Jan 27 2012

How Can You Use Beads As Buttons?

Just a few of the questions need to be answered when thinking about using beads in place of buttons. How can you possibly use beads for buttons and expect them to remain in the button hole? There’s no shank, the bead is too large, and how are you able to attach it? The things beads can be used for go far beyond bead bracelets and necklaces, as you will come to learn.

The first thing you have to learn is which type beads you are able to sew on like a button with no problem and which beads you have to make shanks for before you are able to sew them on. The second thing you should learn is that you shouldn’t make your button hole as large as you would for a button.

Beads such as pony beads, pearls, small glass or wooden beads up to about 5mm or 6mm do not pose a problem regardless of being round or square. The bead is sewn on in the same fashion as a button with the button hole just a little bit smaller than you would typicallyuse.

Beads like the large 8mm to 12mm lamp work beads or enameled beads should have a shank added. You also need to fasten shanks to odd shaped beads such as cylinders, triangles, hearts, fish or teapots. Yes, there are actually glass beads shaped like fish and teapots that have been used in this process. There are two methods that many people like to use.

The first method permits the bead to hand. You can improvise a metal shank, by using a heavy wire through the bead with a stop at the bottom of the bead and creating a loop at the top. The other method is to make a woven shank using heavy thread. This adds a nice professional touch that will also raise the bead slightly away from the garment.

Is there something more you would like to learn about beads or bead bracelets? Come to Novobeads.com to check out great, American made products that are fully compatible with all major bead bracelet brands!

Jan 27 2012

The Different Types of Beads in Bead Bracelets

The new trend in jewelry these days are bead bracelets. They are great for displaying your own personal style in addition to just wearing something attractive. There are a number of different alternatives in choosing the beads to go with your bead bracelet. The three most popular choices are glass, metal, and plastic, and all have their advantages and disadvantages.

Glass beads provide a glimmering beauty that the other beads simply can’t. They look pretty and expensive, and really catch your eye in a way that the other materials can’t. Their one major downfall, however, is that glass beads can be easily broken. These beads can be prone to shattering, which makes them better for bead bracelets that will only be worn for special occasions and not for everyday use.

Metal beads provide a great option to beads that break easily, like glass. They are sturdy enough to wear everyday, which is ideal for the individual who wants to have on their bead bracelet on a daily basis. But while they are sturdy, metal beads may not be for everyone, since they do not have the same beauty and appeal as glass beads do. Many people may choose glass beads over metal for this one attribute.

Plastic beads are another alternative for beads on bead bracelets. Also tough like the metal beads, plastic beads are also great for daily use. Plastic beads also are a much cheaper option than both glass and metal beads, which is great for the person who doesn’t have much money to spend on their beads. Their main downside, however, is that that they are probably are visually the least appealing of all the bead types. Plastic does not have the same beauty that glass or even metal has, which again, makes them an option that isn’t for everyone.

Bead bracelets are a unique option for jewelry, as you can present them in any way that you wish with any beads you like. While every different bead material has its pros and cons, you can mix and match materials, or just stick to the one that suits your likes and preferences the best. That’s what makes wearing bead bracelets fun-the opportunity to adorn and display the bracelet as you chose.

Is there anything more you would like to learn about beads or bead bracelets? go to Novobeads.com to check out great, American made products that are fully compatible with all major bead bracelet brands!

Jan 27 2012

Visiting the Best Jewelry Stores in Los Angeles

The city of Los Angeles has long been known for the entertainment industry, celebs and of course the glitz and glam that comes along with that. This may be one reason why you can find so many amazing jewelry stores in this city. After all, this is a place of glitz and you cannot have glitz without some serious sparkle. So where should you go if you want to see some amazing jewels?

Most towns in America don’t have the kind of jewelry you easily find in Los Angeles. There are some pieces here that cost several $$ million. Now that is some serious bling bling!

If you want to buy some gorgeous jewels that have perhaps walked the red carpet, head over to Melrose Avenue. Melrose is one of the most popular and hip areas to shop in LA. You can find some great stores and huge diamonds to take home.

Once you have graced the streets of Melrose ave, there are two other areas I highly suggest you see. Beverly Hills would be an obvious choice.This is one of the most expensive and luxurious places on earth. Take a full day to see this beautiful community and its decadent shops.

You are certain to find some amazing shops with stuff so beautiful and so over the top (and pricey) too that your head will be spinning. And as if that was not enough, one other area you cannot skip is Hollywood.

Ah yes, the very famous Hollywood. Here, whether you are looking for jewelry or just people watch some “unique” persons, you are sure to have a blast and find everything you are looking for. The best thing about these three areas mentioned here in this article is that they are all very close to each other. Technically, you could sight see for jewelry in all 3 in one day, but I personally advice to do 1 per day. Just so you are able to really take it all in. Hopefully when you go home you still have money.

If you are looking for awesome jewelry stores in Los Angeles, check out this place which carries amazing wedding rings.