Take a bit of wood, drill it and sand it into a pretty shape, and you have a wonderful, natural bead that can be used in macramé, jewelry and hundreds of other craft projects. But that is just where the fun begins. Wooden beads are so wonderfully versatile, and can be used many ways that glass beads can’t.
Wooden beads can be painted, dyed or stained in any color, with any design or pattern. They can be covered with other materials to add color or texture. They can even become the base for beaded beads. And because wood beads are so light, they can be used in large quantities to make big, chunky jewelry that just couldn’t be created with glass, metal, or even plastic.
If you’re looking for a fun new way to make your own unique focals, try embellishing some wooden beads! A few great projects to try are:
Shredded Junk Mail Necklace with wooden beads and felt, by Jennifer Perkins
Decoupage Wooden Beads with rubber stamping techniques by Carolyn Hasenfratz
Fabric Covered Bead Necklace by Twirling Betty
Have fun!
Copyright 2010 Inspirational Beading
Thanks oodles for the mention!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! I keep choosing these tough beads that never have any tutorials. I was lucky to find three that are really awesome.
ReplyDeleteI am trying to find wooden beads made from willow tree wood. Would you happen to know any online suppliers that carry them? thank you so much!
ReplyDeleteHi Jamie!
ReplyDeleteI haven't come across any willow beads in my travels. Etsy and Google were no help, either.
One place to look would be the farmers markets and craft fairs in your area. Even if you can't find the exact beads you want, you might be able to find an artist that can make them custom for you.
Good luck!