Beading wire, the perfect solution for someone who’s hard on their jewelry.

There are lots of different types of beading wire available out there, enough that figuring out which one is the right one can be kind of confusing. In this part of Let’s Talk About Stringing, I’m going to do my best to explain the differences between all of them and help make your next stringing project easier.

*Soft Flex Brand Medium Beading Wire: 26lb test but also 0.48mm diameter*

There are two major things to pay attention to when choosing beading wire. The first is weight. Most beading wire has test strength written on it like fishing line does. The higher the strength the less likely your wire is to break under the stress of being worn. However, its important to note the diameter of the wire as well. The higher the poundage the bigger the diameter of your wire. Make sure the beads you’re using have a hole big enough for the heavy wire before you buy!

The second thing to pay attention to is the wire braid. All beading wire is braided steel and the number of wires in the braid is actually really important! There are usually four different braid numbers available. The lowest number is 7.

Seven strand Beading wire is the least expensive beading wire available. It’s good for bracelets and for heavy beads. Because the number of wires is low, it flexibility and good drape for lightweight beads or necklaces. It also kinks if you’re not careful.

There are two mid range beading wires, 19 Strand and 21 Strand.

Twenty-One strand beading wire is my all around go-to for stringing. It’s flexible enough for good drape, but is still reasonably priced compared to some beading wires. It only kinks if you’re particularly mean to it as well.

Lastly, the highest quality beading wire: 49 Strand. It is by far the best.

This beading wire has the best strength and the best drape of all the beading wires available. It won’t kink and is great for small lightweight beads. It’s worth every penny, but it can sometimes nearly twice as much as other braided steel beading wires.

Beading wire also requires special tools and components to be used! Unlike silk or S-Lon cord, beading wire requires wire cutters, crimps and crimping pliers to be properly finished. Be prepared to invest in some extra things, but I promise it’ll be worth it in the end.

Let’s Talk About Stringing Part 3: Beading Wire

Let’s Talk About Beads! Rullas