Simple Beading Needle Options

You don't need fancy needles to string beads
by Jackie E-S

Use something you probably already have on hand.

When knitting with beads, many designs call for stringing beads onto the thread/yarn first. To do this, do not think you have to use a special beading needle. Here are 3 simple beading needle options using common things you might even already have on hand, and thus avoid purchasing specialty needles.

Small tapestry needle (left in above photo)

You must be able to thread the needle with your yarn, as well as be able to pass the threaded needle through the hole in the bead. Therefore this option usually works best for larger beads only (usually no smaller than size 6/0 (4mm) seed beads).

Small sewing needle with "sewing thread eye" (center in above photo)

Sewing needles not only come in thinner sizes than tapestry needles, but the eye on some styles is slimmer. This is a good option for the smallest beads. If you have trouble getting your yarn through the eye of the needle, you can make your own larger "sewing thread eye" as follows:

1. Thread the eye of your needle with a short length of sewing thread.
2. Holding both ends of the sewing thread together, make a simple overhand knot and pull snugly.
3. Clip the ends of the knot a short distance from the end. Now you have an "eye" through which you can easily pass your yarn.

Nylon dental floss threader (right in above photo)

This "needle" option won't stick you, and the collapsing eye is easily threaded with your yarn. Here is a picture of how the beads slide over the "eye", collapsing it in the process of the beads being strung onto the yarn.

Are you ready to string beads?

If you've been hesitant to try stringing beads because of thinking you need special equipment, I hope this helps get you started on new explorations into knitting with beads.

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