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- Step-by-step instructions
- Helpful diagrams and illustrations
- A list of everything you’ll need
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Getting Started
Crystal beads are available in a wide range of colors. It’s possible to find the perfect color and finish for any beaded project. Crystal beads aren’t surface dyed, like some beads. Instead, they gain their color through chemical elements added during the glass-making process.
These high-quality beads also come in a wide variety of shapes. The round and diamond (bicone) shapes familiar to most beaders are just the beginning. Cubes, ovals, rondelles, saucers, drops, and hearts are only some of the shapes available.
When purchasing crystal beads, choose high quality over low price. To qualify as full-leaded crystal, beads need to be composed of at least 24% lead oxide. The finest crystal beads have 32%. Look for finely cut facets, distinct hues, and high-quality surface treatments. Paying just a bit more per bead will improve the look of a piece tenfold, giving it a distinctive and professional look.
Skill Level
- Experienced Beginner
Materials
- 4 sapphire AB 10mm top-drilled (front to back) crystal heart beads
- 1 crystal AB 20mm top-drilled (front to back) crystal crescent bead
- 6 sapphire 8mm crystal bicone beads
- 12 crystal AB 8mm crystal helix beads
- 3 aqua 16 x 11mm top-drilled (front to back) crystal baroque pendants
- 36 sterling silver 2-1⁄2mm round beads
- 36 sterling silver 5mm daisy spacer beads
- 4 sterling silver 7 x 10mm spiral charms with loop
- 4 silver-plated pinch bails
- 18 sterling silver 2" (5 cm) head pins
- 12 sterling silver 20-gauge 5.5mm jump rings
- 16 sterling silver 8mm jump rings
- 14-gauge dead-soft sterling silver wire, 30" (76.2 cm)
Tools
- Wire cutters
- Round-nose pliers
- Chain-nose pliers
- Flat-nose pliers
- Hammer
- Steel block
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