1. Hobbies & Games

How to Make a Project-Specific Beading Kit

Make a kit for yourself or for a friend

From , former About.com Guide

Project beading kits are always a welcome gift between bead buddies. I can still remember the first beading kit I received as a gift – it was two pieces of Ultrasuede and a selection of seed beads and a fastener that was meant to be turned into a carry case for my round thread cutter. The friend who put the kit together for me used my favorite colors – Earth tones – and even though it has been more than ten years, I still have that little thread cutter pouch. Why not put together a project beading kit for one of your beading friends?

1. Instructions

The first and most important thing in your kit should be the instructions for the project. If the project is not one that you designed, you should ALWAYS purchase a new copy of the project instructions or book or magazine where the instructions are found. NEVER make a copy of someone else's instructions to give away – not only does that violate copyright law, but it is just not in the spirit of good craftsmanship.

2. Thread

You will want to make sure that the kit includes the appropriate type and thickness of thread for the project. Make sure that the thread color matches the bead colors that you have chosen for the project kit as well.

3. Beads and Findings

You can either use the same colors as pictured in the project or you can customize the beads, like my friend did for me with the thread cutter pouch. If you know someone who loves blues, pick out a shining palette of water colors. Or if the recipient loves Earth tones, a palette of brown and gold would be appreciated.

For the perfect finishing touch, include some high quality findings like clasps, jump rings and ear wires. You can also include any crimps or French wire that might be required to give the piece a professional touch.

4. Needles

If the project requires a special type of needle like a sharp (short) needle, include a few of these stuck into a piece of card stock.

5. Gift Box or Storage

Include a soft cloth pouch or a sturdy wood and velvet-lined gift box with the kit. This can double as a container in which to put all the kit components and then can be used to store the finished piece of beadwork. You could also consider including a small velvet bust, bracelet display, or earring display.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.