Beadalon Blog

Using French Wire to finish designs is one of the easiest ways to add strength, durability, and a professional look to your knotted and strung designs. While traditionally used in pearl knotting, French Wire can also be used to finish off the ends of designs strung on Beadalon Bead Stringing Wire. In fact, before the arrival of Wire Guardians , that's how I finished off all of my strung designs.  Did you know that Beadalon carries 5 different colors of French Wire and .925 Sterling Silver French Wire in 5 sizes? That's more than enough to match, coordinate, or complement knotted or strung designs!   Tips for Working with French Wire: Choose the Right Size- Selecting the appropriate size of French wire is crucial. It should accommodate the thickness of the thread and the size of the beads while maintaining a proportionate look.   Use Quality Materials - Opt for high-quality French wire to ensure durability and a polished finish. Look for options that are tarnish-resistant and o

  At long last, super thin, super strong, and perfect for intricate beadweaving,  WildFire Ultra  is here! Wildfire Ultra is a .004 diameter - thin enough for multiple passes through Delicas and small seed beads. It's available in Black and Clear and in 20 yard, 50 yard, and 125 yard spool lengths. It is smooth, supple, and threadlike, does not stretch, and is very strong and abrasion resistant. The best way to cut it is with really sharp, dedicated scissors. The Beadalon Designer Scissors are my first choice. Be sure to bring the thread all the way to the back of the scissors - cutting with the tips won't work. I recommend conditioning with either Beeswax or another thread conditioner of your choice. My favorite needles to use are the Fine Big Eye Needle , the Extra Fine Collapsible Eye Needle , and the WildFire Needle . If you're using the WildFire Needle or another hard needle, flatten the end with chain nose pliers, and needle the thread by pinching the end between you