Description
This embellished spiral rope tutorial is perfect if you are just starting out in beading. It looks like a very ornate design, but is in fact extremely simple to stitch. You can make it as a necklace or bracelet (the materials listed in the tutorial should give you a necklace length). If you are a more experienced beader, this is a variation that I love to make when I want a little relaxation or need a quick gift.
Materials
- Size 11 seed beads
- 4mm pearls
- 4mm firepolish or crystal
- Beading thread and clasp
About the Embellished Spiral Rope
Beaded ropes are such a useful thing. They make great jewellery in their own right, but they are also fabulous for hanging pendants or attaching to focal sections. You can make any kind of beaded rope, using any bead-weaving technique. However, I like to start my students with a spiral rope. It is really easy to pick up this simple technique and it works up quickly.
Once they have mastered the basic spiral rope, I encourage them to move on to the embellished spiral rope. The technique is the same, but by adding in different types of bead, you create a really intricate-looking design. Everyone will admire it, but only you will know how simple it was to make!
For this embellished spiral rope variation, I have used size 11 seed beads and mixed these with pearls and crystals. If you are feeling rich, then you can use freshwater pearls and Swarovski crystal. (By the way, this make a stunning set of bridal jewellery!). Alternatively, if you are on a budget, just go with glass pearls and non-branded crystals, or 4mm faceted beads.
Once you have mastered this variation, you can try so many different ideas. To get you started, I included loads in my booklet all about Spiral Ropes. If you keep scrolling down the page, you will also find some more patterns suggestions.
I can’t emphasise enough how much you need beaded ropes in your life! If you are just starting out, this embellished spiral rope is such a great stitch to learn. Having learned it, you will be able to create loads of jewellery – all with one simple technique. If you are more advanced, then I find these ropes perfect for a bit of relaxation or a quick make. It really is a pattern for everyone!
