Here are a list of Basic Tools that you will need for your beading.

 

1. Some Sharp Scissors.  I have found that if you are working with really cheap beading string that you can find at a big name store that has the initials WM If you do not have sharp scissors it just shreds and seperates the thread.  They can be dollar store scissors too just make sure that they cut good.

 

2. A hard workspace like a table.  Pick a place where you can leave your project and come back to it with out it being moved or messed up by your neat freak spouse or children.  I have read in books where they tell you to put down light and dark pieces of cloth so you are able to see your project and have a easy clean up. 

 

3.  Small Clamps or Clips.  To use when you are not working.  To make sure that any work that you have done does not end up all over the floor.

 

4.  T-Pin or any other type of needle that you are comfortable with to use in making knots.

 

5.  Stopper Bead.  Some people use this instead of a knot at the start of their project.  A stopper bead is a removable bead that is used to prevent beads from falling off also to keep the tension in your beadwork.  If you do choose to use this make sure you use a bead of a different color to make sure which one it is when you finish your project and go to remove it. 

 

6.  Good Lighting.  I have found that this is the key to getting your work done faster espically if you plan to work with seed beads like I do.  It also comes in handy when you drop a bead (or half a box of beads) on the floor.  Make sure that you work where it is well lighted and that you have no shadows blocking the light from your work.  Cheap desk lamps work really good for this.

 

7.  Ruler or Measuring Tape.  If you are working on a project that tells you that you have to have strands of beads a certain length instead of telling you how many bead are in each strand.  Usually projects will tell you how many beads to use and what type of beads to use.  Also if you are working on jewelry it helps to have a board that you put your beads in a row on it and you can tell how long the piece of jewelry you are working on is.

 

8.  Beeswax.  Wax is used to condition nylon threads.  It makes the thread stronger, easier to maintain a firm tension, and less likely to become tangled.  It is best used when working with a doubled thread as it helps the two ends stick together.  After threading your needle run the thread through the wax then through your fingers to remove excess.

 

9.Thread Conditioner. Use exactly like beeswax.  Basically this is an alternative to beeswax.

 

10. Bead Reamer.  This is used to enlarge the holes on stone and pearls.  They come in manual and electric.