Are you ready to take your bead-making skills up a notch and make jewelry pieces that exude sophistication? Are you looking for a way to change up your wardrobe without breaking the bank? Working with wooden beads can elevate any project, whether you are making boho-chic necklaces or understated bracelets.
Wood beads bring texture and warmth to handmade jewelry in ways that plastic or glass beads just cannot replicate. From simple necklaces and stacking bracelets to more intricate woven anklets and earrings, wooden beads add texture and vibrancy to any look.
In this blog post, we will explore the different colors, shapes, sizes, and textures of wood beads available for styling jewelry designs as well as offering tips on the most effective way to string them onto everything from macrame cording to leather laces. Follow these simple steps on how to style wooden beads to begin creating beautiful and unique jewelry pieces with wooden beads. Let’s get started!
Different Types of Wooden Beads
The first step in styling wooden beads to create your desired jewelry piece is selecting the correct bead shape and size. Here are some of the most common types of wood beads:
• Round Beads – These are the most basic type of wooden beads. They come in a variety of sizes, from delicate seed beads to large statement pieces.
• Barrel-shaped Beads – These are wider in the middle than at either end and can be used to create interesting patterns.
• Hexagonal Beads – These six-sided shapes work well for weaving intricate jewelry designs.
• Oval Beads – When strung together, oval wooden beads can add a lovely touch of style to any design.
• Cube Beads – Square cubes are perfect for adding structure to a design.
• Teardrop Beads – These are shaped like teardrops and come in various sizes, from delicate drops to larger pendants.
Once you have selected the right type of wooden bead for your project, it is time to select the color and texture of wood that will suit your project best. Wood beads can come in a spectrum of natural colors, from white to dark brown.
The color and texture of the wood will depend on the type of wood used to make the bead. For instance, beech wood is usually light-colored with straight stripes or rings, while mahogany wood beads are darker with wavy lines.
The Functionality of Wooden Beads
1. Great Design
When arranging your wooden beads, consider their function. For instance, larger beads can serve as the focal point of a design or mark the center of the piece, while smaller beads can be used to create a more delicate aesthetic. You should also think about where certain elements should be placed in your design and how many times they need to appear. This will help you determine which type of beads will work best in a particular part of the design.
2. Secure Attachment
Wooden beads can be secured to most materials, including string, wire, and leather lacing. When attaching wooden beads to your project, it is important to ensure that they are strongly attached so that they don’t come loose while wearing the jewelry piece. You can use crimp tubes, jump rings, or wire wraps to securely attach the beads to your desired material.
3. Durability
One of the great advantages of using wooden beads is that they are more durable than many other types of beads, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking or being damaged while wearing the jewelry piece. However, you should still take care to store your jewelry pieces carefully when not in use.
By following these simple steps, you can begin creating beautiful jewelry pieces with wooden beads. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced beader, the sky is the limit when it comes to styling wooden beads into unique and stylish designs!
Required Items
- Wooden beads in the desired color and size
- String, wire, or leather lacing of your choice
- Crimp tubes, jump rings, or wire wraps as necessary
Tools:
- Scissors
- Needle-nose pliers (optional)
10 Ways How to Style Wooden Beads
1. Stacking Bracelets
Arrange wooden beads of various sizes and colors on a length of string or leather lacing to create colorful stacking bracelets. The bracelets are easy to customize, and the combination of different colors and textures adds an interesting touch. Also, you can tie the ends of the string together to create a simple yet elegant bracelet.
2. Layered Necklaces
Create layered necklaces by combining different sizes and shapes of wooden beads with larger pendants. You can use smaller round beads to make a choker-style necklace around the base of your neck while using longer strands of teardrop beads to add a delicate touch.
3. Hoop Earrings
For a truly unique look, make hoop earrings using round wooden beads and jump rings. Thread the beads onto the jump rings and use needle-nose pliers to secure them together. Make sure to double-check that all of the beads are securely attached so they don’t come loose or fall off.
4. Wooden Beaded Anklets
Create an eye-catching anklet using wooden beads in a variety of sizes and colors. Choose your favorite combination and string the beads onto a length of thin elastic cord for a secure fit around your ankle. You can also add charms to the anklet to give it additional character.
5. Statement Necklaces
Make a statement with a necklace made from large, bold wooden beads. Choose darker colors for an edgier look or lighter colors to keep it more delicate. You can also mix and match different shapes of beads for a truly unique and eye-catching design.
6. Chunky Rings
Create a chunky wood bead ring by threading beads onto a length of elastic cord and tying them together in a circle. Be sure to use the tightest knots possible so that your ring stays secure around your finger. You can also add charms or crystals for extra sparkle.
7. Macrame Jewelry
Macrame is a great way to use wooden beads in an interesting and stylish design. Choose beads of different sizes and shapes to create intricate patterns with a length of macrame string or cord. You can also add charms to the cords for an extra touch of detail.
8. Hair Ties
Create stylish hair ties using wooden beads and elastic cords. String several beads onto the cord, tie it in a knot, and thread the ends through two more beads. Use needle-nose pliers to secure the ends of the cord, and your hair tie is ready to use.
9. Dreamcatchers
Dreamcatchers are a great way to incorporate wooden beads into a unique decoration for your home or garden. Choose an assortment of different shapes and colors of beads and hang them from lengths of string in various patterns. This adds an interesting touch to any space.
10. Charm Bracelets
Charm bracelets are always a classic choice for styling wooden beads, and they are easy to make! Choose your favorite charms and attach them securely with jump rings or wire wraps. You can then add round or cube beads of various sizes in between the charms for extra detail.
By following these tips, you can create beautiful and unique jewelry pieces with wooden beads. From simple stacking bracelets to intricate charm bracelets, the possibilities are endless! Get creative and see what kinds of designs you can come up with.
3 Maintenance Tips for Wooden Beads
Wooden beads are a great and versatile way to add charm and style to any look. Whether you’re going for a classic, natural feel or something more contemporary, wooden beads can be used in a variety of ways. With that being said, it’s important to take good care of your wooden beads if you want them to look their best. Here are five tips for styling and maintaining wooden beads:
1. Keep your beads clean by wiping them down with a damp cloth after each use. Be sure to avoid using any abrasive cleaners, as this can damage the wood.
2. If you’re looking for an extra shine on your wooden beads, try buffing them with a polishing cloth. This will help to bring out their natural luster and keep them looking great.
3. Store your beads in an airtight container to avoid dust and dirt buildup. Airtight containers will also protect against any moisture that could potentially damage the wood over time.
Conclusion
Styling wooden beads is an excellent way to express your personal style and creativity. Whether you’re using them as a statement piece or as accent pieces, wooden beads can be used to create an interesting fashion look. Remember, there are several factors when it comes to styling wooden beads that need to be carefully considered. Think about the size, texture, color, shape, and type of the bead when creating your unique accessory.
These tips on how to style wooden beads can help you create a one-of-a-kind look with wood beads that will make a lasting impression! Furthermore, don’t forget that styling isn’t just about colors and textures – picking the right design is key for putting together a stylish piece of jewelry. Be patient in finding the right combination of materials and make sure your design reflects your personality for an unforgettable look!
