Versatile Pencil Beads: Jewelry Making and Crafting Ideas

The Versatility of Pencil Beads

Pencil beads are small tube-shaped beads that resemble the shape of an unsharpened pencil. These versatile beads come in a variety of colors and can be used to create all kinds of jewelry pieces and craft projects. Their cylindrical shape gives them a clean and modern look.

What are Pencil Beads?

Pencil beads are long, narrow beads that have a tubular shape resembling pencils. They typically range from 10mm to 20mm in length and have a diameter of 2mm to 5mm. The holes in pencil beads go all the way through, allowing them to be strung and connected easily. These beads come in a rainbow of colors like red, blue, green, yellow as well as metallic shades like silver, gold and copper.

Using Pencil Beads in Jewelry Making

Pencil beads have many applications in jewelry making. Their sleek, slender shape gives them a contemporary look that works well in various designs:

• Necklaces - Pencil beads can be used to create chokers as well as long statement necklaces. They look great on simple leather or waxed linen cords.
• Bracelets - Layer pencil beads of alternating colors on elastic cord to make funky stacking bracelets.
• Earrings - Connect pencil beads end-to-end and attach ear wires to create modern linear earrings.

In addition to using solid color pencil beads, you can also connect beads with two or more colors layered together for a striped effect. This works well in boho or tribal-inspired designs.

Crafting with Pencil Beads

Pencil beads also work beautifully for all kinds of arts and crafts projects:

• Ornaments - String pencil beads together with crystals and chains to make glamorous Christmas tree ornaments.
• Keychains - Use chunky pencil beads to spell names or initials on custom keychains.
• Embellishments - Glue pencil beads onto candles, vases, frames to add some glitz.
• Kids Crafts - Pencil beads of various sizes and textures are perfect for preschool and young kids to thread and stack to make jewelry and art.

Acquiring Pencil Beads for Crafting

Pencil beads are easily available both online and in specialized retail craft stores. When buying them, pay attention to the following aspects:

• Size - If making jewelry, opt for 10-15mm size beads. For kids' projects, larger sizes 15-20mm work better for little hands.
• Materials - Pencil beads can be acrylic, glass, wood, metal and more. Each material gives a distinct look & feel.
• Colors - Look for multi-packs with a wide range of colors to have plenty to choose from.
• Quality - Examine beads closely for clean cut ends, no cracks, and consistency in size/shape.

Buying in small multi-packs allows experimenting with colors and sizes economically. For big projects, bulk pencil bead packs with 100-500 beads can save money.

Pencil Bead Jewelry Design Inspiration

Here are some gorgeous ways jewelry artists are styling pencil beads in their trendy designs:

Boho Chic

The laidback bohemian style pairs perfectly with pencil beads. Long tassel earrings with pencil beads capturing crystals and statement necklaces with colorful beads stacked on suede cording have a relaxed vibe. Weaving pencil beads into braided friendship bracelets adds artisanal texture.

Glamorous Sparkle

For serious bling, combine pencil beads with sparkling crystals and metallic beads like Miyuki cubes or sequins. Dripping strands of beads work for Hollywood-worthy statement necklaces. Stack glittering bracelets mixing silver, gold and rose gold pencil beads.

Tribal Vibes

The natural tones and textures of wood, bone, shell and gemstone beads pair gorgeously with pencil beads to create tribal-inspired jewelry. Layer earthy shades of pencil beads with carved wood spacers for boho tassel earrings. Combine bands of colored pencil beads with feather charms in bracelets.

Pencil beads offer versatility for all kinds of handmade jewelry and crafts. Their simple form allows them to be combined creatively with all types of materials. Whether going for a minimalist or maxed-out style, pencil beads weave their own special magic. Let your imagination run wild while crafting with these little tubes of possibility!

FAQs

What are pencil beads made of?

Pencil beads can be made from various materials like acrylic, glass, wood, bone, metal and more. Acrylic is lightweight and affordable but glass has more shine. Wood has an organic look while metallic beads add glitz.

How do I string pencil beads?

Use a flexible beading wire or soft multi-strand thread. A needle helps pass the wire through pencil beads smoothly without fraying the ends. Leave enough wire/thread between beads for shaping the jewelry.

Can I mix pencil beads with other beads?

Absolutely! Combining different sizes, shapes and textures of beads creates interest. Try layering small rounds or cubes alongside pencil beads. Or use sparkly crystals as accents. Contrasting colors and metals also looks cool.

How durable are pencil bead crafts?

Pencil beads are quite sturdy for jewelry and crafts use. Opt for quality beads without cracks or blemishes. Avoid overstretching or crushing them. Handle any wirework smoothly without kinks which can lead to breakage.

What’s the best way to buy pencil beads?

Check craft stores for good deals on multi-packs so you can get an assortment of sizes and colors. For major projects, consider bulk packs of 100+ from online stores to save money. Check reviews for reliability before ordering.