Help with bead holes

[VickiK]

I made some decent looking beads for earrings...problem is, I used a 3/32 mandrel when I meant to use a 1/16 mandrel. Like I said the beads are pretty decent and as close to the same size as I think I'm gonna get so I don't want to just scrap them if there's a remedy. Ane suggestion? Thanks!

[suzanne]

If I understand correct, the hole is too big? ( we work with the metric system here, 3/32 is bigger then 1/16 right?)

If the hole is too big, you might want to try gluing a seed beed in the beadhole. This way you can still use the beads, but just string or wire wrap through the seedbeadhole

Suzanne

[VickiK]

Yes the hole is too big. I'm sorry, I should have clarified.

Thanks for the tip Suzanne, I'll definitely try that!

[Moth]

Well, take your headpin, add a small-holed bead, then a bead cap. Add your larger holed lampwork bead, then use 11/0 seed beads threaded onto the headpin to fill the hole of the lampwork bead. Add your other bead cap and whatever other accents you have going on, and form your loop.

The seed beads will hug the headpin, and fill the gap between the headpin and the bead hole. This will keep the bead from going wonky, and rocking back and forth around the headpin. No glue.

Hope that helps!
~~Mary

[MikeAurelius]

See if you can find a cylinder bead that will fit down the mandrel hole. You may have to open it up a tetch to accomodate.

I've had to do this as well. It's a pain in the butt, but works.

[DreamMuse]

here's how I get around that problem *S*

I have 3mm round sterling silver beads that snuggle partway into the hole, but don't go all the way down into it. So, if I use a sterling headpin, then a 3mm bead, then my lampwork bead then another 3mm bead and then do the wrapped loop for the earhook, those sterling beads will keep the lampwork bead from moving. (You do need to make sure everything is snuggled down tight when you're done.)

[VickiK]

Thanks guys! All great ideas! I knew this was a great place to be!!!! :-D