Multistrand Blended Seed Bead Necklace: The Bead Spinner Method

Updated at: 18/03/2025

Creating stunning, multi-strand necklaces can seem daunting, but with the right technique, it becomes an achievable and rewarding craft. The bead spinner method offers a surprisingly simple yet elegant solution for constructing intricate, multi-layered designs using seed beads. This technique allows for precise control over bead placement and strand tension, resulting in a professional-looking necklace with a beautifully consistent drape. Forget the frustration of tangled threads and uneven layers; the bead spinner simplifies the process, allowing you to focus on your creativity and the joy of beadwork.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to mastering the bead spinner method for crafting multistrand blended seed bead necklaces. We'll walk you through each step, from preparing your materials to finishing your masterpiece, ensuring you can confidently create a unique and exquisite piece of jewelry. Get ready to unravel the secrets of this efficient and effective beading technique.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 6 24G tubes of seed beads (2 colors)
  • 6 x 36 inch pieces of bead stringing thread
  • 6 mm beads
  • 2 eye pins
  • clasp
  • jump ring
  • chain
  • chain nose pliers
  • round nose pliers
  • wire cutters
  • scissors
  • ruler
  • needle threader
  • super glue
  • funnel
  • small dish
  • bead spinner
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp, high-quality scissors to cut beading wire. Dull scissors can cause the wire to fray and weaken, potentially leading to breakage and loss of beads.
  • Be mindful of the tension on your beading wire. Too tight can cause the wire to snap; too loose can result in an uneven or floppy necklace. Practice maintaining consistent tension throughout the beading process.
  • When using a bead spinner, ensure the spinner's mechanism is securely fastened to prevent accidental release of beads or entanglement of the wire.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Threads

    • Tie six strands of bead stringing thread together in an overhand knot.

  2. Add Side Beads

    • Add two tubes of your chosen side color beads to the bead spinner.
    • Thread 5 inches of beads onto each of the six strands.
    • Repeat step 3 for each of the six strands.
    Repeat step 3 for each of the six strands.Repeat step 3 for each of the six strands.Repeat step 3 for each of the six strands.
    Add Side Beads

  3. Return Beads to Tubes

    • Use a funnel to return the beads to the tubes.
    Use a funnel to return the beads to the tubes.
    Return Beads to Tubes

  4. Create the Blend

    • Add one tube of each color to the bead spinner, mix, and add 5 inches of the mixed beads to each strand.

  5. Add Center Beads

    • Add two tubes of your center color to the bead spinner and string 6 inches of these beads onto each strand.
    Add two tubes of your center color to the bead spinner and string 6 inches of these beads onto each strand.
    Add Center Beads

  6. Complete the Necklace

    • Add 5 inches of mixed beads, then 5 inches of your starting color to each strand.
    Add 5 inches of mixed beads, then 5 inches of your starting color to each strand.
    Complete the Necklace

  7. Secure One End

    • Gather the threads, pull them snug, and attach an eye pin. Tie a knot, close the eye pin, and add super glue to secure.
    Gather the threads, pull them snug, and attach an eye pin. Tie a knot, close the eye pin, and add super glue to secure.
    Secure One End

  8. Finish One End

    • Add a bead cap, bead, and bend the wire at a 45° angle. Use round nose pliers to make a loop, trim the wire, and close the loop.
    Add a bead cap, bead, and bend the wire at a 45° angle. Use round nose pliers to make a loop, trim the wire, and close the loop.
    Finish One End

  9. Finish the Other End

    • Repeat steps 9 & 10 on the other end, adding a lobster clasp with a jump ring.
    Repeat steps 9 & 10 on the other end, adding a lobster clasp with a jump ring.
    Finish the Other End

Read more: Elegant Russian Spiral Necklace Tutorial: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Use a needle threader if needed.
  • Use a ruler to measure bead sections accurately.
  • Having the same number of needles as threads speeds up the process.
  • Let the super glue dry completely before proceeding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Tension

Reason: Inconsistent tension on the strands during beading leads to a wobbly or uneven necklace.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension by using a beading surface and regularly checking strand tightness.

2. Incorrect Starting Knot

Reason: A poorly secured starting knot can unravel, causing beads to fall off and ruining the project.
Solution: Use a secure knotting technique, such as a surgeon's knot, and reinforce with glue.

3. Skipping Beads or Inconsistent Bead Placement

Reason: Missing beads or inconsistent spacing creates an unprofessional and uneven look.
Solution: Use a beading pattern or guide and carefully check for missed beads before moving to the next row.

FAQs

What type of thread is best for the bead spinner method with seed beads?
For seed beads, high-quality nylon thread like FireLine or Nymo is recommended. These threads are strong, thin, and have low memory, preventing tangles and ensuring a smooth, even beadwork finish.