A new glass?

[sislonski]

Not sure how many of you string your beads into jewelry but what is the best product (strength, durability, flexibility) to string Lampwork beads onto? Gauge?

shari

[DawnT]

Good question Shari - I'm interested in thoughts on this too.

BTW - what do you use? You make such beautiful jewelry.

I use Softflex (medium) almost exclusively. I used to do some wirework but since I started making beads I just don't have as much time for jewelry-making.

[sislonski]

Thanks Dawn!

I use.020 dia (7 strand) Acculon.(Nylong coated tiger tail) I haven't really had any complaints from customers but have had a few break. So not sure if I should be using something stronger.

[Flamechick]

I've been beadstringing with sterling and semi-precious stones and selling at shows for the last 3 years. I haven't actually used my own lampworked beads yet, 'cause, they're, well, crap, :wink: but when I do use heavier beads, or other people's lampwork, I use the professional series 49 strand of Beadalon in .018 diam. It holds up pretty good, although, it can stretch a tad.

This past year, I've gotten into wire work where I make bangles, brangles, and linked wire bracelets. I've used lampwork beads on 12 gauge sterling to make bangles, 14 to 16 gauge sterling to make the brangles, and 18 - 20 gauge silver to make linked bracelets.

Hope this helps.

Amber

[SunSpot]

I use the softflex .019. I found I had less breakage, stretching and kinking than with other brands.