Tuesday 14 September 2010

My Beading Diary

St. Petersburg chain 
My second go at St. Petersburg chain.  This time with embellishment!  The 'beady eyed' among you may notice a tiny mistake here, but hey that's what learning is all about!

Sunday 5 September 2010

Beading Basics

20 gauge (0.8mm)  and 26 gauge (0.4mm)  wire  
Metal Wire


Gold plated, sterling silver, silver plated, copper, coloured - the list of the types of wire available is long!


Different thickness of wire is good for different things.

A 20 gauge wire (0.8mm diameter) is a thicker wire and is good for making findings, spirals, and ornamental designs.

The higher the gauge number the thinner the wire becomes.

A 26 gauge wire (0.4mm diameter) is a thinner wire and good for twisting and tiara making.


I suggest these two gauges as a starting point.


Wire is sold in 'spools'.  What a  great word 'spool'!



Follow this link to see the different gauges available at Beads Unlimited:  

http://www.beadsunlimited.co.uk/Gold-plated-wire/bo916

Saturday 4 September 2010

My Beading Diary

St. Petersburg chain - Done!! 
Here it is - and I can't quite believe it!  St.Petersburg chain completed!!   I am pretty chuffed with my first attempt.

Thursday 2 September 2010

My Beading Diary

I have never, ever, attempted any kind of 'sewing' beading before.

I saw a free video over at Bead TV on how to make St. Petersburg chain
and thought I'd give it a try.... wish me luck!!
St. Petersburg chain in the making!