Pyra's Crafts Corner

Tips and Troubleshooting

My Needleweaving Hobby

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This piece was auctioned at the Bead Gallery to help Katrina Victims!

For some years now, I have been using fibers and beads to make some beautiful necklaces. I also teach classes occasionally, so if your group wants to learn how, contact me!

Each is one of a kind, and I never copy them, but I do sometimes accept commissions; it's a great way to reuse old beads, brooches, or buttons. Let me know if you're interested!

The warps are freeformed with a pinned board, and I use waxed carpet thread or mastex for the warping. The beads are then strung directly onto the warps, and the weaving done with pearle cotton (I hope soon to begin using linen or silk thread, once I find a source).

Tip 2: Using shank buttons:

When adding a shank button to your necklace, remember to have it face down on your warp, as you are weaving from the back. If the button is thick, you may have to dig a little into the surface of your warp board to prevent the weft from rising in the back and distorting too much. You can also use shank buttons as warp enders if they are rounded enough to show as dangles. In any case, be certain that the button shank is securely fastened into the button; if it's a bit loose, remove it and re-glue with epoxy, and place it on the warp when dry. Antique shank buttons are usually excellent focal points for a Victorian or Baroque style piece!

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List of Resources

These are some of my budget-minded sources of supply:

firemountaingems.com

acmoore.com

dickblick.com

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