Knotting & Braiding

The Pearl Knotting Tool ensures flawless knots with its ergonomic design and threading efficiency, while the Pearl Knotting Tweezers add a delicate touch to your traditional pearl jewellery creations.

Dive into the world of Kumihimo braiding with our braiding discs, exploring traditional Japanese techniques to infuse a unique and captivating dimension into your beadwork. Unleash your creativity and elevate your craft with this carefully curated collection of tools, where every one is a masterpiece in its own right.

Unlock the Secrets of Flawless Knotting

The Bead Smith Pearl Knotting Tool

Welcome to the world of precision knotting with the Bead Smith Pearl Knotting Tool. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this tool is your gateway to achieving flawless knots in your beadwork, especially in the creation of elegant pearl jewellery.

Ergonomic Excellence:

The Pearl Knotting Tool is designed for comfort and control, boasting an ergonomic shape that fits snugly in your hand. Say goodbye to hand fatigue and hello to extended knotting sessions with ease.

Specialised Grip:

Enjoy enhanced control with the specialised grip, allowing you to navigate intricate knotting projects effortlessly. The grip is crafted for precision, ensuring your knots are not just secure but perfectly spaced for a professional finish.

Versatility in Bead Sizes:

Tailored to accommodate various bead sizes and types, this tool is a versatile companion for different beadwork projects. From delicate pearls to statement gemstone beads, the Pearl Knotting Tool adapts to your creative vision.

Efficiency in Threading:

The integrated threading mechanism streamlines the process of picking up and securing beads. Experience efficient threading, enabling you to move seamlessly through your knotting projects.

Durable Construction:

Crafted from high-quality materials, the Pearl Knotting Tool ensures durability and longevity. Its robust construction is a testament to its ability to withstand the demands of frequent use, making it a reliable choice for your beadwork journey.

The Bead Smith Pearl Knotting tool includes detailed step-by-step instructions for perfecting your knots with the tool.

Perfect Pairing: Pearl Knotting Tweezers

Achieve Precision with Every Pearl Knot

Pearl knotting with tweezers is a delicate and precise technique that adds a professional touch to your beadwork. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve flawless knots and create stunning pearl jewellery.

Materials Needed:

• Pearls
• Silk thread or bead cord
• Pearl Knotting Tweezers
• Clasp and jump ring (for jewellery finishing)
• Beading mat (optional – but recommended!)

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by setting up your workspace. Lay out a beading mat to prevent beads from rolling away. Ensure all materials are within reach for a seamless knotting process.
2. Thread the Needle: Thread your needle with the desired length of silk thread or bead cord. Leave a tail of a few inches to be incorporated into the finishing knots later. Our cards of silk have a handy needle attached to each thread, so you can skip this step if using Griffin Bead Silk.
3. Add the First Pearl: Slide a pearl onto the threaded needle, allowing it to rest against the end of the thread.
4. Create the First Knot: Hold the pearl in place with your fingers and use the Pearl Knotting Tweezers to grasp the thread above the pearl. Gently pull the thread through, creating a small loop between the pearl and the tweezers. This loop will become the knot.
5. Tighten the Knot: While still holding the loop with the tweezers, pull the thread tight with your other hand to secure the knot snugly against the pearl. Ensure the knot is tight but not too tight, allowing a small space between the pearl and the knot.
6. Add Subsequent Pearls: Continue adding pearls in the desired pattern, repeating the knotting process after each pearl. Maintain consistent spacing between knots for a professional finish.
7. Finishing Knots: When you reach the desired length, create a finishing knot. Use the tweezers to create a loop as you did with the individual knots, passing the needle through the loop and pulling it tight against the last pearl.
8. Secure the Thread: To secure the thread, create additional knots or use a dab of clear nail polish or glue on the finishing knot. Trim any excess thread, leaving a clean and polished appearance.
9. Attach Clasp (Optional): If creating jewellery, attach a clasp and jump ring to the ends using additional knots or crimps for a secure closure.
10. Admire Your Creation: Once you’ve completed these steps, take a moment to admire your beautifully knotted pearl jewellery. The precision achieved with the Pearl Knotting Tweezers adds a professional touch to your creations, making them ready to be showcased or gifted with pride.

Unleash Creativity: Kumihimo Braiding Disc

Traditional Japanese Braiding for a Unique Touch

Kumihimo braiding, a cherished Japanese tradition, is an ancient art that involves skilfully intertwining multiple threads to create exquisite cords. Originating during the Nara period, Kumihimo was initially functional, serving purposes like securing armour and tying kimonos. Over time, it transformed into a decorative craft admired for its aesthetic versatility.

Central to Kumihimo is the meticulous arrangement of threads on a braiding tool, with braiding discs being a modern adaptation. These discs offer a structured platform, simplifying the process for artisans and expanding the craft’s accessibility. The round braid, a fundamental Kumihimo pattern, serves as a base for more intricate designs.

Today, Kumihimo transcends borders, appreciated globally for its beauty and versatility. The introduction of braiding discs has made this ancient art more approachable, allowing a diverse audience to engage in the captivating interplay of tradition and creativity. As enthusiasts explore Kumihimo with these modern tools, they contribute to a legacy that seamlessly weaves threads of cultural heritage and contemporary expression.

Conclusion: Expand Your Horizons

In conclusion, the Bead Smith Pearl Knotting Tool, Pearl Knotting Tweezers, and Kumihimo Braiding Disc are indispensable tools for artisans seeking precision, elegance, and cultural richness in their beadwork. Whether you’re mastering flawless knots, achieving precision with tweezers, or adding a unique touch with Kumihimo braiding, these tools are crafted to enhance your creativity and elevate your beadwork projects to new heights. Unleash your artistic potential with the Bead Smith toolkit and embark on a beadwork journey filled with precision and beauty.