How to make your own bead loom bracelet

You will need

• Bead loom
• Miyuki Delica beads
• Beading thread
• Beading needle
• Scissors
• Clasp and end findings
• The book “Kvinde, kend dine perler” (patterns and inspiration, in Danish)

Prepare the loom and weave the bracelet

1. 

   01 How to warp your bead loom

   Stretch the warp threads on the loom – they form the base of the bracelet and hold the beads in place. The number of threads depends on the width: use one thread more than the number of beads per row. Make sure the threads are even and evenly taut.

2. 

   02 How to weave your bracelet

   Choose your colours and pattern. Pick up the beads on a working thread and place them under the warp threads so each bead sits in its own gap. Pass the needle back through the beads above the warp to lock the row. Continue row by row until the bracelet is the length you want.

Finally

Finish your bracelet

3. 03 Finish the bracelet

   How you finish depends on your thread and clasp. Secure the threads carefully so the beads stay in place, and give the bracelet a finished look with suitable end findings and a clasp.

Create your own unique jewellery

One of the best things about making your own beaded bracelets is that you decide the design. Combine your favourite colours, create personal patterns or make a bracelet as a gift for someone you care about.

Tip: Draw your pattern on squared paper before you start – it makes it easy to keep track of the colours row by row.

Tips for beginners

• Start with a simple pattern – stripes or a few colours are a good beginning.
• Use uniform beads – Miyuki Delica gives a neat, regular result.
• Keep an even thread tension so the bracelet stays straight.
• Plan your design on squared paper before you begin.
• Be patient – the more you practise, the easier the technique becomes.

The book behind the videos: Kvinde, kend dine perler

Want to go beyond your first bracelet? The Danish book “Kvinde, kend dine perler” by GaarnStrik covers bead weaving, DIY beaded bracelets and jewellery making – with patterns and inspiration for your next projects.

See the book

Frequently asked questions

How many warp threads do I need on the bead loom?

Use one thread more than the number of beads per row. For a bracelet 7 beads wide, you warp 8 threads.

Which beads are best for loom weaving?

Uniform cylinder beads such as Miyuki Delica work well because they sit close and evenly and give a regular pattern.

Is bead loom weaving hard for beginners?

No. Start with a simple pattern and few colours, and follow the two videos – the technique quickly becomes natural.