Stringing Materials
There are so many stringing materials to choose from for creating beaded jewelry. Remember that the string serves as the backbone to your design; therefore it is always best to use the strongest material possible to ensure you can enjoy your jewelry for many years to come.
A. Stretchy Cord
Sold under a variety of brand names, stretchy cord is typically clear elastic cording ideal for making
bracelets that can be slipped on and off without a cumbersome clasp. If you are using heavy beads,
consider stringing your beads onto two lengths of cording to ensure your design consistently springs
back into shape.
B. Tiger Tail
Also called flexible beading wire, tiger tail is the most common stringing material used for beaded jewelry. It is made of multiple wires twisted together that have been coated with nylon and is available in a variety of diameters ranging from very fine (.012”) to very thick (.026”). Consider the smallest hole size as well as the transparency of the beads in your project when selecting tiger tail.
C. Transite
Clear monofilament also known as “fishing line”, transite is a clear stringing material with very little stretch, making it ideal for illusion or “floating” designs.
D. Leather, Suede, Cotton and Fibers
Natural fibers add color and texture to beaded jewelry. They are available in a variety of widths and can be used to create simple to more elaborate designs.
E. Wire
Wire has become an increasingly important material in fashion jewelry. It comes in a variety of thicknesses or malleability including: dead soft, half hard, and full hard and is typically sold in spools or in continuous lengths and is offered in a variety of gauges from 26 ga (extremely fine) to 18 ga (thickest gauge available). Remember, the higher the gauge, the thinner and more delicate the wire. The most commonly used wire gauges are 22 and 24.
F. Chain
Chain is everywhere! From fine, delicate chain to large, open links adding chain to your design immediately conveys “modern”. Consider interspersing beaded eye pins between links of chain and even using individual chain links as decorative jump rings.
Common Bead Sizes
Common Strand Lengths
| TYPE | LENGTH | TYPE | LENGTH |
| Bracelet | 7 in | Matinee | 24 in |
| Anklet | 10 in | Opera | 36 in |
| Choker | 16 in | Rope | 48 in |
| Princess | 18 in |