June Bead Stash Favorites

There are so many different ways that a bead style can become an instant favorite. Perhaps it’s the color or shape, ease of use, or the way it fits perfectly into our favorite designs. Whatever the reason, some beads just inspire love at first sight. Right now I have my heart set on a few different accents in my stash, all of them ready and waiting for the perfect project.

Whenever I need a spool of Fireline, I set a little budget and go on the hunt for new bead treats to include in my order. I usually stock up on some favorite seed bead colors, and then keep my eyes open for some interesting accents to try. During my last shopping session, I decided it was time to finally give the Swarovski Elements gemstone pearl colors a shot. Luckily, Fusion Beads has their own custom mixes, and this one called Siren caught my eye. It includes dark lapis, ivory, jade, turquoise, and red coral, but I see lapis, alabaster, turquoise, blue faience, and carnelian! These should come in handy in some upcoming Egyptian designs.

Awhile back I purchased some teal coconut rondelles on a whim, and ended up devouring them rather quickly. Every project I added them to seemed to turn out perfectly. Since then, I’ve had my eyes open for other lightweight heishi and rondelles, which make great accents for collars. These bone spacers from Happy Mango Beads definitely fit the bill. They’re a little larger than what I’m used to using, so I’ll have to make sure that whatever project they end up in has room for bold fringe. I’m very eager to cut the string and see what they can do.

Finally, I have some neglected beads. Several months ago I purchased these three strands of gorgeous blue Czech teardrops from Shipwreck Beads to use in collars and was very excited to work with them - especially the transparent cobalt. I placed each one in the tray that I use for shaped seed beads like Tilas, peanuts, and magatams. And because I hardly ever use these types of beads, I quickly forgot all about these lovely strands. I rediscovered them recently while looking for spiral rope accents, and I’ve bumped them back up to must-use status.

Do you have any new-found bead loves right now?

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