Getting Started With Loom Bead Weaving

Are you interested in learning more about the art of loom bead weaving? This guide is here to help. Read on to learn everything you need to know to get started with loom bead weaving, including tips on choosing the right tools for the job and free bead loom patterns.

What is Loom Bead Weaving?

Loom bead weaving is a fun technique that is often used by beaders to make bead loom bracelets, coin purses, and other accessories. While it’s possible to bead these by hand, you will find that bead loom can help make the task easier and much more fun.

What is a Bead Loom?

A bead loom is a tool that is used to weave beads together. Just like traditional looms that are used to weave fabric, bead looms, which are significantly smaller, use the weft and warp method. The stationary warp threads (vertical threads) stay under tension while weft threads (horizontal threads) and beads are woven over and under the warp threads using a special needle, creating a pattern.

Types of Bead Looms

While all bead looms will have a similar basic design, there are some differences from model to model. Bead looms are usually made from plastic or wood, and some come adjustable allowing you to create larger pieces.

If you are new to loom bead weaving, then a beading loom kit such as the Beadalon 'Jewel loom' Beading Loom Kit could be a great option for you. This innovative loom kit is perfect for making bead loom bracelets and smaller loomed items and includes a long loom needle, threader, and a zip-up case for keeping everything together.

Another choice is the Little Ricky Beading Loom. This model leaves only two warp threads on each end of your project instead of multiple warp threads like with traditional looms, making it easier to complete your work. This adjustable bead loom allows you to make designs in lengths from 2 to 8 inches and comes with warp pegs, rods, and a separator card that will help you keep track of each thread.

How to Use Bead Loom?

To use a bead loom, first, you need to set up your warm threads. The number of warp threads you use and their length will determine how long and wide will your final project be. When it comes to the length, don’t forget to take into account any additional finishing components such as clasps or end tubes. After that, you’ll need to insert your weft thread into your beading needle and load up your needle with beads. You are ready to begin weaving following the instructions of your pattern.

Best Materials for Loom Bead Weaving

Before you get bead looming, you need to make sure you have the right materials for the task. Apart from the loom itself, you will need to ensure that you have the right beads, threads, and needles.

We recommend using long loom needles for loom bead weaving as they are much longer than traditional sewing needles and will allow you to make a complete pass through your warp threads with ease.

You can use just about any seed beads for bead looming. Miyuki Delica beads are a popular option because they lock perfectly into place against each other due to their uniform shape. Czech seed beads are another great choice, as they have rounded edges.

When it comes to beading thread we recommend using a nylon thread. Nymo thread is one of the most popular and easy-to-find beading threads that are perfect for loom weaving with seed beads.

CJ Beaders' Top Bead Loom Patterns

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next loom bead weaving project, you may want to consider one of these bead loom patterns available on CJ Beaders blog:

Alternatively, if you are looking for some bead loom bracelet patterns, you may want to consider one of the following bead loom bracelets kits. These kits are perfect for beginners as they come with beads, thread needles, and full instructions included.

We hope that this guide answered some of the questions you had about loom bead weaving and inspired you to get started with your bead loom project. If you have more questions or need help choosing the right materials for your project, our team at CJ Beaders is happy to help. Contact us today on 01202 798151 or use our online contact form.