Beading: String Theory
Now that I'm doing a bit of beading again I'm facing an old issue, the pros and cons of the materials used for stringing. Some threads are too fat for my beading needles, so they must be reserved for larger scale projects. Other threads tend to get shredded by the two-cut glass beads.
Occasionally, I prefer to use waxed dental floss, if I can hide the color. Because dental floss is waxed, it knots very well. Although, the floss can still be deliberately untied if need be. It is stronger than many threads used for stringing; however, it can get shredded by glass beads when reworking a piece. I have used it quite successfully for making beaded fringe.
Monofilament cord is strong, hides well and doesn't require a needle to string beads. However, the main problem I have using monofilament is that it doesn't knot very well, and, when it is finally knotted, there is no room for error. Monofilament gets permanently creased when knotted.
Of course, my current project, some simple star-like and snowflake-like ornaments, requires the use of monofilament. So, finding a solution to this knotty problem will make my work so much easier. I've tried other materials, but none do the job as well for this project.
I've used wire for many projects before, but wire has the same problem of creasing. Plus, wire is as difficult to hide as thread. I do like it for certain projects, but I don't think it will solve my problem here.
I've forgotten how much trial and error is involved when I'm not using another person's pattern. I'm not complaining, though. This process is all part of the aggravating fun of crafting. That said, I'm still glad to get constructive advice.
Occasionally, I prefer to use waxed dental floss, if I can hide the color. Because dental floss is waxed, it knots very well. Although, the floss can still be deliberately untied if need be. It is stronger than many threads used for stringing; however, it can get shredded by glass beads when reworking a piece. I have used it quite successfully for making beaded fringe.
Monofilament cord is strong, hides well and doesn't require a needle to string beads. However, the main problem I have using monofilament is that it doesn't knot very well, and, when it is finally knotted, there is no room for error. Monofilament gets permanently creased when knotted.
Of course, my current project, some simple star-like and snowflake-like ornaments, requires the use of monofilament. So, finding a solution to this knotty problem will make my work so much easier. I've tried other materials, but none do the job as well for this project.
I've used wire for many projects before, but wire has the same problem of creasing. Plus, wire is as difficult to hide as thread. I do like it for certain projects, but I don't think it will solve my problem here.
I've forgotten how much trial and error is involved when I'm not using another person's pattern. I'm not complaining, though. This process is all part of the aggravating fun of crafting. That said, I'm still glad to get constructive advice.