How to begin a bead loom bracelet

Set up an eight-bead-wide bracelet and learn the first rows without losing tension.

What you need

Beading loom, seed beads, bead needle, thread, clasp. Keep a ruler, scissors, and scrap material nearby. Use all equipment according to its manufacturer instructions.

Make it step by step

1. Warp nine threads for eight bead columns and tape the tails out of the way.
2. Pick up eight beads on the weft needle. Pass under all warp threads and press one bead between each pair.
3. Pass the needle back through all eight beads above the warp. Repeat each row following a simple chevron chart.
4. Weave loose ends back through several rows and attach your chosen closure.

Check your work

Look for even tension, secure thread ends, and clean edges. If the sample puckers or pulls out of shape, loosen the tension and test on scrap before continuing.

Common questions