Ask Dr. Beader

Ask Dr. Beader™

"An ounce of beading is worth a pound of psychoanalysis" ™

Got a question?  Ask Dr. Beader

Q.  What are mood beads?

A.  Mood beads, also known as Mirage beads, are covered with a thermotropic liquid crystals which reflect different wavelengths of light based on the body temperature of the person who is wearing it. The bead then changes color according to the body temperature.  Click here for a Mood Bead Color Chart.

Q. How do I finish off a bracelet made with elastic cord?

A.  I use a surgeon’s knot.  It is simple and holds very well.  Then add a little clear glue or clear nail polish to hold.  If you want to hide the knot, sometimes you can pull the knot through a bead with a large hole.  See picture above.  Start by tying a normal knot.  Then, tie the second part of the knot by looping one end over the other twice.  Pull all four strands very tight. 

Q. What is the difference between tiger tail and other beading wire?

A.  Tiger tail is several strands of beading wire encased in a plastic coating and has been around for a long time.  I prefer using Beadalon® beading wire because it comes in lots of different choices for my designs. The more the strands the more flexible the wire.  Most bead artists use 49 strand Professional Series.  I use 19 strand for many of my own personal jewelry designs.  Seven strand is great for playing around with a design because the price is lower and I can afford to waste some.  Beadalon® has just come out with some great colors to use for floating necklaces.

Q.   I like Nymo because the cost is lower than other stringing materials.  However it shreds after going through the beads once or twice.  Am I doing something wrong?

A.  I, also, like Nymo for its low cost and strength.  Several years ago, I learned that Nymo has a grain to it.  The manufacturer puts the thread onto the bobbin or spool against the grain.  The secret to using Nymo is to thread your needle before cutting it off of the bobbin or spool.  Also, slightly stretch it as your work over time may sag.  Always condition your thread with either Thread Heaven or bee’s wax.

Q.  What is the difference between the seed beads in the tubes and the ones hanging from hanks?

A.  Most of the time the beads in the tubes are seed beads manufactured in Japan.  The Japanese seed beads are considered the highest quality amd most consistent in size & shape with lots of colors.  The ones on the hanks are usually from the Czech Republic or China.  These tend to be lower in price, inconsistent in size & shape and does not offer as many colors.  Both have their place in projects.  For consistency choose Japanese seed beads in the tubes.

Q. I use Japanese seed beads and still have to sort through them because there are some that are irregular. Why?

A. Nature is not flawless, so why should we expect manmade things to be? There is nothing manufactured that is 100% perfect. Although Japanese seed beads are considered the highest quality of the seed bead world, you still may find about 5-10% that are irregular. Culling or sorting is a standard practice if you want to find the ideal beads for your projects.

Q.  Why am I so attracted to beads?

A.  Beading like knitting, crocheting, quilting, or other hobbies, helps to reduce the stress level in your life.  You are attracted to beads because you love to touch and fondle them.  They have an almost magical way about them.  Also, beaders, like other hobbyists, like to be around other beaders who speak the same language.  The wonderful language of Bead.  Beading is a safe and healthy addiction.  Beading soothes the soul.  Go to Frani's Beads at Midtown Center in Pueblo, CO to satisfy your bead needs.

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