ Be careful when coordinating your findings. They www.julesgems.com
might be functional, but they still have to fit in with Eye pins, £1.50,
the look of your piece www.totallybeads.co.uk
✓ Make sure you conceal any knots beneath your 3 Butterflies, from 40p
findings with a blob of glue Spacer disc, 15p both
www.e-beads.co.uk
✓ Don't be too precious about the flaws in gemstones.
The beauty of them is their natural impurities, 4 Jade and aventurine
so flaunt them! briolette, £5.45 for 10
www.westcoastgemsand
4 beads.co.uk
Amethyst briolette, £1.50
www.kernowcraft.com
Jump rings, £1
5 Peridot chips, 36”strand,
£3.50 www.julesgems.com
Lobster clasps, £2.50
www.e-beads.co.uk
6 Tapered rhodonite set, £2.95
www.thebeadbazaar.co.uk
Screw catch, 15p each,
www.totallybeads.co.uk

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 35
 bead
barometer
We've known for ages that beads are back in
Follow our definitive guide to what's hot
and what's hotter when it comes to beads

a big way. This years love affair is with the

HOTTEST

bold. If you're stuck for inspiration, look no

further than our guide to what's really
making waves right now.
from Russia with love
Quirky is the key to original designs. We found
these cute Russian Doll beads for £2.70 for a set
of five at www.jillybeads.co.uk

touch of glass
Take a look at these handmade glass beads.
Perfect for using as striking focal beads in
your designs, the only problem is choosing
which ones to use! www.beadshop.co.uk hot to trot
Lift your outfit and your mood
giveAWAY arty heirlooms with a hit of the exotic. Pick out the
brightest hues available and wear them all at once.
Emma Ralph's delicious array of
lampwork beads are style Pink beads, www.westcoastgemsandbeads.co.uk
classics, ensuring that they Orange seed beads, www.beadsdirect.co.uk
remain steadfast favourites in Green beads, www.constellationbeads.co.uk
your jewellery box for years to Blue cylinders, www.kernowcraft.com
come. www.ejrbeads.co.uk Larger orange beads, www.thebeadscene.com

hooked
on crochet
We're suckers for crochet
take heart at Q&C!, so we were
instantly drawn to this
The A-Listers are still loving theirs, and we've got selection from
hundreds of ideas for these beautiful beads. Adopt www.jillybeads.co.uk and
the look now - it's not going away any time soon. pink fabric beads,
Blue hearts www.thebeadbazaar.co.uk www.thebeadscene.com. These pretty candy
Red hearts www.beadsdirect.co.uk colours will pep up your designs a treat!
36 quickandcrafty.com
BEADS UNLIMITED R
aka The Brighton Bead Shop
72 page Low
full colour Prices
catalogue £3.50
(UK) redeemable High
against first order stock
over £10 levels
Speedy
turnaround
Online of orders
shop

Use code
QCBB07 for your
free “Guide To Bead
Jewellery Making”
instruction booklet
with your first
order

www.beadsunlimited.co.uk
BEADS UNLIMITED
QCBB07, PO BOX 1, HOVE, BN3 3SG
E-MAIL: [email protected]
E-MAIL:
TEL: 01273
TEL: 01273 740777 FAX: 01273 740778
 Free Delivery to UK JILLYBEADS.COM
Westcoast
Gems & Beads
We supply both the useful & the unusual,
for jewellery making and other craft
products. Check our website for regular
Gemstones Pearls Czech Glass Sterling Silver Seed
Beads Charms Findings Kits Tools Wire updates of new & exciting products.
Books Beaded Accessories
Have Fun and Happy Beading!
Take a look at our ‘Beads of the Month’© Special Offers

A different selection of quality beads

www.jillybeads.com
each month complete with a colour T. 01524 412728 E. [email protected]
booklet which includes projects with Glass beads, Swarovski, Gemstones,
step-by-step instructions, photos, Findings, Mixes, Seed beads, Spacer beads,
diagrams, tips and techniques.
Shell, Wood and much more....

www.westcoastgemsandbeads.co.uk www.westcoastjewellery.com
Email - [email protected] Tel - 01928 723263

www.epbeads.co.uk
• Beads, Bead Mixes, Starter Kits,
• Jewellery Making Instructional DVD
• Tiara Making Supplies.
• New products constantly
being added to our website.

