The world of needlework is so multifaceted and diverse that sometimes you can’t decide which technique to choose. After all, almost every variety requires skills, perseverance, and free time. And a lot of money is spent on consumables. But all these conventions pale in comparison to the finished work, which not only pleases the eye, but also solves the problem of the age-old question: what to give? Beads have become especially popular lately. It is considered one of the most popular materials for needlework. And before you start working with it, it is important to understand what it is.
Beads and everything about it
Let's start with the name. Beads are usually called tiny multi-colored beads of different shapes (usually round) with a hole inside. But only those who speak Russian call it this word. The British call this material in two words - seed bead, which translated sounds like "small beads". As for the origin of our name, it most likely came from the Old Church Slavonic language, in which the word "bisir" called natural pearls.
Production
Both in the past and now, beads are made from glass; only the technology has changed. Previously, quartz sand, limestone and soda ash were used to produce glass melt. They were poured into thick-walled pots, which were then placed on the fire. Under the influence of heat, the “ingredients” became heated and gradually turned into a viscous mass. Threads were wound from it onto a thin rod, which were left untouched until the mass completely hardened or lowered into cold water. As they cooled, the threads narrowed and hardened, jumping off the rod without any problems.
Modern manufacturing is a mad race to modernize equipment and speed up the manufacturing process. The secrets of creating the perfect glass mass are kept under seven locks. However, the general features are still known. Each existing bead production workshop contains:
- ovens with heating temperatures up to 1.5 thousand degrees;
- devices for drawing tubes from flexible hot glass;
- units that make internal cavities;
- grinding machines;
- grinding drums;
- installations for melting the edges of beads.
Interesting! Coloring occurs by adding pigment to the glass melt.
Thanks to the modernization of production, beads have now become widespread and accessible to all segments of the population.
World brands
Today you can find many manufacturers whose products cannot boast of excellent quality. The material is much cheaper, but it is practically impossible to use it for needlework.After all, what are beads? This is primarily a material that is intended for creating jewelry, embroidery and other high quality products.
Therefore, the greatest demand is still for goods produced by the following companies:
- Miyuki (Japan). It is considered one of the oldest companies. The beads it produces are distinguished by their perfectly even and durable color, correct shape and light weight. However, not everyone will be able to purchase such material: it is very expensive. Among needlewomen it is even called “jewelry”.
- TONO (Japan). Another high-end oriental product. TONO beads are made of durable glass, which reduces the risk of cracks to a minimum. In addition, the beads are perfectly smooth inside, they do not tear or fray the threads. All beads from this manufacturer are perfectly calibrated and painted in rich and deep colors. The tone map is updated annually.
- MATSONO (China). It is not made from the most expensive materials, so the quality leaves much to be desired. This product cannot be used for embroidering pictures. But Chinese beads have quite a few shades, some are even considered unique in their kind.
- Preciosa (Czech Republic). It is considered the best, which is understandable. Manufacturers have a special “recipe” that allows them to create a strong, hard and wear-resistant product.
Interesting! What are microbeads? This is the name for a new hobby, which is radically different from the techniques everyone is used to. Essentially, these are beads that have no holes. They are used to decorate Christmas tree decorations, masquerade costumes, paintings, and appliqués.
Today, beads are used to make many beautiful and useful products. The material is easy to find at any craft store.
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