I uploaded some of my refreshed beaded bead patterns. Perfect for all skill levels and a great way to use up those leftover beads you have lying around. Check them out now through the link: ShilaBeads

My Go-To Thread for Beadwork


Finding the perfect thread for beadwork can be frustrating, but it doesn't have to be! Let me share my experience with FireLine.
I think it's much easier to choose the right thread for beading now than it used to be. There is a much larger selection on the market, and bead manufacturers have also started producing beading threads. The best reason is that they know what is the most suitable for their own product. However, let's see what you must consider to find the right one. I'm not going to write about it in intense detail. I prefer to share my own experience. Don't forget, the correct size thread is key for your beadwork!

So, when I started to discover the beading techniques, I started with a cheap, basic, clear fishing line. After gaining experience, I realized it was challenging to work with, so I looked at other threads. I found FireLine, and since then, I have worked with it and used it 90% of the time during my work. It wasn't that simple, because choosing the right size for your job is very important. You can find it specifically for beadwork, but it is pretty expensive. I use it a lot, so again, I find myself in the fishing shop hunting for a new one. Surprise, I also found the FireLine there and tried it. When I use both my hands, the beads get a little discolored, so I use the smoke color for the darker and metallic beads and the clear one for the lighter ones. I need to mention that the smoke FireLine adds a unique antique charm to finished pieces.

I typically use a FireLine with a diameter of 0.15 mm because it gives good stiffness to the beadwork. I also have small spools of -150 m- 0.12 and 0.17 mm for different projects. One more thing: I find these goodies at better prices out of peak time.


The only downside is that it is not flexible, so I don't use it for jewellery, where it can break under tension, no matter how strong.

- Disadvantage: non-flexible

You can see the difference between FireLine and other beading threads.

Flattening the end of the thread with pliers before threading it through the needle makes the process much easier. Using flat or bent nose pliers, gently squeeze and flatten a few mm on the end of the thread.

Stay tuned for my next post, where I'll explore other beading threads! And let me know in the comments – what's your favorite thread and why?" 

In my patterns -SHILABEADS- I mention the thread and size I used.

I am excited to announce that I will slowly upload restored patterns to the Shila Beads Etsy Shop! I have honed my skills over the years, and I can now present my designs in more detail and clarity. Furthermore, I cherish those ideas that have stood the test of time. They get a new outfit for a new opportunity. I'm a bit behind on editing the latest pieces right now. But it's better late than never! True?


Let me introduce you to one of my favorite designs, the Dragon Dance Reloaded 2, an upgraded version of the original in Beadwork Magazine. As a special thank you, I offer for this pattern a 20% discount at checkout with the coupon code: BLOGVISITOR - for a week, ends at midnight on the 12th of January 2025.

Don't miss out on this opportunity - check out the link below:

ShilaBead Shop

 

Here is a beautiful, huge, finished 3D peyote Star, which Lady Lunar Cat designed.

             As we approach the most festive time of the year, I'd like to thank you for following my beading creations and supporting my small business. In my new store, you can buy some of my tutorials at a 50% discount until the end of the year. I hope to see you again next year when more of my refurbished patterns and new designs will be available. Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!!

https://shilabeads.etsy.com

https://shilabeads.patternbyetsy.com

It was a very long process, but I have finished the five warped squares for five rays of a 3D star. I'll show you the finished piece soon, too.
 

I had to stop the last Christmas star design because I wanted to make another design for my friend's birthday. I chose a traditional Christmas color combination because it matches her holiday decoration. Below is the pattern I chose for LadyLunarCat.

 

I brought you stud earrings that can be made quickly. You can easily add bead loops suitable for any ear wires.

S h i l a B e a d s

ShilaBead Shop

 The pattern that has been renovated and listed today is the ring👇

Here is a new pattern of my designs. It can be an excellent piece for a festive occasion, even Christmas Eve. However, the name is deceiving, but let's think positively. The teardrops can also be tears of joy. True?

A beginner can easily make it. Lovers of the boho style only have to replace the crystals with colored fire-polished or pressed beads and simultaneously pile several bracelets on their hands.

ShilaBead Shop on Etsy

 

Many blessings for good vibes and positive energy and, of course, for a click on the ads on the right or below. Or anywhere ;)
Love,
Shila

Two warped square components are done ;)

I want to share some advice about this 3D star ornament pattern and the process.

About the pattern:

The pattern, crafted by JuliaPatternUA, stands out with its unique, eye-catching color choice. However, using primarily matted beads softens the traditional festive mood of Christmas, giving it a distinct and modern twist. 

The file contains:

1. The colours of delica beads with numbers and the amount needed for each, not a gram, numbers only. It is easy to count the grams using the following data: 7.2g. contain - depending on the coating of the beads - 1358 - 1378 beads.

2. The pattern image is very blurry, so you can't coordinate it with your piece if you are finished. The photo shows only the dividing lines between the warped squares.

3. The word chart of the pattern, for me, has a slightly bothering style of letters. Just an idea: You can memorize five letters together because when you add the beads, you read them don't one by one. That may have made the piece faster.

That's all, no extra words or anything. I like it. With a couple of minor changes, it is enough for me to finish my larrikin piece.

About the thread:

I don't recommend Fire Line for this piece. It is better to use some flexible thread. I used a tan color, but any natural color can be good.

Use nearly 1.2 m of thread, no more and the silicon thread conditioner as often as possible.

If I made a mistake and needed to open more than 10 stitches, I cut the thread and added a new one. 

I secured the tails on the backside.

To be continued......