Tel: 01246 556988

www.epbeads.co.uk www.epbeads.com
quickandcrafty.com 38
 MA K E I T

shine ON
Combine ribbon with beads
for fashion-friendly accessories
that you can make in a flash

This kilt pin brooch is so simple

to copy and perfect for
trimming with your favourite
beading components. Mix
stones, charms and chains for
ultra-cool effect. Organza ribbon
looks classy when suspended
with a cluster of glistening gems
so simple, so stylish!

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 39
 MA K E I T

“Kilt pin brooches make

great gifts and are very
versatile. Here ribbon
textures work well with
organic-style beads and charms”
ALISON GALPIN, DESIGNER

essentials
✪ Jump rings brooch necklace
✪ Leather crimps/fold back clasps 1 Plait three lengths of organza 1 Take a metal necklace
✪ Ribbon, organza ribbon together and decorate connector and join a central
the top of the kilt pin, securing drop to the middle with a
✪ Necklace connector & drop
with small knots. Attach small jump-ring. Attach two colour
✪ Beads, co-ordinating lengths of chain with jump tones of co-ordinating beads
✪ Headpin rings to drape across and hang to the drop with headpins
✪ Lobster Clasp downwards in a loop. using the above method.
✪ Brooch 2 Take headpins and thread on 2 Cut two lengths of organza
✪ Chain your choice of beads. With wire ribbon to desired necklace
✪ Metal beads/Charms cutters, cut 1cm above your length. Thread through the
last bead and make a loop loops in the necklace

stop&shop with round-nose pliers. Place

beaded head-pins along a
section of chain and decorate.
connector and finish off by
attaching leather crimps or
fold back clasps to the ends of
All components for making
these items available from Attach charms with jump-rings the ribbon. Place a jump ring
www.epbeads.co.uk to the loops along the top of either side and finish with a
the pin or to links in the chain. lobster clasp on one side.
40 quickandcrafty.com
 Delica Beads size 11/0 in all colours - Seed Beads
size 15/0, 11/0, 8/0 and 6/0 for bead work,
embroidery, and knitting. Bugle beads, 2/cut/Hex
beads and Sequins.

Sterling Silver – Findings and Beads.

Gold & Silver plated finding.

Accessories – A New Range of Italian resin beads

Thread wire, Rattail,
Needles.

The London Bead Co. Ltd. Phone: 0870 2032323

339 Kentish Town Road Fax: 020 284 2062
London NW5 2TJ. Email: [email protected]
www.londonbeadco.co.uk

For fabulous ÀQGings, there’s now only one

number worth keeping ...0845 6449343
For the widest range.
Available in sterling silver,
gold fill and gold carat.
silver and gold sheet, and wire
cut to your requirements.

www.palmermetals.co.uk
Specialists in Precious Metals email: [email protected]
quickandcrafty.com 41
 ARTS AND
CRAFTS
North of the border Wide variety of
We are proud to stock the widest range of quality
beads, findings, tools and starter kits anywhere in Beading, Stones,
Scotland. Our range includes: Jewellery and findings.
• Miyuki Delicas, seed beads and cubes
• Bugles and rocailles
• Swarovski crystal
• Painting & Artist Materials •
• Foil-lined beads • Card Making •
• Fabulous range of ribbons
• Quality tools, bead-boards and looms • Scrapbooking •
• Books and magazines
• Glass Painting •
Great service, good advice and a relaxed and
friendly shopping experience. plus much more!!
29 Court Street, Haddington,
East Lothian EH41 3AE
Tel / fax: 01620 822886 Church Road, Wroxham,
E-mail: [email protected] Norfolk NR12 8UG
www.beadshophaddington.co.uk
Tel/Fax: 01603 783505

Stunning beads from all

Mail Order Specialists
over the world
The place to buy
Genuine Swarovski®
Unusual findings in Crystal
precious and
plated metals
Our Brilliant Hotfix Crystal
Applicator is complete with
a Starter Pack of Crystals,
Rhinestuds & Nailheads.
£19.95 plus £1.95 p&p.

Visit
www.BeadsandCrystals.co.uk
for Swarovski Crystal Beads,
Unique handmade Pendants, Flat Backs,
jewellery Sew on Stones, Pearls etc

Free UK Shipping
For Fast Delivery and Priority Service
buy online at www.BeadsandCrystals.co.uk
or you can phone your order through on 01476 593400.
email [email protected]

42 quickandcrafty.com
 P R AC T I C A L MAT T E R S

essential
tools Get to grips with the
basics of beading

It's easy to get excited about

the newest beads, and hottest
designs, but tools don't have
quite the same lure. All the
same, it's important to know
your nabber from your
reamers so here's a run down
of the essential supplies you'll
need to get started.

