How to Finish a Bead Weaving

Beads woven into designs require a secure finishing technique.

Bead weaving with seed beads can take many forms. Jewelry is created from weaving patterns that stitch beads together with thread and a special beading needle or on a loom. Once the weaving design is complete, it is often attached to a clasp with knotting for a necklace or bracelet. If the bead weaving is designed for a broach or attachment to clothing, it is finished in the same manner.

Things You'll Need

• Bead weaving
• Bead thread
• Bead needle
• Scissors
• White glue
• Toothpick
• Match

Instructions

1. Finish the bead weaving by traveling through the final seed bead on the weaving at least three times with the bead needle and thread.

2. Tie a secure double knot with the beading thread, using the needle the make the knots.

3. Cut the thread with the scissors, leaving a 4-inch tail.

4. Dot the knot with the white glue, using the toothpick. Let the glue dry for 20 minutes.

5. Strike the match and set the thread tail on fire, blowing out the flame before it reaches the thread knot. The flame will create a secure and soft end to the thread that will not irritate the jewelry wearer.

References

• “Bead Weaving Stitches”; Kalmbach Publishing Company; 2004
• “The Elegance of Beadweaving”; Carol Wilcox Wells; 2003