Editing Bead stringing (section)

{{short description|Method of stringing beads}}
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[[File:Stringing beads.jpg|thumb|Stringing beads on a needle]]

[[File:Melon Bead Necklace MET DP112378.jpg|thumb|A pair of beaded necklaces]]
'''Bead stringing''' is a type of [[beadwork]] which involves putting [[Bead|beads]] on a [[Thread (yarn)|string]]. It can range from simply sliding a single bead onto any thread-like medium (string, [[silk]] thread, [[leather]] [[strap|thong]], thin [[wire]], multi-stranded beading wire, or a soft, flexible wire) to complex creations that have multiple strands or interwoven levels.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Marketing |first=Cape Tools |date=2021-11-10 |title=Learning About Stringing & Chain Lengths |url=https://www.capewatch.co.za/learning-about-stringing-chain-lengths/ |access-date=2025-03-20 |website=Cape Tools & Jewellery Supplies |language=en-US}}</ref> The choice of stringing medium can be an important point in the overall design, since string-type mediums might be subject to unwanted stretching if the weight of the beads is considerable. Similarly, certain bead types with sharp edges, such as hollow metal beads or some varieties of stone or [[Glass bead making|glass beads]], might abrade the string and cause the strand to eventually break.

The simplest design is a single bead centered as a concentrated point on the string medium. The ends of the string can be simply [[Knot|knotted]] together or components of a [[Fastener|clasp]] may be attached to each end.

Next in complexity would be stringing multiple beads onto a single strand. Here alone are numerous opportunities for adding elements to the design concept. All of the beads might be identical, or varied (in shape, color, type or any combination thereof) and used either in a random assortment or in a deliberate repeating [[pattern]]. Items not strictly defined as beads, such as [[Pendant|pendants]] or "drops", might be placed within the strand to serve as focal points or accent elements in the design.