needles
Longer beading needles tend to
be favoured by jewellery makers,
as they work well for most
projects. A size 10 is probably the
most versatile sized needle to
use. The only exception is loom
work, when a size 13 needle is
the best. Find yours at
www.hiwaycraft.co.uk

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 43
essential
tools
bead reamer
Sometimes beads, especially gemstones aren't
drilled correctly, so it can be difficult to get needles
right through to the other side. The reamer is great
for smoothing and widening the holes in beads, as
well as softening any rough edges. Try this set of
four for £2.95 from www.jillybeads.co.uk

bead board
Always use a bead tray or board when you're
fiddling about with tiny beads in awkward shaped
boxes. It'll save you a lot of time and frustration! The
board is lined with material to stop the beads
rolling away and compartments keep them
together. Use it in conjunction with your bead
nabber and you'll take the stress out of jewellery
making! www.jillybeads.co.uk

round-nosed pliers
Pliers are a jewellery maker's best friend, and you can never
have too many pairs! Round-nosed ones are brilliant for
making perfect loops in wire. You can alter the size of the
shape according to the gradient of the pliers. The higher up
the wire is on the nose, the larger the hoop will be. They have
very fine tips to ensure that you can get them right into
intricate designs. Try these, £7.99 for a set of three pliers,
www.totallybeads.co.uk
44 quickandcrafty.com
 P R AC T I C A L MAT T E R S

bead loom
Okay, so this isn't an essential,
but it's worth having a go on
one to see if it's your cup of
tea. Looms weave beads
into long strips and can
achieve really intricate
designs with very little
fiddling about! They're
often used to make Native
American-style bracelets,
but they're fantastic for
creating bead cloth too. Start off
with a basic one. As they tend to be
fairly cheap, you can move on to more
complex ones as you progress. Try this
one from www.jillybeads.co.uk for
£6.50 to begin with.

flat-nosed
pliers
These are ideal to grip bead nabber
small pieces, such as The bead nabber, sometimes called a
jump rings in place. It's thimble, will save you from those infuriating
preferable to use two moments when you're trying to thread a
sets of pliers when opening tiny seed bead that just won't cooperate.
and closing jump rings, so that Pop this over your index finger and the tiny
they can be twisted, not bent out gems will stick to the stippled surface and
of shape. Pick up these, £18.80 for a hold them in place, allowing you to thread
case of five tools. www.jillybeads.co.uk them easily. Pick up this board
for £2.95 from
www.jillybeads.co.uk

chain-nosed pliers
These pliers are used to bend wire at
right-angles to open and close tiny
chain links. Their pointed noses are
round on the outside and flat on the
inside to allow them to fold in loose
wire ends in tight places. £7.99 for a
set of three, www.jillybeads.co.uk

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 45
essential
tools
wires & threads
Choosing the correct wire is so important. There
are so many to choose from, such as nylon
and plastic-coated metal wire. Experiment
with several types to see what works best
for each project. The same goes for
threads, but try DMC's Desire Memory
Thread for starters. It can be
sculptured into any shape and
comes in 12 colours, so there's loads
of scope! Click on www.dmc.com to
get hold of some. Coloured wire
from £1 www.jillybeads.co.uk.

wire cutters
These are sometimes known as side cutters or
flush cutters. The difference is that flush cutters
cut closer so they don't leave sharp edges
poking out, and are often preferred. Never cut
wire with scissors, as it will inevitably blunt them,
if not ruin them altogether. However, wire
jewellery glue cutters shouldn't be used on memory wire, as it
tends to chip the blades. Buy memory wire
There are lots of different jewellery cutters to do the job instead. These are £7.99 for
glues available for various materials, but a set of three, www.totallybeads.co.uk
this one is a great all-rounder to use on
wood, metal, plastic and glass. Use it to
secure knots and occasionally to fix
findings into place. www.e-beads.co.uk

crimping pliers
Designed specifically to attach crimp beads
with a professional finish, leaving them
smooth and rounded. Try this pair, part of a
case of five, £18.80, www.jillybeads.co.uk

46 quickandcrafty.com
 E-Beads
Fantastic
Choice
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Exclusive to all readers*

Beading Centre of the North

NEW WEBSITE goes
LIVE 26th February!! Coupon: Q&C0703
Packed full of glass pearls, semi precious, pendants, *Valid from 22/02/07 to 15/04/07
shells, copper fittings, Miyuki beads… Also available
Beading Classes, on-line projects. If you are in North
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Opening Times: Mon-Fri 9.30am to 4.00pm collection and order now:
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Welcome to Bead Heaven
or Call us now on
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T: 01833 621094 F: 01833 621098 0845 838 1443
E: [email protected]
W: www.constellationbeads.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 47
 P R AC T I C A L MAT T E R S

BASIC techniques
Fixing, clasping and making loops…. it's all here!
Making loops using eye-pins & head-pins
1 Thread your chosen beads
onto a head-pin. 4 Keep hold of wire with flat-
nose pliers and using
round-nose pliers bend

2 Cut about 1cm above the

beads.
the end into a loop.

