Crystal beads are shiny, faceted glass beads with special brilliance and reflectivity. Here's a list of free crystal patterns on About.com and elsewhere on the Internet.
I'll update this list over time to keep it fresh. To be notified about new patterns, subscribe to the free Beadwork Newsletter.
Tip: You can substitute different brands of crystal beads in these patterns, as long as you use the same sizes and shapes. For example, you can use Swarovski crystal bicones instead of Chinese crystal bicones.
Please click on the title of each project below to go directly to the pattern.
Simple Hexagon Weave Earrings
Hexagon Weave Earrings by Chris Franchetti Michaels
These basic hexagon angle weave earrings use 3mm crystal bicones and standard round seed beads.
Difficulty level: Beginner
Fiesta Twin Bead and Crystal Earrings
Fiesta Earrings by Chris Franchetti Michaels
This pattern uses 4mm bicone crystals along with round seed beads and two-hole Twin beads. You can substitute Superduos for the Twin beads, if you'd like.
Difficulty level: Beginner
Easy Crystal Bead Tennis Bracelet
Easy Swarovski Crystal Tennis Bracelet by Jennifer VanBenschoten
This classic bracelet design uses 4mm crystal bicones and cylinder beads. You stitch it up using single-needle right angle weave.
Difficulty level: Beginner
Crystal Circle Beaded Pendant
Crystal Circle Beaded Pendant by Jennifer VanBenschoten
This gorgeous little pendant uses 3mm and 4mm crystal bicones and size 15/0 round seed beads.
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Red Crystal and Brass Flower Bracelet
Red Crystal and Brass Flower Bracelet by Tammy Powley
This simple project shows you how stunning cube crystals can look in a single-strand bracelet.
Difficulty level: Beginner
Swarovski Crystal Tennis Bracelets
Swarovski Crystal Bracelets by Pam Preslar
In this free tutorial, Pam Preslar takes you step by step through the process of making these sparkling bicone crystal bracelets. Once you learn the basic technique, you can switch up the pattern and customize your designs. You'll need to sign up for a free account on Pam's site to download the directions.
Difficulty level: Beginner
Crystal Ornament
Crystal Ornament by Deborah Roberti
I'm a big fan of Deborah Roberti's work, and this little ornament is a great example of her creativity. Learn how to make it in this free pattern from Around the Beading Table.
Difficulty level: Beginner
Garden Necklace
Garden Necklace by Deborah Roberti
Also from Around the Beading Table, this sparkling necklace uses crystal bicones, round beads, and Delica cylinder beads. I can see this one adapted for holidays, prom, or even weddings.
Difficulty level: Beginner to Intermediate
Crystal Chain Bracelet
Crystal Chain Bracelet by Deborah Roberti
This pattern takes a slightly different, lacy approach to bead weaving with crystals. I love it! It's also courtesy of Around the Beading Table.
Difficulty level: Beginner
Triangle Weave Bracelet
Triangle Weave Bracelet by Deborah Roberti
Learn embellished triangle weave while stitching up this elegant bracelet. It's a nice example of how you can combine crystals with Czech fire polished beads.
Difficulty level: Beginner to Intermediate