3 Using flat-nose pliers bend wire

to a right-angle.
5 Use the same technique with eye-pins to create
a chain of beads effect. This can be used to make
simple earrings, or on bracelets and necklaces.

Using tiger tail or Beadalon for necklaces and bracelets

1 Measure the cord, allowing 20cm

extra. Thread a crimp onto the
end followed by a clasp.
4 Thread beads followed by another
crimp and the other side of the clasp.
Pull the threads back through the
second crimp and two or three beads

2 Thread back though the crimp to

form a loop around the clasp.
and pull tight with pliers.
Squash the crimp and
cut off excess thread.

3 Using pliers slide the crimp up to

the clasp leaving a tiny excess for
the movement. Squash flat
with flat-nosed
pliers/crimpling tool.

Using monofilament, Nymo or Silamide for necklaces & bracelets

1 3 Tie a knot loosely and using a

pin pull the knot down into
the calotte.

Tie a knot in one end of string, add calotte and

close cup around the knot (make sure all of
your knots are big enough so they don't come
through the hole in the calotte).

2 Add your beads and the other calotte with the

cups open towards the free end of thread. 4 Close cups and simply add clasp
to loop on calotte.
48 quickandcrafty.com
 P R AC T I C A L MAT T E R S

Making a slip knot

Tie the right end around the left strand and the left end
1 around the right strand. You may now adjust the necklace
or bracelet to the size you wish. This is especially good
for pulling necklaces over the head or getting hands
through bracelets.

JEWELLERY FINDINGS
Earring fittings Crimp Beads

JF21 Actual size How to open a jump ring to

retain the shape & strength
JF12 JF79

JF57 (pierced fitting)

Clasps Headpins & Eye-pins

JF4 JF18/19

JF6

JF54 (non-pierced) JF84A

JF2 - 7mm Reproduced courtesy of Creative Beadcraft Limited (codes refer to catalogue numbers)

JF75 Headpins for making

drop earrings by threading
Necklace Ends JF13 (actual size) with beads
Calottes

JF55 Jump Rings

JF60 JF14

Spring Ends
JF15 JF80/20
JF87A
JF16
Eye-pins for threading
JF123 beads onto and attaching
JF17 to other pins

Bead Dazzle sponsored by Creative Beadcraft www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

quickandcrafty.com 49
 MA K E I T

candy GIRL
Master threading
for success on this
crystal charmer

Begin by taking an arm’s length

of nymo thread, double it. Tie
one end to the heart clasp and
and come back for the second “The degree mark next
leave a 4cm tail to sew in later.
row (do not cut thread). to the size is called an
With a beading needle follow
the pattern:- 3 Pass back through the 6/o, and ‘ought’ and is a
then form another strand of traditional beading
seed beads; back into the next symbol.The smaller the
1 Pick up one x 6/o seed beads
6/o, around candy jade, out of number the larger the bead,
followed by five x 11/o beads, a
6/o again. Form another 6/o is larger than 11/o”
6/o, a wavy candy jade and a
separate strand of seed beads
6/o. Pick up two x 11/o, a metal STELLA WARDALE,
– add a heart or metal flower
heart , three x 11/o, a 6/o the CONSTELLATION BEADS
in the middle of the strand.
barrel candy jade, a 6/o.
2 Thread seven x 11/o, a metal
daisy, three x 11/o and a 6/o,
4 Once you reach the heart end,
repeat back down the bracelet
forming three separate bead
stop&shop
the large crystal and a 6/o. Pick These beads and many others
strands. Tie the thread at the
up seven x 11/o, a 6/o, pink available from, 01833 621094
clasp end and work the tail in.
pearl , 6/o, one x 11/o, a metal www.constellationbeads.co.uk
heart, one x 11/o, one x 6/o, 5 Drop a heart charm from a Q&C! Readers can purchase a
round candy jade, 6/o, eight x middle section of the bracelet. complete kit for £9.95
11/o, 6/o. Check for length. Use two jump rings and a (includes postage)
Sew end to the other clasp half piece of chain to secure it.
50 quickandcrafty.com